Weerribben-Wieden National Park

[edit] The area is managed by the large private nature-conservation organisation Natuurmonumenten and by the Staatsbosbeheer (State Forest Service). Other parties are involved in management issues as well, such as local communities. About 1,000 hectares (2,500 acres) is still used for thatching reed production. Villages like the picturesque Giethoorn and monumental towns like Blokzijl and Vollenhove are important for tourism and recreation.

[edit] The vegetation and wildlife are typical for such an area, full of peat and water. Resident species include the water soldier, the sundew, the black tern, the northern pike and, recently, the otter. In addition, the Green Hawker and the Large Copper are found here.

[edit] Visitor centre De Weerribben in Ossenzijl Information centre of the national park in Kalenberg Visitor centre De Wieden in Sint Jansklooster Schoonewelle 'Centrum Natuur en Ambacht' in Zwartsluis

[edit] Weerribben-Wieden National Park Visitor Centre Ossenzijl from the riverside Weerribben Waterpump in the Weerribben Canoeist in the Weerribben