The Province of Drenthe has given the go-ahead for the work on Buffer South near Nieuw-Schoonebeek. This project focuses on restoring the peat bog in Bargerveen and creating a future-proof rural area. By developing nature, water, and agriculture together, the area becomes stronger, more resilient, and better able to withstand drought and climate change.
Restoration of Peat Bog and Balance with the Environment
Buffer South is a buffer zone of approximately 220 hectares on the southern side of Bargerveen. The peat bog in Bargerveen needs water to survive. Previously, dikes were constructed to separate the wet peat from the surrounding agricultural area. These dikes act like the edge of a bathtub: they keep the water in place so that sphagnum moss can continue to grow and farmers are not troubled by too high groundwater levels.
However, that is not enough. Water in the peat can flow away underground. Therefore, this water buffer is being created. Buffer South will be an area with a higher groundwater level that acts as a protective shield around the peat bog. The area provides counterpressure, keeping the water in the peat. At the same time, Buffer South captures rainwater during heavy showers and creates space for new nature, such as reed fields and special birds. There will also be space for recreation, such as walking and cycling. This way, the area is not only protected but also accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors.
Start of the Collaboration
The realization of Buffer South is the result of a long and careful process. Since 2015, there has been intensive cooperation with farmers and other stakeholders, including land swaps and land consolidation. This was impactful and demanded a lot from all parties. The willingness to seek solutions together shows the great involvement with the area. At the start of the work, volunteers and local organizations were involved, such as the Stichting Beek & Veen and other volunteers from Nieuw-Schoonebeek. Spoken word artist Eva Broekmann recited a poem during the kickoff moment.
Partners
Buffer South is part of the provincial Program Natuurlijk Platteland. In this program, the Province of Drenthe works with area partners on strong nature, good water management, and a vital countryside. The approach is area-oriented: challenges for nature, agriculture, water, and climate are combined so that functions reinforce each other and space remains for use and experience. The Province of Drenthe works in this project with the Bargerveen Schoonebeek administrative committee and partners Prolander, water board Vechtstromen, municipality of Emmen, Staatsbosbeheer, LTO, and Natuurpark Veenland.
Stichting Beek en Veen unveils a bench at the start of the Buffer South works, under the watchful eye of Nynke Houwing, chair of the Bargerveen-Schoonebeek Administrative Committee.