Boskalis Nederland, together with Rijkswaterstaat, the Province of Zeeland and Natuurmonumenten, launched the sand nourishment operations for the Galgeplaat and Slikken van den Dortsman today.
The construction of the Oosterschelde storm surge barrier has reduced the natural supply of sand. As a result, sandbanks, mudflats and salt marshes are gradually subsiding.
"Through this initiative, we are working to preserve a unique natural area while enhancing the habitat for countless bird and animal species," Boskalis said. "By depositing approximately 2.6 million cubic meters of sand across seven locations, we are helping the Galgeplaat and Slikken van den Dortsman maintain their vital role as foraging and resting grounds."
Using equipment such as the trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) Freeway, the crews are placing sand sourced from shipping channel maintenance and a designated sand extraction area.
According to Boskalis, this ensures that birds like oystercatchers, curlews and bar-tailed godwits will continue to have sufficient time and space to forage in the coming decades, while seals can keep resting on the sandbanks exposed at low tide.
Work started this month and is projected to conclude around March 2027.