Oostvaardersplassen
Region
Europe
Country
Netherlands
Flyway
East Atlantic flyway
Initiative
Migratory Birds for People
About
The reserve covers 6000 ha, with a variety of habitats including: marshes, grasslands / grazing by large herbivores and geese. We run many activities such as theme-excursions, exhibitions, GPS-trails, photo-safaris, and have around 45,000 visitors per year. The site is situated in the polder Flevoland (in the middle of the Netherlands).
Funding support: Ministry for Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.
Number of staff: 2.5 (to be increased in 2012)
Description of the centre
The reserve covers 6000 ha, with a variety of habitats including: marshes, grasslands / grazing by large herbivores and geese. We run many activities such as theme-excursions, exhibitions, GPS-trails, photo-safaris, and have around 45,000 visitors per year.
The site is situated in the polder Flevoland (in the middle of the Netherlands).
Work Areas
Main CEPA work areas
Primary schools have programs in the centre, with other (higher education levels) provided by wardens and regional staff. We also run special activities for children. A group of 25 volunteers works regularly on the site.
Top three successes
Cooperation with Vogelbescherming Nederland (Society for the protection of birds NL) and SOVON (Bird research NL) organising the annual “Bird festival”.
School project often followed by visits with parents.
Top three challenges
“Theme -days” attract only few interested people : in general intensive preparations, followed by minor success rate.
Other information
Staatsbosbeheer is preparing the realisation of a new visitor centre which will be opened in 2012. This centre will be the gateway to a spectacular 15,000 hectare nature and recreation area in Flevoland. Information and education are key, as are the collection and exchange of knowledge.
Expertise
Interpretation techniques
Creating signage / site information; Producing written materials; Using audio-visual tools; Developing nature trails
Visitor centres
Setting up a new visitor centre; Managing / creating habitat; Running a visitor centre; Building / maintaining structures
Participation
Working with disabled people; Engaging young people; Engaging the local community; Working with volunteers
Education and communication
Early years education; Delivering adult education; Working with primary schools; working with secondary schools; Developing resources / materials
General
Auditing / assessing effectiveness; PR and marketing; Running effective administration; Health and safety; project planning
Contact
Mrs. Wenda Kloen (manager visitor centre)
Address: Kitsweg 1 (near Knardijk / railway viaduct),
8218 AA Lelystad,
+31-320-254585
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