Rijkswaterstaat has been working for some time on a stronger ecological Maas. In the Genderensche floodplain near Genderen and the Capelsche floodplain near Waalwijk, the construction of sheltered bank channels is on the agenda. The final project decision for these measures has now been established and is available for inspection one last time.
Over the years, human intervention has greatly changed the Maas landscape, putting aquatic life under pressure. The new channels are intended to provide additional habitat for fish and small aquatic animals. These measures are in line with the Water Framework Directive, which aims to improve and protect the quality of surface water in Europe.
Resilient River
In the Bergsche Maas, there is still some influence of ebb and flow. The water level fluctuates daily by 20-30 cm. Therefore, there are opportunities to expand nature associated with freshwater tidal water.
A river with a great variety of plants and animals is better able to withstand disturbances such as climate change and pollution. Biodiversity is a sign of a healthy river. When flora and fauna are well balanced, it is also an indication that the chemical quality is in order. Aquatic life often shows how healthy a river is.
What Will Happen?
- Bank Zone Genderensche floodplain (municipality of Altena): southwest of Genderen, a 1.6 km long bank channel will be constructed behind the Maas bank, parallel to the river. The channel contains gently flowing water and connects both upstream and downstream to the river. Openings for fish migration and water exchange will be created in the forebank. Reeds will also be planted.
- Reorganization Capelsche floodplain (municipality of Waalwijk): northwest of Waalwijk, sheltered bank channels will also be constructed on both sides of the drainage channel behind the Maas bank, over a total length of 2.5 km.
Reeds and trees will be planted along the floodplain for shading. In the western part, an additional tidal channel of 1.4 km will be created, which only connects downstream with the river. A floodplain will also be set up here.
Project Decision Available for Inspection
The draft project decision was available for inspection from December 4, 2024, to January 14, 2025. Seven views were submitted. The response note explains how these were handled. The response note is an annex to the final Project Decision, which is now available online for inspection until Tuesday, May 20, 2025, on the website Platform Participation.
During this period, an appeal can be made to the Council of State. More information about the appeal procedure is available on the website.
The documents can also be viewed at the Rijkswaterstaat office in Den Bosch (Magistratenlaan 82). An appointment can be made via 088-7974300.
Want to Know More or Have Questions?
About the appeal procedure: contact the Participation Directorate of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management via 070-456 96 07.
About the measures: call Rijkswaterstaat for free at 0800-8002 or visit the website Working Together on River Nature (Maas page).