Community college students are contributing ideas about the polders and the green eastern outskirts of Wassenaar

The Papenwegse and Zuidwijksche polders together form a valuable green area on the eastern side of Wassenaar. However, the area is under pressure due to climate change and declining biodiversity. The municipality of Wassenaar is collaborating with the Twickel Foundation on the development of a spatial plan for these polders and the green eastern edge of Wassenaar. The Twickel Foundation, based in Twente, is an organization that owns historic estates and various polders in Wassenaar and manages them in partnership with local farmers. The program involves making decisions regarding the balance between nature, recreation, and agriculture, with the preservation of the cultural-historical landscape as the guiding principle.

Student research as valuable input

Both parties are collaborating on this project with local students, who bring fresh ideas from a youth perspective. As part of InHolland University of Applied Sciences’ Coast project, students in the Landscape and Environment Management bachelor’s program are studying the polders. They are identifying opportunities for greater biodiversity, additional habitat for meadow birds, improved recreational connections, and more sustainable agriculture, and are developing these into concrete recommendations for the area.

Action plan discussed at De Paauw Town Hall

On Friday, March 13, the students presented their action plan and initial findings at De Paauw Town Hall. Wim Koetsier, Alderman , Mobility, and Sustainability, was in attendance and listened with great interest to their analysis and ideas.

First step toward a future-proof polder region

The Alderman involved Alderman the importance of collaborating with InHolland: “These students are from our own region and know the area well. Combined with their specialized training and fresh perspective, they can propose surprising and innovative solutions. This discussion was a wonderful and inspiring first step in our joint exploration of a future-proof polder area. Their findings can also provide important input for the area program, which is being developed in collaboration with stakeholders, including residents of Wassenaar. And besides, it’s just great to work with young people and give them a voice in the development of this area. I also think it’s wonderful that Wassenaar is offering this opportunity to college students.”

The grant makes implementation possible

For this project, the municipality applied for and received a grant under the South Holland Provincial Rural Area Program. As a result, funds have been set aside for measures that can effectively strengthen these polder areas.