How a unique Terschelling nature reserve is regaining its dynamism

We cannot prevent the release of nitrogen during the work. However, the work on the Boschplaat is carried out as sustainably as possible.

A wash-over is a natural feature of Wadden Islands. It is a passage in the row of dunes through which the sea can flow during storm surges. A kind of natural 'valve' from the dunes. Seawater then flows across the Boschplaat, from the North Sea to the Wadden Sea and vice versa. The water contains a lot of sand and silt, which is deposited on the salt marsh during the flood. After one storm, several centimetres of silt can remain in some places. In addition, old plant remains are removed and new opportunities are created for salt marsh plants and breeding birds. This natural 'reset' therefore leads to an increase and rejuvenation: in this way, nature itself ensures that the Boschplaat grows with it and is more resistant to climate change and sea level rise.

The Boschplaat will remain accessible via the beach during the work. However, the path along the Stuifdijk can be temporarily (partially) closed as long as the work lasts.

This is currently unknown. The way of working is currently being further developed, after which it will become clear how much nitrogen is released during the work.

The Boschplaat in its current form was created by man. When the dynamics in the area came to a standstill, the elevation of the area also stopped. However, sea level rise is faster than rising. The Boschplaat could therefore 'drown' and inundate breeding grounds. To prevent this, we are bringing back the natural dynamics in the area.