Although the project has been on hold, nature is thriving. Therefore, starting February 2025, small-scale nature maintenance will occur around ponds in Groessen and fields in Angeren.
Maintenance is adjusted to the needs of local flora and fauna, explains Victor Loehr, an ecologist at Rijkswaterstaat involved in the ViA15 project. We perform maintenance in phases, minimizing impact on wildlife. This requires expertise, and we collaborate with Waardenburg Ecology.
Habitat for Rare Water Creatures
In Groessen, ponds created during the Betuweroute construction unexpectedly house rare branchiopods. These creatures are now found only in a few locations in the Netherlands, says Loehr.
Various salamanders, frogs, and toads also inhabit the area. However, overgrown willows cast too much shade, affecting these sun-loving animals and water quality. We trim the vegetation to address this.
Restoration of Farmland Landscape
Across the Pannerdensch Kanaal, in Angeren, efforts focus on preserving unique plant species on an old farmland. Here, rare spurges thrive, once common in traditional farming landscapes.
These species flourish on less intensively used fields, allowing other plants to coexist, Loehr explains. With the field abandoned, grasses and willows are encroaching. Well plow and replant with wheat, as done historically.
Second Life
Maintenance is conducted on a small scale. Loehr: The first phase occurs in early February 2025, before amphibians awaken and birds nest. In late spring, we work on branchiopod ponds during their dormant period. Autumn work aligns with amphibian mobility post-breeding.
Leftover pruning material is repurposed to enhance landscape diversity. For example, a branch pile can attract insects, benefiting other species, adds Loehr.
Nature-Inclusive Approach
This maintenance is part of the broader ViA15 project strategy. We are building a road with great care for people and nature, he emphasizes. Design includes bat bunkers in bridge piers and extends pond networks, not to compensate for loss, but to boost biodiversity, making ViA15 more than just an infrastructure project.