Landscape biography Kennemerland South

Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, known for its dunes, forests and estates, is one of the most valuable areas in the Netherlands. To ensure the future resilience of the area, the NP is working to strengthen the dune ecosystem and ecological connections, but also to strengthen the social connection with the region and make the green area recognisable and experienceable for visitors.

Smartland composed a Landscape Biography and LESA (Landscape Ecological and Socio-Cultural Analysis) with the cooperation partners. We looked beyond the current boundaries of the park, in line with the vision for National Parks New Style.

In an accessible way, the biography tells the story of the NP and its surroundings through time, paying close attention to the changing relationship between people and landscape. It covers the biotic and abiotic factors that made the green space what it is today - from its genesis, the functioning of the soil and water system and its ecological richness, to its human use as habitation, mineral extraction, agriculture and industry. It also covers the area's defence history and recreational development.

The Landscape Biography also serves as a basis for informed future decision-making on climate resilience and sustainable development with a balance between nature and culture.

Location: Kennemerland South, NL

Type: Research, landscape biography

Status: Finished

Client: PWN

Participation: Experts, stakeholders

Team: Smartland, OAK Consultants, Bureau Lantschap