Northern Groningen farmers receive support to boost greenery and biodiversity
Farmers in Northern Groningen can now access subsidies and workshops to plant trees and shrubs, enhancing biodiversity and climate resilience. The initiative aims to add 75 hectares of greenery annually, benefiting both wildlife and local communities.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Mooi Heem |
| Region | Northern Groningen (Appingedam, Het Hogeland, Eemsdelta) |
| Annual Greenery Goal | 1% increase in trees (~75 hectares) |
| Participants (2022-2026) | 185 farm owners |
| Trees Planted (2022-2026) | Over 800 trees |
| Shrubs Planted (2022-2026) | 13,000 shrubs |
| Workshop Dates | Early May and October |
| Funding Sources | Province of Groningen, Eemsdelta, Het Hogeland municipalities |
| Project Organizer | Wierde & Dijk |
The province of Groningen plays a key role in environmental and agricultural policy, supporting initiatives like Mooi Heem to promote sustainability and biodiversity. Wierde & Dijk, an agricultural nature association, collaborates with local governments to implement these projects, offering practical support to farmers and citizens.
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New planting on farms in Northern Groningen
In the coming years, owners of (farms) in Northern Groningen can again receive support for planting trees and shrubs on their land. The start of the second part of the 'Mooi Heem' project took place on Friday, March 6, on a farm in Appingedam. Deputy Leo Wenneger planted an apple tree and a maple tree there, together with aldermen from Het Hogeland and Eemsdelta.
Photo: Otto Kalkhoven
The province aims to increase the number of trees by one percent each year, which is about 75 hectares of additional greenery. Trees and shrubs contribute to biodiversity, the climate, and a pleasant living environment. Therefore, governments and organizations throughout the province are working on new planting, such as forests, tree lanes, and hedgerows.
Inspiration and support
With the Mooi Heem project, Wierde & Dijk supports farmers and citizens in greening their farm. The agricultural nature association, among other things, gives workshops and organizes lectures and excursions along green farms. Wierde & Dijk encourages native trees and shrubs that have been native to Northern Groningen for centuries. This planting attracts birds, wild bees, butterflies, and other animals. In the first part of Mooi Heem, which started in 2022, 185 farm owners participated. On their farms, they planted more than 800 trees and 13,000 shrubs.
Workshops
An important part of Mooi Heem are the workshops. During a workshop, participants receive theory and practical lessons, personal farm advice on the farm, and a subsidy for the purchase of trees and shrubs. New workshops will take place in early May and October.
Contributions
The Mooi Heem project has been made possible financially thanks to contributions from the province of Groningen, the municipality of Eemsdelta, and the municipality of Het Hogeland.
For more information, visit www.wierde-en-dijk.nl.