For the first time in the history of the province of Flevoland – a history that is still very young – a large area of land is changing its function. Oostvaardersland will be a new 15,000 hectares nature reserve and recreational area.

Rich diversity of flora and fauna

Oostvaardersland is being designed as a delta area with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Water and gradual transitions between wet and dry areas are central to this design. Two wide stretches of water bisect the area lengthways, between which there is a profusion of reeds and grass, with small patches of bushes and woodland. The edges of Oostvaardersland will be heavily wooded. 

Great many species

Oostvaardersland will also be home to a great many species of plants and animals that are rare in the Netherlands, such as otters, beavers, pine martens, butterflies, toads and newts. Also large grazing animals such as konik horses, heck cattle and red deer will be free to range.

Location of the area

Oostvaardersland is located in the centre of the Netherlands only 40 miles from Amsterdam and is a project that will create many opportunities. The area will be a stimulus for quality improvement, competitiveness and welfare for the entire region. It is up to the government and market parties to exploit these opportunities. Oostvaardersland is created by connecting the Oostvaardersplassen, a young nature reserve, to the Horsterwold, the biggest deciduous forest in the Netherlands.

Oostvaardersland to be completed in 2014

It has been agreed with the Ministry of Nature, Agriculture and Food Quality that the Oostvaardersland area will be completed in 2014.  All of this has been achieved in a very short period thanks to close cooperation between the municipalities of Almere, Lelystad and Zeewolde, the Zuiderzeeland water board, the Province of Flevoland, the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Nature, Agriculture and Food Quality .