Merger of adjoining peat bogs could create largest EU park of its kind

MUGGENBEET – For a small country, the Netherlands has will pleasantly surprise sightseers with its variety of different landscapes and regions. Less well known are the rolling hills of Limburg, the forested areas of the Veluwe and the medieval look of the castle dotted Achterhoek, all situated away from foreigners who visit the Netherlands for only a day’s sightseeing in Amsterdam and Volendam. Tucked away in the Northern part of Overijssel is Europe’s prized peatbog. It is comprised of two adjoining sparsely populated locations: De Weerribben, already a national park, and De Wieden, a nature reserve. When the final decision is made, the two may merge into a huge 10,000 hectare national park by 2009, outgoing Agricultural minister Veerman recently announced.