The Municipality of Kerkrade and Bosgroep Extend Their Partnership for Forest and Nature Management

On Monday, August 24, Alderman , Alexander Geers (Public Space), and Arno Neijts, director of Bosgroep, officially signed a new cooperation agreement. With this agreement, we are continuing a partnership that has been in place for more than fifteen years.

Kerkrade has a total of approximately 214 hectares of forest, nature, and landscape features, of which about 120 hectares consist of forest and other woody vegetation. Managing these areas requires a great deal of knowledge and experience. This is due, in part, to the steep slopes, wet areas, and forests that border directly on residents’ backyards. There are also younger forest areas, such as on the site of the former Carisborg lignite quarry.

In the coming years, the focus will be on maintaining safe and healthy forests. In addition, we want to work with Bosgroep to address the impacts of climate change by strategically planting new trees and shrubs. Biodiversity and nature conservation will also receive special attention. This will involve, for example, strengthening the transition zones between forested areas and surrounding lands.

Alderman Alexander Geers: "The forests in Kerkrade are of great value to our residents. They provide space for walking, exercising, and relaxing, while also serving as an important habitat for plants and animals. Through this partnership, we ensure that our forests are well managed and retain their value for both people and nature."

By signing the new agreement, the Municipality of Kerkrade and Bosgroep reaffirm their joint commitment to the sustainable management and further development of Kerkrade’s forests and nature areas.