Shimmering expanses of water invite stories of nature’s resilience. The Markermeer and IJmeer form a vital part of the Amsterdam metropolitan area. They offer an essential conservation and recreation area right on the city’s doorstep. This area spans almost 80000 hectares.
The Markermeer-IJmeer is a freshwater lake. It is important for fish and birds. Millions of people from the Amsterdam metropolitan region enjoy it. The east side is recognizable by the straight coastline of Flevoland. The west side features the historic Zuiderzee places.
However, the construction of the Houtribdijk between Enkhuizen and Lelystad has had consequences. Since 1976, the water contains a lot of silt and little food. This impacts the natural environment. The water quality does not meet the Natura 2000 goals. Bird, fish, and plant populations have declined in number and variety.
The Dutch government, provinces, other authorities, and social organizations are working to strengthen nature. They strive to make it future-proof. The goal is to make the nature in the Markermeer and IJmeer more resilient. This will help to cope with future climate changes. It will also enable developments such as housing construction and expansion. This includes water recreation and infrastructure in and around this natural area.
A vision has been created to transform the Markermeer-IJmeer into a future-proof ecological system. Investments in nature and landscape ensure that the Markermeer-IJmeer remains valuable for both people and nature. The Markermeer and IJmeer are valuable for humans and nature. The area is important for the survival of various protected bird species. It is a designated special protection zone under the Birds Directive. It is also an internationally recognized wetland area and a Natura 2000 area.
For decades, the Markermeer was reserved for the completion of the Zuiderzee Works. The intended construction of the Markerwaard polder never happened. The water in the Markermeer and IJmeer is cut off from the IJsselmeer. This is due to the construction of the Houtribdijk between Enkhuizen and Lelystad in 1976. Therefore, it contains a lot of silt and little food. The water quality of the Markermeer and IJmeer does not meet established goals. Birds, fish and plants have decreased in number and variety. That is why governments are committed to strengthening nature.
A vital Markermeer-IJmeer contributes to an attractive business climate. It is a precondition for economic development around the Markermeer-IJmeer. This includes the IJmeer connection. Together with the national government, the province of North Holland, and the municipalities. Also, the water boards of Zuiderzeeland and North Holland’s Noorderkwartier. The province of Flevoland is working on a Future-proof Ecological System.
The province of Flevoland contributed to the realization of the first phase of Marker Wadden. These nature islands create a varied underwater landscape. Zones of clear water benefit fish and birds. Marker Wadden is one of the icons of National Park Nieuw Land. The construction of Marker Wadden and the Oostvaardersoevers project are examples of innovative solutions.
The Markermeer and IJmeer face significant challenges. Yet, these waters remain a testament to the ongoing efforts. These efforts aim to balance human needs and environmental preservation. The future of this dynamic area depends on proactive and development-oriented policies. They require a renewed legal approach to conservation projects.