Rewilding along the Meuse
In Maaswinkel, rewilding is practiced: letting nature develop as freely as possible with minimal human intervention, guided by a limited number of grazers. Scottish Galloway cattle and Polish Konik horses provide year-round grazing. This type of land management, also known as extensive grazing, keeps the landscape open and dynamic while promoting biodiversity.
While rewilding has long been established in the Netherlands, in Flanders it is almost exclusively applied along the Meuse. Maaswinkel, managed by Natuurpunt Maasmechelen, is a pioneer in this field. The reserve has two zones: Maesbempder Greend in the north near Leut, where rewilding has been practiced for over 20 years, and the southern pond and scrub area near Geneuth, where grazing with free-roaming animals was introduced this summer.
The Role of the Cowboys
The team of six cowboys and two cowgirls comes from Maasmechelen and volunteers their time. Their tasks range from checking fences and monitoring the animals to assisting with special events such as births or evacuations during floods.
Beyond these practical responsibilities, the volunteers also experience the beauty of the area: peace, quiet, and the unexpected wonders of nature. “It’s precisely this combination of calm nature experiences and exciting interventions that makes the work so special,” they say.
Indispensable Support
The cowboys contribute in a unique way to nature restoration and conservation in the Meuse region. Thanks to their efforts, the nature in Maaswinkel can grow stronger and more resilient.
Those interested in learning more or contributing to this rewilding initiative can contact Bertie Vanderlee, conservator of Maaswinkel nature reserve.
