The Province of South Holland has allocated over 1 million euros to Staatsbosbeheer for nature development in the Otter Polder. This polder, approximately 65 hectares in size, is located in the Natura 2000 area of the Biesbosch and is only accessible by boat.

This area is about the size of 130 football fields. “The Otter Polder will truly become a beautiful nature area. Due to its location, rare nature can develop undisturbed here. Thus, we create a unique nature area where rare protected animal species can feel at home and can grow and thrive,” says Deputy Berend Potjer of Nature.

Suitable Habitat

The Otter Polder will largely be designed with the nature type dynamic marsh. Additionally, there is also space for grassland that can flood during wet periods. The new nature is a suitable habitat for (rare) species such as the bittern, brown harrier, and migratory fish.

Quality Impulse

With the design of the Otter Polder, the Biesbosch, which is the largest freshwater tidal area in Europe, will receive a quality impulse. The historical polder land consolidation and cultural historical elements, including the old sluice gate, will largely be preserved. Preparations for the design of the Otter Polder will start this year. The execution work is expected to begin in the second half of 2026.