In the dunes near Monster and Ter Heijde, the municipality of Westland has started removing the shrub aster. This plant is known as an invasive exotic species that spreads rapidly and poses a threat to the native nature in the vulnerable dune area. The work is carried out in cooperation with the Province of South Holland and the NVWA.
Rapid spreader poses risk to biodiversity
The shrub aster is not native to the Netherlands and can spread very quickly. The species forms dense, impenetrable shrubs, displacing native plants (plants naturally occurring in this area). This means the shrub aster can have a significant impact on the nature in the dunes.
Approach: Uprooting and immediate protected removal
Removal work started on February 16. The plants are removed by hand or mechanically. The pulled plants are placed in sealable bags to prevent seed dispersal. The material is immediately removed to prevent further spread of seeds.
After removal, the soil is prepared for new native planting. Regular checks will be conducted in the coming years to see if the shrub aster regrows in the area. The shrub aster is known to have seeds in the soil from which new shoots can grow.
Part of a broader approach to invasive species
Combating exotics such as the shrub aster is one of the tasks the province undertakes to protect the biodiversity of South Holland. South Holland works together with managers and municipalities to ensure problem species like the shrub aster do not gain a permanent foothold. For more information about invasive exotics and the measures the province takes, please read the invasive exotics action plan (opens in new window).