Design Research Marker Wadden Plus

With the Marker Wadden Plus plan, Natuurmonumenten and Markerzand aim to expand the Marker Wadden nature islands and strengthen the current coastline. Smartland explored this next phase. The goal is to develop a plan that optimally combines sand extraction and nature development and contributes positively to the ecological system of the Markermeer. This is a compelling interdisciplinary project, in which we collaborated with experts in geotechnics, ecology and morphodynamics.

The design research is based on principles that allowed us to define search areas for sand extraction and building blocks for nature development:

• Creation of an ecologically functioning underwater landscape with water flow;

• Site selection for sand extraction based on maximum sand yield combined with positive effects on the ecosystem;

• Construction of more land-water transitions in the form of wetlands, shallow water, and pioneer habitats;

• Protection of the current sandy island edges, which have proven to be more vulnerable than initially estimated;

• Utilisation of natural processes, as in the construction of the first phase of Marker Wadden.

Smartland developed three design alternatives: North, East and South, each with its own strengths and opportunities for synergy, particularly for recreation. The study will serve as input for the Environmental Impact Assessment (MER). If the outcome is positive, Natuurmonumenten and Markerzand aim to conclude a long-term collaboration agreement to implement the plan.

Read more about this project here: https://www.natuurmonumenten.nl/natuurgebieden/marker-wadden/nieuws/marker-wadden-plus-toekomstbestendig-maken-natuureilanden-en

And here: https://zeepost.info/natuurmonumenten-zint-op-uitbreiding-marker-wadden/

Location: Marker Wadden, NL

Type: Design research

Client: Natuurmonumenten, Markerzand

Participation: Deltares, Eemu Ecologisch Advies, Lowland Eco. Network, UvA, WUR

Team: Smartland