Hedwige-Prosperpolder new tidal nature area
The Hedwige-Prosperpolder has been transformed into new tidal nature from 2020 until the end of 2022. This offered the unique chance of using an existing levee for strength and emergency response testing.
Scheldedijk replaced by a new levee
With its 465 hectares, the Hedwigepolder in the Netherlands and the adjacent part of the Flemish Prosperpolder form the largest tidal area in Western Europe. The existing Scheldedijk has disappeared and further inland a new levee has been built.
Photo: Hedwige-Prosperpolder. Copyright Vilda - Yves Adams
After preparing the ground for construction, creeks and channels were dug. The water now flows through them to form mud flats and salt marshes. The soil that has been extracted during the excavation work has been used as much as possible for the new levee, which now connects Flanders and the Province of Zeeland. The existing salt marshes and the Scheldedijk itself have been cleared, so that the tide can take its course.