On 2025-07-10 14:50:00, the city of Antwerp unveiled an innovative ecological mowing project to protect biodiversity at the Citadelpark. The initiative focuses on controlling dominant plants, such as rapidly growing oak saplings, to preserve a diverse plant ecosystem. This approach highlights the city’s commitment to sustainable urban nature management.
- Stad zoekt ecologische maaimethode voor diversiteit
- Dominante planten zoals eikjes worden beperkt
- Schepen Miet Dirix benadrukt biodiversiteit belang
- Herder Natasja Saenen inzet kudde
- Kudde helpt natuurlijke vegetatiebeheer op citadel
- Doel is meer ruimte voor plantendiversiteit
Schepen Miet Dirix from Groen explained that the city sought an environmentally friendly way to maintain the park’s greenery. Instead of traditional mowing, Antwerp partnered with local shepherd Natasja Saenen and her herd to naturally manage the vegetation. This method not only controls overgrowth but also supports local wildlife habitats.
How effective is grazing compared to mechanical mowing? Can this traditional practice become a model for other Belgian cities aiming to balance urban development with nature conservation? The answers lie in the success of this ecological mowing experiment.
Using sheep to manage plant growth raises important questions about urban ecology and community involvement. This method:
- Reduces the need for chemical herbicides and heavy machinery
- Promotes a richer variety of plant species by limiting aggressive growth
- Supports local farmers and traditional practices within city limits
- Encourages public awareness of sustainable environmental solutions
As cities face growing environmental challenges, will more communities embrace ecological mowing? Antwerp’s initiative invites residents and policymakers alike to rethink how urban nature can thrive through innovative, sustainable practices.
