Zandig Vlaanderen Oost

General Description
This area is located in the northern half of East Flanders. It is characterized on the one hand by several large forests where heathland is gradually being restored, and on the other hand by several typical valley landscapes, such as the larger Moervaart Valley and the smaller Zeverenbeek Valley.

Identification
This area lies in the northern half of the province of East Flanders and is divided into 12 separate sub-areas located relatively far apart in the sandy region.

Landscape Description
This beautiful natural area is relatively flat but features, besides extensive forests and heathland, several valley landscapes. Heathland is always found within existing forests, such as in the Drongengoed or the Heidebos and Stropersbos. In the valleys, such as the Moervaart and Zeverenbeek valleys, alder carrs, marshes, and wet grasslands are predominant. A distinctive feature of this area is that its sub-areas are spread out over a wide region.

Who is Active in the Area
The largest part of the area, about 60%, currently consists of forest. Agriculture also remains an important land use, covering around 730 hectares and involving no fewer than 264 farms. Water extraction for drinking water purposes is important near the Heidebos. In addition, the area is used by hunters and recreational visitors.

Click here for more information about Stropersbos ) a forest in the N2000 area!

Click here to go to the Bioblitz page of this Natura 2000 area.

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Photo: Stropersbos, Kris Van de Sande