Realisation of new Dutch National Ecological Network - nature management by private landowners, 2000 - 2012

Shift in nature conservation policy and altered ecological objectives

In 2010, the Dutch government decided to transfer a number of tasks relating to spatial planning, the economy and nature conservation from the national government to provincial governments. This decision continued the trend towards decentralisation of nature and landscape policies from national to provincial authorities that had started a few decades ago. The national and provincial governments set out their new ambitions regarding the development and management of natural habitats in the Netherlands for the period until 2027 in a September 2013 covenant called Natuurpact. The Dutch name of the National Ecological Network (NEN) was changed to 'Natuurnetwerk Nederland' (NNN), reflecting a change in focus. In the Natuurpact covenant, the national and provincial governments and a large number of civil society parties agreed to collaborate to achieve rich and attractive natural habitats in the Netherlands that offer value to society. One of the ways to achieve this is by making existing natural areas less vulnerable. The target is now the acquisition and redevelopment of an additional 35,000 ha, and the realisation of natural corridors linking habitats. In addition, at least 80,000 ha of natural habitats are to be redeveloped over the period up to 2027. Although this implies that the specific target for nature management by private landowners has been abandoned, the instrument as such will continue to be used.

Slow realisation

Contracts for nature management schemes by private landowners concluded in 2011-2012 covered a total of about 50 hectares. The total area of land covered by such contracts had thereby risen to 6299 ha by 31 December 2012.