A group of poultry farmers around Gramsbergen is concerned about the planned increase in ‘wet’ nature in the municipality of Hardenberg. The farmers hope that the plans can still be adjusted. Water-rich nature attracts wild birds, which means there is an increased risk of the bird flu virus spreading.
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In Hardenberg, work is being done on the water-rich Vechtpark containing the project Baalder Floodplain. Wetlands are a place for wild birds to forage and rest. Because wild birds can get the avian flu virus to spread poultry farmers are not reassured.
There is currently an outbreak of avian flu in the Netherlands and various poultry farms have been cleared and the sector is subject to a housing obligation.
Adjust plans
“We are not against the construction of nature, don’t get us wrong. This is a signal. We express our concerns and hope that we will be included in the plans for Baalder Uiterwaard. So that the risk of avian flu in the region is reduced.” Paula Nijkamp is a board member of LTO Vechtdal and explains that in the current period of culling and business blockades poultry farmers are extra afraid of the construction of wet nature areas near chicken houses.
The Dutch Poultry Farmers’ Union has also expressed concerns about the development of wetland nature. The costs incurred after bird flu are diagnosed are high. Aalt den Herder of the NVP wants to consult with the municipality about the practical details and possible financial consequences for the outbreak of bird flu.
“We prefer to say that we do not develop wet nature near poultry farms, but if that is not possible; what can you do about extra policy if you are going to realize wet nature, extra monitoring, intervention to limit risk, prevention around companies. Together with experts and research data, let us look for tailor-made solutions within the area. “
To care
Poultry farmer Dennis Wenker showed the municipal policy that of the 54 poultry farms, the majority are located within the ten-kilometer zone of Baalder Uiterwaard. Suppose bird flu is diagnosed in the area, dozens of companies are being cleared and exports come to a standstill.
Wenker says that the financial consequences are then very great. He believes that the established companies should be hindered as little as possible by the development of new wetlands and hopes that the concerns of the farmers will be taken seriously.
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