Geology, history and nature management in the Velpe valley

Since we took over the management of parts of the sand quarry of Kerkom a few years ago, we have visited the area and the surrounding landscape several times to admire the rich fauna and flora. But an excavation, such as in the sand quarry, also ensures that we get an image of what is in the subsoil. Today we focus - during the first part of the walk - on the geology of the area. Met Joachim Lambrechts (Regionaal Landschap Zuid-Hageland) we not only have a specialist in the field in-house, but also a passionate storyteller and area expert. From the sand quarry, we then descend to the Velpe. Here too, Joachim can tell us a lot about the rich history of this watercourse and the surrounding landscape. In the valley, quite a few furnishing works were carried out last year - and still are - by the Agentschap Natuur and Forest. We have forester Jerez as a guest to provide more explanation about what has been done and what the hoped-for goals of these works and for the nature reserve are. An exclusive opportunity, therefore, to learn more about the ANB areas in the Velpe valley. The activity is free for members of Natuurpunt, non-members pay five euros. Provide at least a good pair of walking shoes, especially in the valley it can be wet. Parking at the meeting point is not possible. If you come by car, it is best to park it on the Kumtichsestraat. A short walk through the nature reserve will then bring you to the location. In the context of the Waterlandschapsproject Velpevallei, among other things, a fascinating book was also released: Landschapsbiografie De Velpe. After the walk, there is the opportunity to purchase this on the spot. More than worth it! https://www.rlzh.be/publicaties/de-velpe-landschapsbiografie