28 Volunteer Projects in North Holland Gain Financial Support
North Holland, Monday, 7 April 2025.
North Holland’s ‘Betrekken bij Groen’ fund awards €45,000 to 28 volunteer projects enhancing biodiversity and nature. The move supports initiatives involving nature education and management improvements.
Significant Community Response
The initiative has garnered substantial interest from the environmental community, with 58 volunteer organizations submitting project proposals worth more than €150,000 in total [1]. From these applications, the jury selected 28 initiatives that demonstrated particular promise in biodiversity enhancement, volunteer support, or innovative approaches to nature conservation [1].
Targeted Environmental Initiatives
Among the notable projects receiving support are specialized initiatives for kingfisher nesting sites in Amsterdam and Zaandam [3]. The Kerkuilenwerkgroep (Barn Owl Working Group) will implement new safety systems across five regions to support volunteers maintaining owl nesting boxes [3]. Additionally, the Heimanshof in Hoofddorp will enhance its educational resources to improve public understanding of local landscapes and species [3].
Equipment and Safety Focus
A significant portion of the funding addresses practical needs in nature conservation work. The program recognizes that proper equipment and personal protective gear are essential for volunteers to effectively carry out their nature management duties [1]. This practical approach ensures that volunteer efforts can be sustained safely and efficiently throughout the province.
Future Impact
The funded projects are set to commence their activities following the March 2025 announcement [5]. This initiative forms part of North Holland’s broader commitment to environmental protection, where the province manages hundreds of valuable natural areas, including 19 EU-protected zones [5]. These efforts contribute to the province’s dual goals of enhancing biodiversity while creating an attractive living environment for residents [5].