North Holland Invests 8 Million Euros in Natural Network Completion for 2025
Haarlem, Monday, 20 January 2025.
North Holland allocates 8 million euros for the Natural Network Netherlands, enhancing ecological sustainability by converting farmland to nature reserves, crucial for biodiversity and green innovation.
Strategic Investment in Natural Infrastructure
The Province of North Holland has announced a significant initiative starting February 7, 2025, making €8 million available in subsidies to complete the Natural Network Netherlands (NNN) [1]. This funding targets farmers, land managers, property owners, and nature organizations committed to strengthening and developing North Holland’s natural landscape [1].
Comprehensive Network Development
The Natural Network program aims to create an interconnected system of natural areas through wildlife corridors, verges, and waterways [1]. This infrastructure is vital for wildlife mobility and plant dispersion, directly supporting biodiversity and public health [1]. Of the planned 56,600 hectares designated for the NNN, approximately 4,000 hectares still require conversion to natural habitat [1].
Dual Subsidy Approach
The province has established two key subsidy schemes: the Quality Impulse Nature and Landscape (SKNL) subsidy for landowners converting agricultural land to nature or improving existing natural areas, and the NNN Lease Redemption and Purchase subsidy supporting land acquisition and termination of lease contracts [1]. Both programs require formal agreements between the province and stakeholders [1].
Future Funding Challenges
While the 2025 funding is secured, the province faces uncertainty regarding future nature development resources [1]. Following the national government’s cancellation of key funding sources, including the National Program for Rural Areas (NPLG) and the Transition Fund, North Holland is currently in discussions with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature to address funding continuity beyond 2025 [1].