Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR) conducted research into how stakeholders experienced the creation of 2,250 hectares of new nature (Nature Network Netherlands) in the Krimpenerwaard. This research was carried out on behalf of the Province of South Holland, the municipality of Krimpenerwaard, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN).
The results are presented in the report “New nature in the polder: between self-realization and expropriation.” This report provides important insights for future area processes in rural areas. The research builds on the report “Three decades of nature realization in the Krimpenerwaard,” which was published in October 2024. That earlier report dealt with the use, functioning, and duration of various land instruments over the past 30 years.
The research shows that the creation of new nature and the Nature Network Netherlands (NNN) has had a significant impact on landowners and other stakeholders. Especially in the agricultural sector, there was years of uncertainty about the proposed nature development and its implementation. This caused uncertainty and tension.
Land acquisition instruments
To be able to use land for nature development, efforts were made on land exchange, offering compensatory land, and customized agreements for realizing nature objectives by the landowners themselves (self-realization). In almost all cases, attempts were first made to reach a voluntary solution in this way.
Expropriation is experienced by stakeholders as a heavy and intrusive measure. It was therefore only used when the other mentioned solutions did not work. Nevertheless, this instrument provided clarity and progress in a long and complicated process. Thanks to this approach, the goals for the Nature Network Netherlands and the Water Framework Directive could be met within the available time.
Earlier attempts with only voluntary sales and self-realization, realizing new nature on own land, did not yield sufficient results. At the same time, it remains important to keep talking, to consider personal and business interests, and to work on trust.
Valuable lessons for the future
The research shows that there is criticism of the process followed. At the same time, stakeholders appreciate the customization and support in self-realization. Searching for room within the rules and a flexible approach contribute to more understanding and acceptance, as long as clear and open preconditions are used in advance.
The report also emphasizes the importance of a single fixed point of contact, such as a case manager, and the deployment of a confidant. This helps with clear communication, mutual understanding, and mental support for both landowners and administrators and civil servants.
These lessons are valuable for future area processes. They provide starting points to further improve the approach and to limit the drastic, sometimes negative consequences as much as possible.
The full report ‘New nature in the polder: between self-realization and expropriation’ can be found on the publication website of Wageningen Environmental Research (opens in new window).