Drenthe students plant 16-hectare forest to boost biodiversity and community spirit
Sixty students in Hollandscheveld are transforming former farmland into a 16-hectare forest, enhancing local biodiversity and recreation. The project, backed by provincial subsidies and local partnerships, aims to create a greener, healthier future for Hoogeveen residents.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Hollandscheveld, Drenthe, connecting Schoonhoven and Elim |
| Size of Forest | 16 hectares (over 22 football fields) |
| Number of Students | 60 from Het Mozaïek and Het Hoeltien |
| Key Partners | Landgoed Hummelhof NSW B.V., Province of Drenthe, Municipality of Hoogeveen |
| Funding Source | Provincial subsidy scheme for forest expansion |
| Start Date | March 12, 2026 |
| Activities | Tree planting, nature education, guided walks |
The Province of Drenthe plays a key role in expanding forests and strengthening nature through subsidy schemes and partnerships with local initiatives. The Municipality of Hoogeveen supports such projects by providing permits, advice, and practical preparations to enhance the living environment.
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Students kick off new forest of over twenty-two football fields near Hollandscheveld
Sixty students from Het Mozaïek and Het Hoeltien will kick off a new sixteen-hectare forest near Hollandscheveld. On March 12, wearing boots, they will plant the first young trees in the ground on former agricultural plots. Over the coming years, a diverse forest will grow here, connecting to the existing green spaces in the area around Schoonhoven and Elim.
The initiative originated with local landowners and was developed further in collaboration. The project is a partnership between Landgoed Hummelhof NSW B.V., on behalf of the Hummel and Schonewille families, the Province of Drenthe, and the Municipality of Hoogeveen.
Tree Planting Day marks the visible start. Students will plant the first young trees and discover, through play, what a forest needs to grow. Nature activities are guided by IVN Natuureducatie, while Landschapsbeheer Drenthe assists the students with planting the trees.
From farmland to living environment
Where farmland once lay, a forest of native trees and shrubs will emerge. The new greenery will enhance biodiversity, help retain water during wet and dry periods, and provide space for recreation. Residents will also explore how they can gradually experience the area, for example via walking routes.
The forest’s creation is made possible in part by a provincial subsidy scheme aimed at expanding forests and strengthening nature in Drenthe. This supports landowners and local initiatives that contribute to more and more diverse forests. The municipality supports the initiative with permits, advice, and practical preparations.
Joint investment in the future
The new forest connects to the existing green spaces around Schoonhoven and Elim. The project demonstrates how private initiators and governments can work together to create a greener living environment.
Councillor Mark Tuit sees the start of planting as more than just the planting of trees. In his view, the project shows how collaboration and involvement come together in practice. “This forest begins with a shovel in the ground, but it’s about something bigger. It’s about taking joint responsibility for the place where we live. When children plant trees today, they’re not just growing a forest—they’re growing involvement. Step by step, we’re building a green, healthy future for Hoogeveen. Because whoever plants a tree cares about more than just themselves.”
The power of green
Green spaces are valuable not only for nature and the climate. They also contribute to health, social interaction, and physical activity. A green environment encourages people to go outside and makes the living environment more pleasant for current and future generations.