Genk – The heathlands of Genk, including Opglabbekerzavel, Schemmersberg, and Boxbergheide, are undergoing restoration with the support of €6.2 million; Environment Minister Jo Brouns commended the initiative for enhancing biodiversity and promoting sustainable ecological management, reports 24brussels.
The heathlands in Genk are recovering after extensive management efforts, as reported by VRT News. The city has focused on restoring the area by eliminating invasive plant species, reintroducing native flora, and implementing controlled grazing practices. The project has received €6.2 million in funding from the Flemish government, enabling the return of various wildlife, including birds, insects, and native plants.
Genk’s Ambitious €66.2M Heathland Restoration Plan
The restoration plan in Genk is set to expand to include Schemmersberg and Boxbergheide in addition to Opglabbekerzavel. This initiative has been underway for two years and aims to safeguard and enhance the natural quality of these areas.
A substantial portion of the €66.2 million allocated will focus on developing the Zwarte Berg ecovalley, a crucial corridor linking Mechelse Heide and the Houthalen-Helchteren Military Shooting Range.
The restoration strategy across the three heathland sites includes the large-scale removal of invasive tree species, such as the American Bird Cherry and Black Acacia, to revert the landscape to its native condition. Following the deforestation, regular maintenance will be conducted for 24 years with ongoing support from the Flemish government, which will provide annual funding of €66,000.
A previous heathland restoration effort was implemented in Genk at Opglabbekerzavel between 2018 and 2020, partially funded by the Flemish government. This initiative also focused on the large-scale removal of invasive tree species to restore the area’s native heathland.
