Hasselt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Hasselt is restoring the Enkelenberg nature reserve in Wintershoven, improving Wintershovenbeemd’s grasslands, protecting wildlife, and adding safety measures. RLHV’s Ward Andriessen and Alderman Tine Jans lead the project.
As VRT News reported, the city of Hasselt is investing in the nature reserve on Enkelenberg in Wintershoven. They mentioned that the grasslands along the Wintershovenbeemd are important for wildlife and the local community.
The Haspengouw and Voeren Regional Landscape (RLHV) said the site has been poorly maintained in recent years. Overgrowth and lack of care have reduced the quality of the meadows. The city is now taking action to restore the area and make it healthier and more accessible.
How is Hasselt restoring Enkelenberg reserve with RLHV?
According to officials, work on the Wintershovenbeemd will include clearing overgrown areas, planting native species, and supporting habitats for local wildlife.
“It’s become very rough there,”
says Ward Andriessen of RLHV.
“That means we need to catch up: we need to mow the grass annually, remove overgrowth, and manage it properly so it can function as a proper grassland again.”
Officials mentioned that the area is home to many plants and animals, including butterflies and salamanders. These species rely on the grasslands and natural habitats for food, shelter, and breeding. Protecting this area helps maintain local biodiversity.
“The Enkelenberg is one of those places where you truly feel the richness of our natural environment,”
adds Tine Jans (Vooruit), Alderman for Green City.
“With these projects, we’re strengthening nature and making Hasselt a little greener. This way, we protect what grows and blossoms, and ensure that future generations can enjoy it too.”
The city is also working to improve safety and accessibility in the reserve. A new barrier will allow only management vehicles to enter. Large boulders will be placed at key points to prevent quad bikes from entering.
The Enkelenberg and Wintershovenbeemd area restoration is part of a long-term vision of the Haspengouw and Voeren Regional Landscape (RLHV). Grassland restoration has been underway since 2022 to protect wildlife and improve biodiversity. The work is regional, as part of a larger regional plan focused on restoring wet meadows and natural habitats throughout Hasselt and Tongeren. According to RLHV’s 2024 report, all of these areas have ecological value.
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