Wetterterp; Towards a Promising Future

Wetterterp Towards a promising future

A multidisciplinary feasibility study towards developing a cultural historical attraction in the Eeltjemeer area

Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild

Kenniswerkplaats/'Knowledge Atelier' Noordoost Fryslân

Wetterterp; Towards a promising future

A multidisciplinary feasibility study towards developing a cultural historical attraction in the Eeltjemeer area

Erik Tichelaar1 Project manager 880201-830-040 Siep Busink1 Controller 860201-149-080 Wendy Thomassen1 Secretary 880604-829-130 Inger de Jonge1 Team member 900126-407-050 Merle Kueckels1 Team member 880516-485-030 Debela Bercha Kumsa1 Team member 871205-488-010 Rui Zhang1 Team member 840424-987-220

Josette Jacobs2 Coach Karin Peters3 Expert

1164, New ideas for the project ‘Wetterterp’ to improve tourism in Northeast Fryslân.

1 Mechanical Bird Consultancy, Transitorium, Dreijenlaan 2, Room number G28J, NL-6703 HA, Wageningen Netherlands 2 Wageningen University and Research centre, P.O. box 90, NL-6706 KN, Wageningen 3 Wageningen University and Research centre, P.O. box 100, NL-6708 PB, Wageningen

Wageningen, October 2013

Disclaimer: This report is produced by Students of Wageningen University as a part of their MSc- programme. It is NOT an official publication of Wageningen University or Wageningen UR and the content herein does not represent any formal position or representation by Wageningen University.

Acknowledgements

A lot of people were involved in the establishment of this report. We would especially like to thank our commissioners: O. Hiddema, R. Vos and W. Foorthuis for giving us the possibility to conduct this project and for sharing their expert opinions with us. To supplement our knowledge on specific matters, several people were so friendly to provide us with their expert opinion. We would like to thank: J. Tonckens of Tonckens ecologie, M. Van Der Meer and S. O’Hagan of FUGRO, E. Wymenga of Altenburg en Wymenga ecologisch onderzoek, G. Van Oene of Plattelânsprojekten and M. Zijlstra of Beleef Fryslân. We would also like to thank our coach J. Jacobs for helping us develop ourselves during the entire process and our proposal writing expert T. Lans for his helpful remarks. Finally we would like to thank K. Peters for her expert guidance and concrete advice on the project.

Summary

The ‘Wetterterp’ project is a vision for the area of Eeltjemeer developed by the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild. The project area is situated in the North-East of the province of Fryslân near Lake Eeltjemeer. The definition of the Eeltjemeer area within this project is a ten kilometre radius surrounding Eeltjemeer Lake. The project takes a closer look at the area in order to determine the feasibility of the construction of an artificial terp, in order to improve and sustain tourism activity in the area. Currently, this area is facing serious population declination caused by aging, loss of societal facilities and decreasing employment. The agricultural sector also has to deal with the results of peat oxidation, causing the land to sink in. Moreover, the current situation reveals that there is hardly any tourism related infrastructure in the area of Eeltjemeer. Hence, the area is lacking tourism related facilities. The idea of the Commission ‘Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild is to create a touristic attraction which acts as an epicentre for the entire ‘terp area’. This study was conducted with the aim to provide the commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild with a multidisciplinary feasibility study on the construction of a terp in terms of three aspects; tourism, environmental impacts, technical aspects and apart from this a stakeholder analysis was conducted. In order to realize this, the following main research question was formulated:

What are the potentials and pitfalls of the construction of a terp as a touristic attraction in the area of Eeltjemeer?

The following recommendations were made based on the result of this multidisciplinary feasibility study.

 In order to realize a profitable project, the tourism target group has to be assessed and defined. This makes it possible to adapt the plans to fully incorporate the main tourist’s wishes.  Eeltjemeer and project ‘Wetterterp’ can be integrated in the idea of developing an ecological and a cultural/historical route, which is also a tool to develop tourism in the area and to connect the small villages.  Consider the quality of the peat soil when designing a plan to build the terp near Eeltjemeer.  Hire an archaeological advisory group to conduct drilling samples and write a report for the municipality and hopefully change the zoning scheme (archaeological expectation value 2), so that building the terp is allowed.  Make estimations on traffic increase and thus air quality decrease to prevent exceeding the NIBM boundary.  Check spatial planning legislation to see whether acoustic testing is required to guarantee good livelihood of people living in the area.  Explore light reducing options to decrease light pollution in the area that is fairly dark now.  Consider the height of the terp in relation to the core qualities (openness) of the landscape  Consider the fact that a clay terp would not normally have been built on the peat soil near Eeltjemeer. However Eeltjemeer is already a strange, man-made landscape feature.  As is known now, water quality does not pose a threat for recreationists during the swimming season.

 Before commencing the construction works, there needs to be an inventory by a professional ecologist on the exact location of the identified species near Eeltjemeer and to see whether additional species are present.  Consider the presence of endangered animals in the area and develop the required Codes of Conducts to get exemptions of the Flora and Fauna law.  Plan construction works outside of the bird breeding season and frog migration routes.  Since the Tusken Lytsen and the adjacent meadow bird field are close to the area where the terp is planned, more research is needed on the effects of increased tourism within these areas.  Take into account the circular and radial shape of historical terps, and the water surrounding these terps when making the final design.  The peat needs to be stabilized (soil improvement) in order to use it for construction. Since the stability of the ground that will affect stability of the structure above it.  Since the nature of peat makes it a problematic soil for construction it is recommended to test peat quality prior to designing the terp and construction methods.  The main stakeholders for the project; Fryslân province, Dantumadiel Municipality.  The partners connected to the project have the expertise to develop a plan for the ‘Wetterterp’ although before further work is put into building plans for the terp, energy should be put into extended market research.

Samenvatting

De Commissie Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild heeft een visie voor de regio van Eeltjemeer ontworpen, waarin het ‘Wetterterp’ project centraal staat. Het projectgebied ligt in Noordoost Fryslân aan Eeltjemeer. De gebruikte definitie van de omgeving van Eeltjemeer in dit rapport is alles binnen een straal van 10 km rondom het meer. Het project beschrijft de haalbaarheid met betrekking tot het bouwen van terp, ter bevordering van toerisme in het gebied. Het gebied rondom Eeltjemeer heeft te lijden onder problemen met betrekking tot vergrijzing, verminderde sociale faciliteiten en verminderde werkgelegenheid. De agrarische sector moet bovendien rekening houden met veen oxidatie en het daardoor inklinken van het land. In de huidige situatie zijn er weinig toeristische faciliteiten in het gebied rond Eeltjemeer. De visie van de Commissie Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild is het creëren van een toeristische attractie die kan dienen als een ingang voor het hele terpen gebied.

Deze studie is uitgevoerd met als doel; een multidisciplinaire haalbaarheidsstudie met betrekking tot het bouwen van een terp. Hierbij is gekeken naar 3 verschillende aspecten passend bij de expertise van het adviesbureau namelijk toerisme, omgevingsinvloed en technische aspecten. Bovendien is een stakeholder analyse uitgevoerd.

De hoofdvraag binnen het onderzoek is: Wat zijn de mogelijkheden en valkuilen in relatie tot het bouwen van een terp met toerisme als hoofdfunctie in het gebied rondom Eeltjemeer.

De volgende aanbevelingen zijn gemaakt naar aanleiding van het multidisciplinaire haalbaarheidsonderzoek:

 Om het project realiseerbaar te maken is het van belang de toeristische doelgroep te specificeren. Op deze manier is het mogelijk de plannen hierop aan te passen.  Het ‘Wetterterp’ project kan worden geïntegreerd in de plannen met betrekking tot het maken van een ecologische en cultuurhistorische route. Op deze manier kunnen de dorpen worden verbonden.  Houdt rekening met de kwaliteit van het veen rondom Eeltjemeer tijdens het maken van de plannen voor de terp.  Neem een archeologisch adviesbureau in de arm om bodemmonsters te nemen en een rapport te schrijven voor de gemeente Dantumadiel. Op deze manier kan het bestemmingsplan worden aangepast (archeologische verwachtingswaarde 2), zodat de bouw van de terp mogelijk is.  Formuleer schattingen met betrekking tot de toegenomen verkeersdruk, om het effect hiervan op de luchtkwaliteit te berekenen.  Onderzoek in de ruimtelijke ordening of the nodig is een akoestische test uit te voeren naar de geplande toegenomen geluidsdruk.  Bekijk de mogelijkheden om lichtvervuiling tegen te gaan in het gebied dat nu redelijk donker is.  Houdt rekening met de geplande hoogte van de terp in combinatie met de kernkwaliteiten (openheid) van het landschap.  Houdt rekening met het feit dat een kleiterp, normaal gesproken niet zou zijn gebouwd op de veengrond bij Eeltjemeer. Hierbij dient wel vermeld te worden dat Eeltjemeer opzich al geen natuurlijk meer is.  De huidige waterkwaliteit is geen gevaar voor recreanten in het zwemseizoen.

 Voordat de bouwwerkzaamheden uitgevaardigd worden is het van belang dat een bioloog de precieze locatie van de geïdentificeerde beschermde diersoorten in de omgeving van Eeltjemeer bepaald. Bovendien is het belangrijk om te kijken of er nog andere soorten aanwezig zijn dan nu bekend is.  Houdt rekening met beschermde diersoorten in het gebied en ontwerp een gedragscode om uitzonderingen te kunnen verkrijgen binnen de Flora en Fauna wet.  Plan de constructie werkzaamheden buiten het vogelbroedseizoen en de kikker migratie routes.  Aangezien Tusken Lytsen en het naastgelegen weidevogelgebied dicht bij het plangebied liggen, is het van belang te onderzoeken wat de effecten van toegenomen toerisme in dit gebied zullen zijn.  Houdt rekening met de ronde en radiale structuur van historische terpen en het feit dat deze vaak omringd waren door water bij het ontwerp van de nieuwe terp.  Het veen moet worden gestabiliseerd voor er op gebouwd kan worden, omdat de stabiliteit van de ondergrond de stabiliteit van het bouwwerk beïnvloed.  Onderzoek de veenkwaliteit, voor het ontwerpen van de definitieve terp en de bouwplannen.  De belangrijkste stakeholders voor dit project zijn; de provincie Fryslân, gemeente Dantumadiel.  De beschreven stakeholders hebben alle benodigde kennis in huis om een plan te maken voor de ‘Wetterterp,’ maar voordat verder wordt gewerkt aan de bouwplannen is het van belang energie te steken in een uitgebreid marktonderzoek.

Contents Introduction ...... 11 History ...... 11 Area and problem description...... 11 Commissioners ...... 12 The Idea ...... 13 Aim of the research ...... 15 Methodology ...... 16 Research limitations ...... 18 Chapter 1 - Tourism ...... 19 1.1 Tourism development in Fryslân ...... 20 1.1.1 Inbound Tourism ...... 20 1.1.2 Domestic Tourism ...... 21 1.1.3 Employment in tourism ...... 22 1.2 Current position in market ...... 22 1.2.2 Tourism Infrastructure and Transportation ...... 24 1.2.3 Seasonality ...... 24 1.3 Best practice example ...... 24 1.4 Impact of tourism in the area of Eeltjemeer ...... 25 1.5 Tourism survey on project ‘Wetterterp’ ...... 27 1.6 Conclusion and recommendations ...... 29 Chapter 2 - Environment ...... 31 2.1 Landscape ...... 31 2.1.1 Background information...... 31 2.1.2 Spatial planning and development ...... 32 2.1.3 Environmental risk assessment ...... 34 2.1.4 Conclusion and recommendations ...... 38 2.2 Water aspects ...... 39 2.2.1 Water quality regulations ...... 39 2.2.2 Water analysis Eeltjemeer ...... 40 2.2.3 Possible risks ...... 42 2.2.4 Recommendation and Conclusion...... 43 2.3 Flora and fauna ...... 44 2.3.1 Nature legislation ...... 44 2.3.2 Relevant ecological values ...... 45

2.3.3 Effect determination ...... 47 2.3.4 Recommendation and conclusions ...... 50 Chapter 3 – Technological construction ...... 51 3.1 Demands and constraints on design ...... 51 3.1.1 Constraints on recreational intensity ...... 51 3.1.2 Constraints on design characteristics ...... 52 3.1.3 Conclusion and Recommendations ...... 53 3.2 Construction related legislation ...... 54 3.2.1 Quality demands ...... 54 3.2.2 Watertoets ...... 55 3.2.3 Dredge material ...... 55 3.2.4 Land use ...... 56 3.3 Soil properties ...... 59 3.4 Peat quality tests ...... 61 3.4.1 Cone penetration test (CPT) ...... 61 3.4.2 Vane shear test (VST) ...... 62 3.5 Peat treatment ...... 62 Chapter 4 - Stakeholders ...... 64 4.1 Current stage ...... 64 4.1.1. Stakeholders ...... 64 4.1.2 Power analysis ...... 69 4.1.3 Conclusion ...... 70 4.2 Future stage ...... 71 4.3 Conclusion and Recommendations ...... 75 SWOT-analysis and integration ...... 76 Conclusion ...... 78 Bibliography ...... 79 Appendices ...... 85 Appendix I - Project description and outline ...... 85 Appendix II - Expert List ...... 86 Appendix III – Tourism ...... 87 Appendix IV – Environment ...... 110 Appendix IV a – Landscape ...... 110 Appendix IV b – Water ...... 111

Appendix IV c - Flora and Fauna law ...... 115 Appendix V – Technical construction ...... 119 Appendix VI – Stakeholders ...... 122 Appendix VII – SWOT analysis ...... 126

Introduction

History In the Netherlands, industries and citizens challenge farmers by demanding more functions from the landscape, than only food production (Jolande and Paul 2009). The basic factors behind this are associated with urbanization, improved infrastructure in the Netherlands, increasing demands for recreation, nature conservation e.g. (Vos and Meekes 1999). Therefore, landscapes are expected to fulfil many functions at the same time. Sustainability of landscape quality may only be guaranteed by commitment of all actors engaged: farmers, nature- and water managers, recreational entrepreneurs, spatial planers (Vos and Meekes 1999). Moreover, the use of natural resources should be based on the comprehensive considerations of the ecological, economic and social values and without compromising the needs of future generations. Therefore, we consider landscape performance in terms of sustainable development (Linehan and Gross 1998). These days the issue of landscapes is on the political agenda. In addition, Natural and cultural aspects of landscapes are receiving attention from researchers, planners and policy makers. The main reason behind this is the general observation that the changes in landscapes become extremely devastating and many heritage values and resources become irreversibly lost (Antrop 2004). Most Europe's cultural landscapes resulted from a long-lasting land use history: different stages overlaid, or replaced each other (Vos and Meekes 1999). The Frisian landscape today is also a 'cultural landscape', in other words, the result of a long history of human activities. It is believed that countless generations have lived in the area. Over the centuries, people have continually made physical changes in their environment in attempts to make a living (Jacob, undated).

Since the 5th and 6th century BC the Fryslân coastal marches were inhabited permanently. After several generations the settlers of an area stretching from the province of North Holland (The Netherlands) to Esbjerg (Denmark) build settlements on natural elevations and ‘artificial dwelling mounds’ (from here on called ‘terps’). These first terps were made out of sods and dung (Knottnerus 2001). Although due to rising sea level and the collapse of the Roman Empire the Fryslân coastal marches were largely abandoned by 300 AD. Resettlement took place after 425 AD and the development of terps continued (Knottnerus 2001). Living on a terp proved a successful, safe and productive adaptation for settlers to live in an environment exposed to the threat of flooding (Bazelmans et al. 2012).

Area and problem description The project area is situated in the North East of the province of Fryslân near Lake Eeltjemeer (from here on Eeltjemeer). The definition of the Eeltjemeer area within this project is a ten kilometer radius surrounding Eeltjemeer Lake (Figure 1). The terps in the marsk, Marsch or sea clay landscape, which can be found north of the Eeltjemeer area, were in developed in the period starting before 400 BC and are characterized by terps raised up to NAP +6.0 m. There is one terp approximately ten kilometres to the North East of Eeltjemeer which is up to +8.8m high (terp of Hegebeintum) (Knottnerus 2001). The embankment of the coastal marches, such as the Fryske Wâlden (south of Eeltjemeer) only started in the 11th and 12th century. Most of the farms and cottages were built in

11 linear settlements near or on dykes and the land is characterized by a maze of ditches, hedgerows and sod banks. The surface level lies below NAP ranging from – 2.0 to 0.0 m (Knottnerus 2001). Some terp development took place in the peat area. These developments included stinswieren, which are fortified houses located on a moated mound (Knottnerus 2001, Bosatlas 2009). An example of such a stinswier can be found approximately 8 km South-West of Eeltjemeer, in Feanwâlden (De Schierstins 2013). The development of monasteries played an important role in water management, land reclamation and agriculture (Knottnerus 2001). The remains of the monastery of Claercamp are situated approx. 3 km for Eeltjemeer (Claercamp 2013).

Figure 1 - The area of Eeltjemeer (10 km radius)

Currently, the area is facing serious population decline by aging, loss of societal facilities and decreasing employment. Besides that, the agricultural sector has to deal with the results of peat oxidation, which causes the land to subside. The current procedure is to pump water out of the area, since otherwise farming would not be possible. Within the coming years, however farmers have to adapt their practises, since continuing the current procedures would results in dry and arid lands (Pers. comm. W. Foorthuis 2013)

Commissioners Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild The project area contains thirteen villages that are represented within the project by the Commission ‘Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild’. This commission is formed to express and advocate the interests and visions of the thirteen village counsels. The commission is formed by three volunteers; Oege Hiddema, Sybren Ytsma en Sigrid Keimpema. The Commission wishes to restore cultural and historical bonds between villages, inhabitants and companies.

The vision of the commission is expressed in the ‘Dorpenvisie’, which contains a set of ten priorities for the ‘Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild’ area. This is the entire area within the ring of the 13 villages, while the Eeltjemeer area is a small (10 km radius around the lake) part of the Bûtenfjild. These ten priorities are:

1. Enhance the historical axis between Claercamp and Schierstins; 2. Create circular land- and water connections; 3. Regenerate the waterways between the villages to reconnect them by water; 4. Sustainable development by electrical powered vehicles only; 5. Create a water connection with the ‘Grote Wielen’; 6. Develop chances for the agricultural sector; 7. Develop accommodations for tourism and recreational activities; 8. Create an attractive Wetterwâlden area to attract (re-)immigrants; 9. By impairment of the N361, be considered of ‘de Dorpenvisie’; 10. Smart connections. (Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild, 2013).

Knowledge Atelier (Kenniswerkplaats) Noord-oost Fryslân The Knowledge Atelier Noordoost Fryslân functions as an intermediary between the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild and the Wageningen University. It is a centre where entrepreneurs, government, schools, research institutes and regional organizations meet to work jointly on a vitally strong North-East Fryslân. In this way the Knowledge Atelier creates an environment that promotes ‘living knowledge,’ between many different parties. This means that different parties work together in an environment in which everyone is willing to learn from each other to reach a goal. This living and developing knowledge can then be used to solve societal problems.

The Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild is supported by the Knowledge Atelier Noord-oost Fryslân, who approached the organization of the course YMC-60809 Academic Consultancy Training of the Wageningen University and Research for aid on the project called: ‘New ideas for the project ‘Wetterterp’ to improve tourism in Northeast Fryslân.

The Idea The ‘Wetterterp’ project is a vision for Eeltjemeer developed by the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild. It supports several priorities of the 'Dorpenvisie' points (1, 4, 7, and 8) by assessing the possibilities of creating a terp in the area of Eeltjemeer and the opportunities this provides for the region. The current situation reveals that there is hardly any tourism related infrastructure in the area of Eeltjemeer, except for an electrical boat rent, some restaurants and a small information centre. Thus, the area is lacking hotels, campsites, restaurants, cafés and other tourism related facilities. There are several projects running to restore old waterways to connect the villages again and to increase the amount of sailing- and hiking routes, but these will not succeed, when there is no clear entrance to the area (Pers. comm. O. Hiddema 2013). This terp thus has to function as an entrance to the terp area, which the Commission defined as the area between Dunkirk (France) and Esbjerg (Denmark). It has to make the area more attractive for tourists as well as for residents to provoke an impulse for residential recreation and provide a platform for educational, cultural and recreational services (Appendix I).

The area between Aldtsjerk and Rinsumageast (central in the Eeltjemeer area), does not add any attractiveness to Bûtenfjild area. The area is described as a windy, open area that is boring, and does not provide any attractive qualities for tourists to visit the area (Pers. comm. O. Hiddema 2013). Included in the area is a lake that is created due to the activity of sand extraction, the so called ‘Eeltjemeer’. Until now Eeltjemeer is considered as a boring area with a lack of creative input and lacking a clear destination plan, but at the same time it can be considered as an area that provides a great opportunity for the development of a touristic attraction (Pers. comm. O. Hiddema 2013). Nowadays the area is equipped with a couple of facilities that provide the area with the possibility to facilitate only a couple of hundred people on a warm summer day. Throughout the rest of the year, the area is abandoned and does not provide any connection with the rest of the area, acting as a foreign element in the countryside (Pers. comm. O. Hiddema 2013).

The idea of creating a terp (figure 2) in the area might provide an outcome as a touristic hotspot that acts as an entrance to the entire ‘Terp area’. The ‘Wetterterp’ presented in figure 2 is partly surrounded by water and is connected to the swimming area of Eeltjemeer. The ‘Wetterterp’ is accessible by road and water; it uses the existing parking lot for parking space and contains a docking area for mooring boats. The interior of the terp has a restaurant/ bar at the southern side, overlooking the beach and docking area. A museum and/or Information Centre about the cultural history of Fryslân (and the Dutch battle with water), will be situated in the northern section of the terp. The Figure 2 - Prelimary design of the terp outline of the ‘Wetterterp’ is 75 meters in diameter and five meters in height. The slope is 22.5 degrees. When considering the floor area arched by the slope as lost floor space, the remaining floor of the interior of the ‘Wetterterp’ is 506 m2. Dividing this floor area into 100 m2 entrance, 200 m2 restaurant/bar and 200 m2 museum results in a restaurant with approximately 80 available chairs. The museum can be doubled in size by developing a second floor underneath the ground floor. This ‘basement’ can show the soil layers of the Eeltjemeer area and contain more geographical content compared to the ground floor museum.

The problem is thus defined as: The development of a terp in Eeltjemeer is an innovative idea, it might create a possibility to attract tourism to the area, but it is unclear whether building this terp is actually feasible.

Aim of the research The aim of the project is to provide the commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild with a multidisciplinary feasibility study on building a terp in terms of three dimensions; tourism, environmental impacts and technical construction. On top of this we conducted an extensive stakeholder analysis. We have limited ourselves to these four dimensions, leaving political and financial aspects out, as our expertise’s addresses these aspects and the total amount of time is restricted. Based on the purpose, the following research questions were formulated:

Main Research Question: What are the potentials and pitfalls of building a terp as a touristic attraction in the area of Eeltjemeer?

Sub-questions:

1. What are the potentials and pitfalls of building a terp regarding tourism? 2. What are the potentials and pitfalls of building a terp regarding environmental impacts? 3. What are the potentials and pitfalls of building a terp regarding the technical construction? 4. What are the potentials and pitfalls of building a terp regarding the stakeholders involved in the process?

Methodology

This study was conducted as a multidisciplinary feasibility study. The data and information for this project were collected through literature review, expert interviews, a SWOT analysis and by means of a tourist survey.

What is a Feasibility study? A feasibility study is used to evaluate an idea and to investigate whether the idea is viable or not. It also identifies important facts and figures, which contribute to the decision-making process and helps you to come up with potential alternative approaches and solutions in order to put the idea into practice (Together Works 2013).

A feasibility study is thus an essential method for effective planning and successful research and to gather information and knowledge on how to proceed. Furthermore, a feasibility study reduces the risk of poor decision-making as it gives an objective and independent view on the idea at stake, which allows making well-founded decisions (Together Works 2013).

Related to our expertise, we focused on the feasibility of the project ‘Wetterterp’ concerning three main aspects: tourism, environmental impacts and technical construction. Potentials and pitfalls were assessed and solutions and recommendations were given to aid the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild in further decision making. Because of its multidisciplinary character, the feasibility study conducted within the report is referred to as: a multidisciplinary feasibility study.

Literature review Literature review was conducted on the three earlier described aspects of the multidisciplinary feasibility study; tourism, environment and technical aspects as well as for the stakeholder analysis. The division of the feasibility study in to the three aspects was based on our own expertise within the team. Due to the limitations within our expertise the decision was made to neglect the financial aspect of a multidisciplinary feasibility study. The aim of the literature study was to generate relevant scientific information regarding the aspects in order to determine the feasibility of the project idea. In order to underpin the feasibility analysis an identification of the potential, pitfalls, and solutions was conducted. Based on these findings, alternative approaches and recommendations were given in order to provide further advice on the implementation of the project. In addition, knowledge from a good practice project was studied and included in the literature review in order to provide comparative matter. The feasibility study was adjusted to the commissioner’s demands, to the multidisciplinary nature of the Consultancy team and to the team’s expertise.

Expert communication Experts on the aspects were approached in order to support the literature study and fill possible gaps in the Consultancy team’s knowledge. Identification and selection of the relevant experts in the three aspects was performed on the basis of internet research and by information from O. Hiddema and K. Peters. Because of time constraints as well as the unavailability of some experts within the time span of the project, most experts were contacted by email, which lead to some limitations in exchange of information.

The expert communication was conducted with 2 experts from tourism related fields, 2 from the environmental aspect, 3 from construction and 1 expert for the stakeholder analysis (see expert list in the appendix II). Accordingly, relevant information for all aspects was collected to support the multidisciplinary feasibility study.

SWOT analysis A SWOT analysis, or SWOT matrix, is a well-structured method that describes the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (confrontation matrix) for planning, marketing, comparison of competition, organizational development, product development, research and team building. In the case of this project, the SWOT analysis was used to determine the strengths and weaknesses found within the three aspects. After the creation of the confrontation matrix, important issues can be defined and solutions can be formulated to overcome them.

Preliminary tourist survey In order to provide more insight in the tourism demands and needs in domestic tourism, we conducted a preliminary tourist survey. The questions were prepared with SurveyMonkey, which is an online program that enables you to create an online questionnaire with a wide range of options. The questionnaire was distributed on the Facebook (social media platform) pages of all group members and in specific Facebook groups in order to provide results from a wide range people. We specifically targeted Dutch residents, since the survey was created to generate information based on the needs and demands of domestic tourists. The survey was completed by 103 respondents. The results were interpreted and used as a recommendation for the needs and wishes of tourists.

Research limitations

Language barrier

Due to the specific topic and the small scale of the project, it was very difficult to find English literature on terps and the area of Eeltjemeer. Since the project was announced as an international project including non-Dutch speaking students the task division between team members was not equally distributed and extra work occurred due to translations from Dutch to English. Furthermore, important Dutch literature might be missed on some aspects, due to the fact that three out of seven group members are non-Dutch speaking and based their literature review for the most on English literature. Also, translation mistakes might have occurred. Overcoming language barrier: In order to not miss important information and to put every group member on the same page, Dutch speaking members volunteered in translating and summarizing most important facts and information into English.

Lack of expertise The expertise of the group members focuses on tourism and recreation, forest and nature conservation, biology, aquaculture, marine resource management and environmental sciences. Although this is a wide range of expertise we are lacking people with a background in business and policy making, which is actually an important part of a feasibility study and which we cannot integrate due to lack of knowledge and time shortage. Overcoming lack of expertise: Group members are willing to read into literature which is not related to their field of expertise, still since no one of us has a background in businesses and financing as well as policy making, the input given on these areas still remain superficial. In addition, our manager attended the Modular Skills Training course ‘Pursuing and realizing entrepreneurial projects’ which gave him more insight in the business related aspects of the project. Another way to partly fill this gap is by contacting experts in this field.

Time shortage The whole project had to be done within two months from the start. In our case the Consultancy bureau only had seven weeks to do the research, write the report and give the final presentation due to Dutch holidays that pushed forward the date of the final presentation. One missing week of research and writing might have affected the outcome and the quality of the product. Overcoming time shortage: Based on good time management, the team tries to set tasks in the beginning of a week which has to be done by the end of this week. Furthermore, by dividing the group into subgroups and splitting tasks based on our expertise we were confident to have a good quality end result in the end of week seven of the project.

Communicational problems Due to external circumstances including communicational problems, the process of the project was delayed in the first few weeks, since further clarification on the direction of the project was needed which was not provided in time, thus resulting in the writing of two project proposals and loss of time. Overcoming communicational problems: Due to the flexibility of the group we could and can adjust the working process and the direction of the project to the given external feedback.

Chapter 1 - Tourism Within this part of the report we want to investigate the current tourism situation in the area of Eeltjemeer. Due to the very small scale of the area we have to relay on tourism statistics and data related to the area of Fryslân in general. In detail, we will give a general overview over the tourism development and tourism arrivals in Fryslân and analysed the motives and activities related to the ‘Wetterterp’ idea. First of all it is necessary to define terps as an element within the cultural heritage tourism to give a theoretical framework. This is important in order to give internal structure to this section and to provide a particular perspective, or lens, through which to examine this issue (Trent University 2013).

Cultural Heritage Tourism It is difficult to give a general definition of cultural heritage tourism as not only the meanings of the terms are really broad but also because we have to distinguish between cultural tourism and heritage tourism. Clearly, both terms are connected to each other and can be applied to the “Wetterterp”. First of all cultural tourism is conceptually defined as “the movement of persons to cultural attractions away from their normal place of residence, with the intention to gather new information and experiences to satisfy their cultural needs” (Richards 1996 in Ivanovic). This definition gives us insight in the main motives of cultural tourists; namely education and novelty (authenticity and uniqueness) (Ivanovic 2008). Furthermore, “the Netherlands Institute for Heritage defines heritage as the tangible (objects) and intangible (stories) expressions of a society's culture that have been handed down from generation to generation” (The Netherlands Institute for Heritage 2013). Tangible heritage objects can be described as monuments, historical/arcitectual relicts artefacts and museums. In addition to the material form, heritage is supplemented by the immaterial, like philosophy, stories of people and society, their traditions and art, happenings and events as well as characteristics of their way of living (Isaac 2008). Based on the given definitions, we can place heritage wihtin cultural tourism.

Terps used to be a typical element in the north Friesian landscape until they became useless after the construction of dikes. Because of its long history and the important role terps used to play in the lifes of Friesian people, they can be considered as cultural capital of the province of Fryslân. Combining the construction of a terp, showing the remains of former way of Friesian living, with an integrated museum which tells the story of the people, presents historical developments and tradition, we can state that the project “Wetterterp” has to be seen within cultural heritage tourism.

Cultural Heritage Tourism in the Netherlands

In Dutch tradition, culture was foremost regarded as a means to improve the livelihood of people rather than promoting and marketing it as a commodity. This view changed dramatically as national, regional and local governments discovered the potential of culture and cultural tourism in specific to increase economic development (Richards 2005). Nowadays, cultural tourism in the Netherlands is seen as a potential solution to a great variety of problems such as the funding of cultural institutions including the preservation of cultural heritage, spreading tourism seasonally and regionally as well as spreading cultural consumption geographically and socially and furthermore facilitating national and regional identities (Richards 2005).

Cultural tourists are seen as an attractive target group as they are well educated, they have a higher income and they are willing to go to more remote, rural areas aside the main stream places (Richards 2012). Besides the obvious positive aspects of the desirable cultural tourists, there are potential negative consequences to this target group and especially their needs are often ignored. According to Richards (2012), there is evidence, that local destinations often use a ‘build it and they will come approach’ for cultural tourism development without addressing a specific market (Richards 2012).

Tourists with an interest in natural and cultural heritage seek for a broad range of activities to statisfy their needs and wishes. Roughly, the activities can be divided into nature, adventure, education and culture tourism activities (European Commission 2002). Related to the project ‘Wetterterp’ the main activities can be placed within the field of education and culture. Namely: learning about local history, art and heritage; village life and rural life; visiting historic and religious monuments or vernacular buildings and ruins (see Appendice III). Further activities can be added by broadening the touristical offer and by integrating other tourism elements around the terp.

Although cultural tourism was identified as a key driver in tourism development by many policy- makers, the market is poorly understood. Often, cultural tourism related initiatives are developed and established from a local cultural supply perspective, rather than a confirmed need and demand amongst the visitors and the local residents. “These needs should be brought more sharply in to focus, particularly as one of the important questions that policy-makers have to face is: who are these facilities being developed for?” (Richards 2012).

More information on development of cultural tourism in the Netherlands can be found in Appendix III.

1.1 Tourism development in Fryslân

1.1.1 Inbound Tourism Locating Eeltjemeer in the sandy areas of Fryslân, above the lake area, we can observe that there is a decline in inbound travel of 5% based on tourism statistics from the years 2007 to 2011. Especially a decrease from the German tourism market could be assessed: a loss from 132,900 German arrivals in 2005 to 97,900 arrivals in 2010 (NBTC 2012).

Focusing on the main activities undertaken by inbound tourists in the Netherlands in 2009 in terms of cultural tourism, 59% are in favour of visiting historic sites and places of interest and 47% likes to visit a museum. Both activies can be applied to the project ‘Wetterterp’. By extending to the area of Eeltjemeer, activities like hiking, which accounts for 61% and visiting an area of scenic beauty (31%) can be added, see table 1 (NBTC 2012).

Table 1: Activities undertaken by inbound leisure travellers in the Netherlands in 2009 (NBTC 2012).

1.1.2 Domestic Tourism Within domestic tourism, the sandy areas of Fryslân including Eeltjemeer ranks on second place close behind the North Sea Coast, which is not far away from Eeltjemeer. Domestic tourism arrivals increased up to 207.500 in year 2011 (NBTC 2012). The main activities undertaken by the Dutch in 2011, which can be connected to the project ‘Wetterterp’, are visiting places of interest (23%) and visiting museums (12%) and when further extending to the are hiking (54%) and biking (27%) can be taken into account as well. To specify further, in 2010, about 107 million leisure activities which were linked to culture were undertaken by the Dutch of which 29% accounted for museum visitis and visits of monument/attraction (NBTC 2012)(Table 2).

Table 2 - Activities undertaken by the Dutch during domestic holiday in 2011 (NBTC 2012)

Extended information on the current tourism situation in the Netherlands and in Fryslân in particular can be found in Appendix III.

1.1.3 Employment in tourism Concerning the occupation rate, 6,6 % of the Friesian population was working in the recreation and tourism sector in 2012 which indicates a loss of 4,0% compared to 2008. The decline in the recreation and tourism sector is a result of overall decrease in the retail industry/ wholesale trade (-1,2%), accommodation facilities (-1,9%), sports (-0,8%), transport (-1,0%) and other categories (-2,5%)(table 3).

Table 3 - Employment (fulltime + part-time) in the leisure and tourism sector in 2012 (Toerisme Monitor 2012)

1.2 Current position in market

Figure 3 - Area of Eeltjemeer within 10km radius 22

1.2.1 Competition The following graph shows the top ten of the most popular tourist attractions in Fryslân. As shown in table 4, 6 out of the 10 tourist attractions have a historical, cultural or natural science background. Still, three of these attractions show a decline in visitor numbers. Namely the Bezoekercentrum Appelscha, the Natuurmuseum Fryslân and Vuurtoren Ameland. The distribution of the tourist attractions is concentrated in Leeuwarden, where 4 of the main day trip attractions are located. The other 6 attractions are spread out through the whole of Fryslân, including the islands.

Table 4 - Ten main day trip attractions in Fryslân, 2008-2012 (Toerisme Monitor 2012)

Cultural- historical and nature related activities and sights within 10km radius around Eeltjemeer

 Roman churches (1000-1150) in Rinsumgaest  Gothic churches (1400-1600) in Dokkum  Houtzaagmolen De Zwaluw in Burdaard  Streekmuseum Het Admiraliteitshuis in Dokkum  Bijbels Prentenkabinet in Dokkum  Bezoekerscentrum Hegebeintum  De Schierstins in Veenwouden

 Natuurmuseum Dokkum

Based on the experts’ opinion from ‘Beleef Fryslân’, the ‘Bezoekerscentrum Hegebeintum’ is the biggest competition to the project ‘Wetterterp’, as it is directly related to the topic. So far, the original terp in Hegebeintum is the most popular one in the area. In the visitor’s centre people can get an impression of the life and history of people when they lived around and on the terp, as well as information about the cultural importance of the area. On the northeast side of the terp, visitors can see a reconstruction of how the terp was excavated (Bezoekerscentrum "Terp Hegebeintum" 2009).

Thus, the risk exists that, also in terms of authenticity (see section on tourism survey), tourists will rather go to visit an original terp including the visitor’s centre in Hegebeintum then the artificial terp in Eeltjemeer.

1.2.2 Tourism Infrastructure and Transportation Around Eeltjemeer there is already an existing infrastructure which can be used to develop or attract further tourism. The inventory shows that there are: picnic benches, a toilet and a shower, trash cans, a swimming lane, parking spaces, an information sign and a children’s playground.

The accessibility of Eeltjemeer is assured through two main routes from the southern part of Fryslân over the national roads N361 and N356, which come together in Dokkum and lead further to the Wadden Sea. Right now, both national roads ran through many of the small villages surrounding Eeltjemeer, which can affect the car accident rate and can cause traffic jams in the area. A plan to relieve the national routes and to give better access to this part of Fryslân is by building “de Centrale as” which connects Germany and the south of the Netherlands to the Wadden Sea and which passes by Veenwouden and Damwâld on the east side of Eeltjemeer. Most domestic tourists in the Netherlands, as well as a major part from inbound tourists are travelling by car (NBTC 2012). This means that the new built “de Centrale as” will relieve the former main travel routes to Fryslân and make the whole area more accessible for tourists.

1.2.3 Seasonality A lot of the main activities undertaken by the Dutch in domestic holidays as well as cultural heritage related activities are dependent on the season. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, swimming as well as visiting outdoor historical sites and places of interest are reliant on weather conditions. Refering to the top 10 day-attractions in Fryslân one can see that most of them are constructed to attract tourists all year around. Existing tourism (e.g. water recreation in Eeltjemeer) so far highly depends on good weather as there are no sheltered instalations or indoor facilities for tourists to use yet.

1.3 Best practice example This section will give an overview of the current situation in Schokland. This is because people in Schokland also used to live on terps in the past and some of these terps are still visible today. However the environment of Eeltjemeer and the cultural history of this area are fairly different from the history of Schokland. The most remarkable concordances between the two areas apart from the presence of terps are the importance of the historic battle against the water and the presence of farmers in the area. Therefore it might be possible that evaluating the tourism related situation in Schokland can provide advantages for attracting tourists to the ‘Wetterterp’. Background information on touristic facilities and the management of Schokland can be found in appendix III.

What can we learn from this? The tourism facilities near Schokland are fairly similar compared to the plans for Eeltjemeer, except for the fact that the ‘Wetterterp’ will be a ‘new’ terp, while the terps in Schokland are historic. As explained earlier this might have an effect on the experience of authenticity by the visitors. From the fact that the museum about Schokland receives over 50.000 visitors in a year, we can conclude that there is public interest in learning about the cultural history and the Dutch battle against the water.

This interest in the Dutch relationship with water was also visible in the conducted questionnaire (58% of respondents were interested to very interested). Therefore there is a potential market for the museum and the terp near Eeltjemeer. What also matches the approach of the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild is the fact that the management organizations of Schokland included a broad range of stakeholders with different expertise. In the Schokland case, it seemed to have paid off. Involvement of the farmers in the area can possibly also increase the support for the ‘Wetterterp’, since farming is an important means of livelihood in the area. Another option that is apparent when looking at the Schokland situation is that there are many events to draw attention to the area and create awareness. This can also be a nice way to promote the Eeltjemeer area, however more research on the possibilities for these different events is required if the terp will be constructed.

1.4 Impact of tourism in the area of Eeltjemeer Introduction By implementing tourism in the area of Eeltjemeer, it will implicate that impacts will occur which affect the local economy, the people living in the area as well as the environment. Relating to the introduction of the report including the problem description, we know that the area of Eeltjemeer faces serious problems concerning a decline in the economy, loss of population and decrease of job opportunities. In this section we will mainly focus on the economic and socio-cultural impacts of tourism and cultural tourism in specific in Eeltjemeer. The environmental impacts will be discussed in the announced section within the environmental dimension. Since the defined area of Eeltjemeer accounts for 10km in radius we focus on small-scale impacts.

Positive Economic impacts Direct and indirect revenues Depending on the target group which will be attracted by the project ‘Wetterterp’, tourists will spend certain amounts of money when visiting the area. Money will be spent in terms of entrance fees, accommodation and much more. This will have a direct impact on the local economy depending on the number on tourist arrivals (EESTI 2012).

Next to directly-related tourism businesses, the tourism industry involves many other sectors such as food and beverage, transportation and construction. Thus, more income is derived from each sector in the supply chain and more labour is involved into this chain (Ashley et al. 2007, Bellini et al. 2005). The indirect participation in the local tourism value chain would benefit more individuals, organizations and enterprises (Ashley, 2006). However, like the direct effect, also the indirect effects heavily depend on number of arrivals and type of tourists coming to the area. Further focus can be put on linkages between the tourism chain and the local economy to investigate the approaches needed to maximize local economic impacts.

For the area of Eeltjemeer, indirect effects can be presented in terms of additional income and additional jobs in the sectors serving the project ‘Wetterterp’ such as boot/canoe rents, restaurants/cafés, transportation and more.

Job creation As the project ‘Wetterterp’ includes the construction of a terp as well as operating a museum, many temporarily but also permanently jobs will be created which gives the local population but also non- locals an opportunity to increase their incomes. Skill requirements for these jobs might be vary, so it may offer work for people who are lower educated as well as high educated people (Bellini et al. 2005).

Diversifying the local economy The area of Eeltjemeer is a rural area in north of Fryslân that struggled with water for centuries which results in a dependence of the majority of local people on agriculture for sustaining their livelihood. However, agricultural labour intensity will decline in the future due to landscape changing caused by shrinkage of the peat. Experts forecast (Pers. comm. W. Foorthuis 2013), that due to the extinction of peat in the area of Eeltjemeer caused by a rising water level, soil will be nutrient-poor resulting in a decline in agriculture. Tourism may offer rural dwellers an alternative to unemployment such as small-scale and self-employment business enterprises.

Thirdly, tourism has a wide range of dynamic effects. Tourism development can affect the livelihood strategies of local households, the business climate for small enterprise development, patterns of growth of the local or national economy, and the infrastructure or natural resource base of the destination (Ashley at al. 2007).

Negative economic impacts High costs for infrastructure The risk when implementing successful tourism in the area of Eeltjemeer might be the high costs for establishing the needed infrastructure such as roads, the museum, the terp and other basic additional items e.g. a restaurant or a café, hiking and biking routes etc. The costs are usually carried by the government which means that projects like the ‘Wetterterp’ are based on tax revenues (Simm 2013). This risk can be limited as there is already basic infrastructure around Eeltjemeer as mentioned in the previous section on tourism infrastructure and transportation. Moreover, since a main national road will be constructed located eastern to Eeltjemeer, the main concern about the accessibility of the area is already addressed.

Dependency on Seasonality Tourism generates a variety of jobs which are often seasonal and not well paid. The seasonal character of a tourism attraction is not beneficial for the local economy as there is no guarantee of employment due to lack of tourists arrivals (Simm 2013). The project ‘Wetterterp’ is partly based on outdoor activities including the visiting of the terp as well as the lake and partly based on indoor activities, such as the visiting of the museum. Still, there might be a risk of high gaps in revenue to the local economy due to seasons (winter vs. summer). Also, numbers on tourist arrivals will differ per season based on tourism statistics about domestic tourism in Fryslân (NBTC 2008).

The scale of economic impacts of tourism on the area of Eeltjemeer depends on the conditions in the host economy, the supply side factors of the local tourism industry, government policies, type and number of tourists and tourism companies’ business practices (Ashley et al. 2007).

Socio-cultural impacts By preserving and representing a community’s cultural capital, the identity and the image of the people and the community is shaped. It is their heritage which rises awareness of its origin and its culture (The Netherlands Institute for Heritage 2013).

Furthermore, the improvement of existing infrastructure and newly build infrastructure as well as new leisure facilities which result from tourism can also benefit the local community (The Netherlands Institute for Heritage 2013).

As mentioned before, cultural tourism can also add to the idea of Europe by identifying important cultural-historical attractions and by showing the diversity of European culture but also their similarities (Richards 2012). Terps are to be found not only in Fryslân, but also in Denmark and in Germany. Thus, this cultural-historical development of the fight against the water is cross-boundary and unites three countries.

1.5 Tourism survey on project ‘Wetterterp’ In addition to our literature study on tourism in Fryslân, we wanted to give more insight in the tourism demand and needs in domestic tourism. Also, the survey adds to the multidisciplinary feasibility study in terms of the desirability of the project. The data collection took place between the 3rd of October and the 9th of October. We constructed the questionnaire on surveymonkey.com (an online survey construction tool) and distributed it via Facebook. The total sample size of the survey accounts for N=103 respondents. All questions in the questionnaire can be found in Appendix III, together with the (raw) collected data.

Interpretation of data From the survey data and the literature study on domestic tourism and tourism in Fryslân we can draw some conclusions concerning the idea of project ‘Wetterterp’.

To support Fryslân being a favourite domestic tourism destination (see section on domestic tourism), we can see from the collected data that for 48% of the respondents Fryslân appeals to be a desirable tourism destination for various reasons. The 52% who voted against Fryslân as a tourism destination can be linked to the origin of the respondents. Since the majority lives currently in Gelderland they have to travel a long distance in order to spend their holidays and to undertake day trip activities in Fryslân. Especially, when it comes to day trips, we can assume that people from Gelderland are probably not willing to travel for hours to spend a day in Fryslân (31%).

Concerning the incorporation of terps as being a typical Friesian element in the image of tourists is not yet fully given. Although 87,1% of the 93 respondents state that they knew about the existence of terps, only 22,9% (from 96 responses) claim them to be an element of Friesian landscape. The image people have predominantly about Fryslân is based on the unique Friesian sport activities like Fierljeppen, Kaatsen and Skûtsjesilen and the famous Elfstedentocht which takes place during winter when the canals are frozen and people ice skate through 11 different villages in Fryslân. So as a conclusion we can state that terps don’t play a major role in the image of Fryslân so far which can be changed by promoting terps more within cultural tourism. Moreover, tourists in Fryslân have a major interest in water, lakes and canals (NBTC 2012) which can be seen as a benefit for the project as it can be more strongly connected to water recreation and the lake itself to attract high visitor numbers.

Interpreting the main activities which domestic tourists want to do, we can say, that by defining a terp as a cultural attraction, this is wanted by the respondents with a percentage of 25,3%. Thus, we can conclude that there is a market for cultural tourism which supports the previous outcomes of the literature study on tourism in Fryslân. Visiting a museum is less appreciated by the respondents. Overall, cultural sights and museums don’t function as main points of interest, they lack attractiveness. Following, we can state that other elements have to be included in the project ‘Wetterterp’ to attract more visitors, such as e.g. a restaurant and accessible and developed hiking and biking routes to explore surrounding nature for tourists close to Eeltjemeer as these are main activities undertaken by domestic tourists (NBTC 2012). This direction can be further elaborated using the results of important facilities tourists want to have around when on vacation or doing day trips. Again, a restaurant and possibilities to visit surrounding nature rank on the first places. Furthermore, other natural potential and resources of the area of Eeltjemeer can be integrated and developed in order to attract more tourists such as e.g. building a look-out point, expanding and developing the beach area at Eeltjemeer or establishing a sort of marina for boot and canoe rent. As many people ask for nature related activities (e.g. visiting nature and beach, sailing, biking, hiking, swimming etc.) it is directly related to the desired means of transportation around the terp and Eeltjemeer which is bikes and walking.

A terp, and especially an artificial terp, doesn’t have the potential to function as a tourist attraction as it appeals not to be interesting for domestic tourists. This is supported by the survey results, which say that 44,3% of 95 respondents are uninterested to very uninterested in the idea of visiting a terp. However, people are interested in the cultural history of the Netherlands and the fight against water (57,9% from 95 respondents) which was typical for people living in the area also seen in the case of Schokland. By including other natural and cultural potentials and resources of the area of Eeltjemeer, tourists might be attracted to the area nonetheless and visit the terp including the museum as a secondary motive.

A major critique or possible threat to the project ‘Wetterterp’ is the lack of authenticity due to a new construction of a terp which is not a relict from former way of living in the area and which is in addition not typically for the area around Eeltjemeer as it will be built on peat instead of clay. Normally, terps were constructed on clay soil as they are nutrient and vegetables could be grown on the terp and cattle could live on the ground whereas peat soil is nutrient-poor and nothing can grow on this soil.

Further information on authenticity in cultural tourism can be found in Appendix III.

1.6 Conclusion and recommendations Based on the above given description of the current state of tourism in Fryslân and the impacts of tourism on the area of Eeltjemeer as well as taking results from the survey and expert into account, we need to give some recommendations concerning the project ‘Wetterterp’ in order to give a statement about the feasibility of the project.

1. Defining a target group for the project “Wetterterp” (Desirability) Essential for the success of the project is to define a target group, to address a specific market as it gives indications about the potential customers, their motives and further input for the marketing strategy (Together Works 2013). Cultural tourism related initiatives have to be developed and established based on a confirmed need and demand amongst the visitors and the local residents. Some indications can be taken from the previous description of cultural tourists and the visitor profile in Fryslân, but there is more research needed in the desirability of the project in the region and how to attract visitors.

2. Linking tourism potentials Based on outcomes of the previous sections, we know that tourist’s main motives don’t lie in visiting cultural sites and museums but rather going to water sites. They prefer outdoor activities like hiking, biking, swimming and further more eating out and shopping (Stenden Instituut Service Management 2009). Therefore, we can recommend to combine and to link the tourism potential of the area. The area of Eeltjemeer offers some cultural and natural resources which can be touristically market and which can be linked to the project ‘Wetterterp’. If the commission wants to implement the idea they should link the idea to other tourism sectors and attractions in the area e.g.:

- Connection to water tourism, - Connection to ecological & historical route - Connection to Wadden Sea/ North Sea Coast,

Connection to water tourism: There is an existing strategy, ‘land and water verbonden’ a future vision and strategic vision for water recreation in Northeast Frylsân 2025 by the communities Achtkarspelen, Dantumadiel, Dongeradeel, Ferwerderadiel, Kollumerland c.a., Tytsjerksteradiel and the province Fryslân concerning the socio-economic and rural development of Northeast Fryslân through the development of water recreation activities. Since the project “Wetterterp” is located next to Eeltjemeer which has a connection to already existing waterways running through surrounding villages, the idea is to implement water recreation elements within the project. This integration can be supported by statistical data on visitor motives from day trip tourists and overnight tourists coming to Fryslân, which ask in high numbers for water recreation activities (5% and 7%). Moreover, insight gained from our survey, 52 reponses are related to water recreation activities e.g. marina, canoe and boot rent, beach and swimming possibilities. By making this connection more visitors can be attracted to the area of Eeltjemeer.

Connection to ecological and historical route: A schematic represenation of the development of an ecological and historical route by the commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild was developed (Table 4), linking cultural historical sights on a north-south axis and linking villages arround Eeltjemeer through an ecological circuit.

As the survey and the literature study reveals,there is a general interest in cultural related activities The idea “Wetterterp” can be integrated or can function as an entrance to the routes, thus giving the tourists a broader range of ecological and cultural-historical related sites to visit.

Figure 4 - Schematic representation of developing a historical and ecological route in Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild (Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild 2013)

Connection to Wadden Sea/ North Sea Coast: Since visiting the Wadden Sea/ North Sea Coast ranks on first place within domestic tourism (NBTC 2012), the short distance to the sea can be included in the marketing strategy of the are of Eeltjemeer.

Focus on quality and authenticity Based on results form the tourism survey on the project ‘Wetterterp’ as well as insights gained from the literature study, we can state that a newly constructed terp is not authentic in the eyes of cultural tourists and thus less attractive. Therefore, we can forecast that the project would be more successful and moreover find more acceptance amongst the local population, if an old one was restored in order to be more authentic to the audience. They require authentic stories which formed the local history and culture and it is this story which interests visitors. In tourism, authenticity adds real value and appeal.

Chapter 2 - Environment

Projects that involve some kind of construction could possibly detriment environmental values within the plan area. This could for example be due to decreased living space for wild animals or habitat fragmentation, environmental pollution and disturbance by increased noise and light levels. Within every project it is important to identify possible environmental impacts and their consequences on forehand e.g. to obtain permits or exemptions for construction. In this way, one can prevent delays and other difficulties in later stages of the project which eventually saves time and money.

Projects such as the ‘Wetterterp’ can have environmental impacts on the area of Eeltjemeer and the 10km radius surrounding it. In this chapter important issues regarding the environment are discussed and a description of the current situation in Eeltjemeer for three different topics (the landscape, water and flora and fauna) will be described. Next, an assessment of the effects of the project on these aspects will be presented combined with consequences of Dutch legislation. Lastly effects will be determined and possible risks regarding the environment are identified. Followed by a recommendation on further proceedings.

2.1 Landscape

2.1.1 Background information Eeltjemeer is part of the municipality of Dantumadiel and is situated between Aldtsjerk and Rinsumageast (uurhok 0633). The lake currently is 1km2 large, but there are new plans to extract more sand on the west banks. Eeltjemeer is surrounded by higher sandy ridges, levees and the sea clay area (Tonckens 2009).

Landscape types and development Water played a key role in the Frisian history and the development of the landscapes we see today. Human settlement altered the dynamic nature of the water in the area and therefor shaped the landscape. Peat cutting started around the 15th century by the monks from the Claercamp monastery and following the 2nd World War many areas were drained and converted into meadows (Wymenga and Attema 2009). Unfortunately this decreased the ecological value of the area, since it threatened and endangered rare ecosystems. Currently farmers play a key role in managing the landscape, while using it for their livelihood at the same time (Wymenga and Attema 2009).

The area surrounding Eeltjemeer is classified as an open landscape (see appendix IV a for the ecostructure area map of Dantumadiel), which means it mainly consists of meadows and polders. The main occupation of inhabitants is dairy farming. The area looks like a stereotypical Dutch landscape; flat, with large grasslands, small ditches and a lot of cows (Figure 5). The open landscape type is an important habitat for meadow bird nesting and it serves as a feeding area for geese (Wymenga and Attema 2009). The area contains many small ditches and waterways, which are carefully managed and cleaned regularly (Tonckens 2009). This unfortunately decreases their ecological value. The banks of Eeltjemeer itself are very nutrient-rich.

Figure 5– View from Eeltjemeer towards Tusken Lytsen (Googlemaps streetview 2013)

A part on the western edge of Eeltjemeer is classified as buildings, since this area contains most of the farms and buildings. This area is valuable for certain bird species (e.g. swallows) and old buildings may be used as roosting sites by bats (Postma-Saan 2009). The north-eastern part of Eeltjemeer is currently in use as a recreational area, with an artificial sandy beach and some facilities. 2.1.2 Spatial planning and development The zoning scheme of the Bûtenfjild area in the municipality of Dantumadiel is the consequence of policy of the municipality itself, the province and the national government. Every project that deals with infrastructure and spatial planning needs to respect the destination plans that are set up by these institutes.

The province of Fryslân has also produced guidelines on landscape and spatial planning. In the ‘Streekplan Fryslân 2007’ provincial frameworks are set up. The main focus of the province regarding spatial planning is an undivided Fryslân with spatial quality. Spatial quality means that there is a high interest for the maintenance and further development of utility, amenities and future value (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013a, Bügelhajema 2012). Especially the maintenance and further development of the qualities of the landscape is of great interest. Furthermore, the province wants to strive towards a recognizable Fryslân, which means that recognizable elements and core qualities should be maintained and enhanced. The ‘Streekplan Fryslân 2007’ differentiates between several Frisian landscape types. It is important that the developmental history of these landscape types remains visible and that the sense of identity is strengthened.

In the case of Dantumadiel, there are two main landscape types (box 1) that needs to be taken into account (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b).

Box 1 - Landscape types according to the ‘Streekplan Fryslân’ 2007 in the municipality of Dantumadiel

‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’ The ‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’ are situated between Dokkum and Drachten (vereniging NFW 2013). In the municipality of Dantumadiel, the peaty areas in Bûtenfjild are part of the ‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’. Core qualities of this landscape type are linear settlements (long stretched villages along canals, levees or roads) and a relatively dense network of hedgerows and alder webbings which function as fences. There are also many structure determining (geological) elements in the landscape such as pingoruines (spherical hills), dobben (a pool without in- and outflow) and roads with avenue planting. Within this landscape there is a high variation in scale, which makes it very attractive in an aesthetical point of view.

‘Clay area’ The northern part of the municipality of Dantumadiel consists of a clay area, which extents towards the Waddensea. Core qualities are openness and large scale structural elements such as embankments, ‘kwelderwallen’ (bank of a river which extends over a marsh), terps, paths, rifts (tectonical valleys) and channels. There are grasslands in the lower elevated parts and arable land and horticulture at the ‘kwelderwallen’. These kwelderwallen were historically the ideal place to settle because they were good starting points to build a terp.

The planning area of the ‘Wetterterp’ is not situated in one of these ‘main’ landscape types. The distribution of several landscape types in the municipality of Dantumadiel can be seen in appendix IV a. The map shows that the landscape of the clay area is situated West, North and North-East of the Eeltjemeer. The protected part of the ‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’ are Southwards and Eastwards of Eeltjemeer (Figure 9) so, the planning area does not belong to one of the (by ‘streekplan Fryslân’) mentioned landscape types. Instead, Eeltjemeer area belongs to a sub landscape type ‘peat land area’, which is officially part of the ‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’ (Romte verorderning). The core qualities of this sub landscape type are very similar to the main landscape type ‘clay area’. This is also supported by the local situation surrounding Eeltjemeer: The area of Eeltjemeer is very open, consists of large scale structures and lacks the variety that is mentioned as a core quality of the ‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’.

Regarding the landscape types in the municipality of Dantumadiel, the commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild could argue that the area of Eeltjemeer is similar to the landscape type ‘clay area’. This could be an important connecting factor and argument for the ‘Wetterterp’ project. Clay terps are an element of the ‘clay terp area’ and not of the ‘Noardlike Fryske Wâlden’. This is an important possible opposition on building a terp near Eeltjemeer. Therefore, our recommendation is to focus on the core qualities which the sub landscape type ‘peat land area’ and the clay area landscape type have in common. Openness and large scale structures are important factors to keep in mind. In this way, one can argue that it is not a total mismatch; in fact, the landscape types are pretty similar. A pitfall is that this could give restrictions on the height of the ‘Wetterterp’ and the eventual facilities on the terp. For example, a stins or a watchtower won’t fit into this recommended strategy (Pers. comm. J. Tonckens 2013, Pers. comm. E. Wymenga 2013). We will go deeper into this in the chapter 3 on technical aspects.

The soil of Eeltjemeer consists of peat. An important pitfall therefore is that the terp is going to be built on a peat soil. Historically the peat areas were too wet to live on, even if you would build a terp, since it was not possible to keep cattle or grow crops. The most important consideration in deciding where to build your house in the past was whether you could make a livelihood on the particular spot. Most terps were constructed on clay soil, which is a lot less soggy and very fertile. People living in peat rich areas mostly build their houses on sandy ridges like are still visible in the villages surrounding Eeltjemeer today (e.g. Faenwâlden, Aldtsjerk, Rinsumagaest) (Pers. comm. W. Foorthuis 2013).

Besides this, the costs is considerably higher, since building on peat soils brings a number of difficulties, as will be discussed in chapter 3 construction.

Regarding the ‘miss match with the landscape’, one could argue that the Eeltjemeer itself is not natural: the Eeltjemeer Lake originated from sand extraction. This is also mentioned by Eddy Wymenga, advisor and ecologist of an ecological research company (Wymenga and Attema 2009, Pers. comm. E. Wymenga 2013). During the expert conversation, he mentioned that the Eeltjemeer is already a strange element in the landscape. Wymenga also mentions that a terp is preferably surrounded by water and that the placement of the terp inside the water of the Eeltjemeer could make the area exciting. Regarding the openness of the landscape, Mr. Wymenga mentioned that terps can fit in, as long as they are not too high.

2.1.3 Environmental risk assessment Related to the construction of a terp in the area of Eeltjemeer, different environmental problems could arise. It is important to assess a number of environmental indicators such as soil contamination, air pollution, particulate matter, sound-, noise- and light pollution before commencing the project. The corresponding legislation on these matters will be described.

Soil characteristics The soil surrounding most of Eeltjemeer is classified as hVs (Clayey peat) and is sub-categorized as “koopveengrond” on Spaghnum peat (Postma-Saan 2009, LNV 2008, Roeloffzen 2006). The soil consists of a clay layer with peat underneath, sometimes mixed with low amounts of sand (bijenhelpdesk 2013). The clay was deposited on top of the peat due to historical flooding. The soil is highly organic and has a low mineral content. The top soil layer (A-horizont) is at least 15 cm thick and consists of maximum 15% of recognizable plant remains. From drilling in 1972 it is known that the bottom of Eeltjemeer itself consists of a clay top layer followed by a peat layer and eventually sand. From drilling data that ranges from 1930-1998 it can also be seen that the amount of peat in the area is decreasing, probably due to peat oxidization (Dinoloket 2013). This peat subsidence also leads to lowering ground level. The land surrounding Eeltjemeer currently lies between 0 and -2 meters NAP (geo-informatie 2013).

While constructing the terp, the possible landscape changes and peat subsidence need to be taken into account. Another important point is that the construction should be adapted to the soil beneath the terp. Most of the area consists of peat and it might be harder and more expensive to construct something on this unstable, suppressible surface (see chapter 3, construction).

Soil contamination For the national ‘Landsdekkend Beeld Bodemverontreiniging’ project the Province of Fryslân conducted a survey on possible contaminated areas (BügelHanjema adviseurs 2012). From data in the maps of the ‘Bodemloket’, it became apparent that the soil near Eeltjemeer was included in this survey and no further research or remediation is necessary (purple shading in figure 6). Therefor there are no steps that need to be taken before it is possible to use or build in the Eeltjemeer soil.

Figure 6 – Soil contamination map of Eeltjemeer (Bodemloket 2013)

Archaeology Since Eeltjemeer V.O.F. wants to extend sand extraction in the west of Eeltjemeer, extensive studies were conducted on the geography of this area and possible archaeological importance. During this survey it became clear that there is no so called ‘podzolgrond’ formed in the area, meaning the area was too wet to live on during the Stone Age. There were no signs of medieval occupation and no archaeological findings were reported in ARCHIS. Therefore it was concluded that there is no need for any archaeological surveys on the terrain (Postma-Saan 2009). This survey was conducted on the western side of Eeltjemeer, but it is not expected that the results on the east side of Eeltjemeer are any different. Another study in the Bûtenfjild area (Houtwiel and Swartebroek) also concluded that the area used to be too wet for occupation during the Stone Age (Verboom-Jansen and Thijs 2010).

However, several zoning scheme maps classify the North-Eastern bank of Eeltjemeer, near the preferred terp construction area as: Archaeological expectation value level 2 (Figure 7 in red). This means that there is an expectation that artefacts can be found from the Iron Age or Middle age and a survey of level 1 is required. When building in a value level 2 classified area the ground surface area cannot exceed 500 m2 and 0.3 meters in depth. If it does, the applicant needs to provide a survey with at least 6 drilling samples per hectare and at least 6 drilling samples at the building site to the municipality. This way it can be judged, whether further research is required and/or if construction can take place. They municipality also holds the power to change classification of the area (Ruimtelijke plannen 2013a).

The total size of the project, including landscape changes and expansion of Eeltjemeer Lake will probably exceed the 500m2 boundary and construction also succeeds the 0.3 meter depth boundary, therefore further research is required. We advise the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild to hire an archaeological advisory group to conduct drilling samples and write a report that can be presented to the municipality of Dantumadiel. We think it is unlikely that many historical remains will be found, so construction may still be possible after completing this required survey. If however building is allowed and artefacts are found during the construction process, an archaeologist must first secure the artefacts.

Figure 7 – Map of the archaeological expectation value 2 area near Eeltjemeer in red (Ruimtelijke plannen 2013b)

Air quality and particulate matter (PM10) The air quality regulations in the Netherlands are implemented in de ‘Wet Milieubeheer.’ The main point of this law is the ‘Nationaal Samenwerkingsprogramma Luchtkwaliteit’ (NSL), which prescribes how to deal with projects that decrease air quality.

The law states that projects that fit in the NSL and do not decrease air quality in a meaningful way (NIBM) do not have to be tested. The limit of this regulation is set at a 3% decrease of the year 3 3 average air quality boundary of 40 µg/m (or an increase of 1,2 µg/m NO2 or PM10)(Kenniscentrum Infomil 2013).

The Eeltjemeer area currently fulfils all air quality regulations and the particulate matter values are in the low risk area (<10 PM10 day average (µg/m3). The Ozone maximal hour values range between 60-120 µg/m3, which is again a low risk amount (LML 2013a).

The construction of the terp could lead to an increase in traffic to and from Eeltjemeer by tourists visiting the area. On top of this, construction vehicles have to work in the area and new supply trucks will have to deliver products to Eeltjemeer. In the ‘Dorpenvisie’ (2013) it is stated that the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild wants to promote eco-friendly means of transportation such as; electric cars and boats, Segways and horse (and carriage). These can greatly reduce NO2 and

PM10 emissions, compared to ‘regular’ fuelled traffic. However it needs to be checked whether the NIBM boundary will be crossed, since not all traffic will be eco-friendly.

There is a tool available on the Infomil website that can help to estimate whether the air quality will be decreased more than 3% of the year average air quality boundary. This tool incorporates the increase in (fuelled) traffic after completion of the project and the percentage of Lorries to calculate the increase in NO2 and PM10. This tool can be found at: http://www.infomil.nl/onderwerpen/klimaat-lucht/luchtkwaliteit/rekenen-meten/nibm-tool. The consultancy bureau therefore recommend the Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild Commission to do more research on the expected traffic increase in the area to estimate the possible decrease in air quality.

Sound regulations Building a terp and increasing tourism in Eeltjemeer will lead to an increase in traffic intensity, which thus increases traffic noise. However, since an increase in traffic intensity is not classified as a change of the road itself, there is no need to do an acoustic survey related to the ‘Wet geluidshinder’ (Wgh).

However, related to the laws on spatial planning, it might be required to check the acoustic changes related to increased traffic intensity to make sure the living conditions of the farmers in the area is still guaranteed. If necessary mitigation measures can be taken, these include for example new and quiet asphalt, noise barriers or road engineering measures (LML 2013b).

As explained earlier the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild wants to promote eco-friendly means of transportation. These can greatly reduce the noise levels in the environment, compared to regular traffic. Therefor the actual noise level increase might not be as large as expected from the overall traffic increase.

Our advice is to look further into the spatial planning regulations (Wro) and see whether any surveys or mitigation measures are required. This also depends on estimations of traffic to and from the area, and the percentage of eco-friendly (and thus quiet) traffic. It is recommended that the Commission to makes an inventory of expected traffic increase.

It also needs to be mentioned that apart from inhabitants of the area, many animal species area very sensitive to sound disturbance. It can affect their communication, reproduction and can lead to abandonment of the area. It is expected that fish can suffer from construction sounds and vibration in the Eeltjemeer area when the terp is build. Land animals might experience negative effects from the increased traffic and visitor noise (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b).

Light pollution Another important point to consider while thinking about construction the terp is the possibility of light pollution in an area that is still considerably dark. According to E. Wymenga (2013) of Altenburg & Wymenga ecological surveys, the current darkness is an important quality of the Bûtenfjild area. Light pollution can result in economic and ecological damage, as well as aesthetic consequences. The ecological damage results from changes in the balance between nocturnal animals and their predators or prey. Animals that are adapted to the dark, suddenly face challenges that they are not adapted to. (Platform Lichthinder 2013, Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b)

Building the terp and attracting tourists to the area will probably lead to an increase in streetlights, traffic lights and possibly lighting in tourist facilities. To prevent the previously described negative effects it is worthwhile to examine the possibilities of eco-friendly and more efficient lighting or the use of different and less disturbing colours of light (e.g. green). Another option is to make sure that (street)lights are always turned off in the evening. On some occasions it might be possible to attach lights to motion sensors, to decrease the amount of time the light is on, e.g. in tourist accommodation.

2.1.4 Conclusion and recommendations As explained in the landscape section, Eeltjemeer is on the border of the ‘Clay area’ and the ‘Fryske Wâlden’ area. In our opinion, the Eeltjemeer area has many core qualities in common with the clay area; openness and large scale structures. Therefore , we reasoned that there are valid arguments for constructing a terp near Eeltjemeer even when you would not expect a clay terp on a peat soil. This means however, that the terp cannot be too high.

Another argument is that Eeltjemeer is already a ‘strange’ feature in the Bûtenfjild landscape, since it is man-made by sand extraction. One could argue that placing an artificial new terp in this area, would therefore not make the area less natural because it was already unnatural.

The section on the environmental risk assessment explained possible soil and landscape related issues and the legislation that is involved. The soil near Eeltjemeer consists of a large part of peat, with some sand and/or clay. The soil is not contaminated and can be used for construction without the need for mitigation measures. Part of the plan area is classified as archaeological expectation value level 2 and therefor has building restrictions, extra steps have to be taken to build the terp here. Another thing that should be kept in mind is that the increase in visitors and thus vehicles can decrease air quality and increase sound levels. Finally the light pollution needs to be considered, since currently the area is fairly dark which is a rare characteristic in the Netherlands.

Concluding from this section we advise the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild to:

 Consider the effect of the soil and the possible future subsidence of the peat on the possibilities of building a terp near Eeltjemeer.  Hire an archaeological advisory group to conduct drilling samples and write a report for the municipality and hopefully change the spatial plans.  Make estimations on traffic increase and thus air quality decrease to prevent exceeding the NIBM boundary. If this boundary is increased, testing is required.  Check spatial planning legislation to see whether acoustic testing is required.  Explore light reducing options to decrease light pollution.  Find out the precise landowners of the plan area  Consider the height of the terp in relation to the core qualities of the landscape  Consider the fact that a clay terp would not normally have been built on the peat soil near Eeltjemeer.

2.2 Water aspects Eeltjemeer falls in the category of a Buffered lake (subtype shallow buffered lake). A buffered lake is an average to large sized water body which is planar, shallow to fairly deep, stationary, and contains buffered, fresh water. The water is supposed to be pH neutral or slightly basic, and mildly eutrophic to eutrophic. Buffered lakes are readily affected by wind activity. Due to the dominant wind direction in the Netherlands (South-West), erosion can occur at the North-East part of the water body, whereas sedimentation can occur on the South-West part of the water body. The origin of the water is mainly groundwater.

For Eeltjemeer to develop as a touristic attraction, it is important that during the swimming season, the water quality is good and the swimming water has an attractive appearance during the whole season in order to attract people and maintain the safety of the recreationists. The preconditions for a healthy buffered lake and an executive summary of the quality required for Dutch swimming waters can be found in appendix IV b.

2.2.1 Water quality regulations The swimming water directive of the European Union focuses on the reduction of risk on health issues for swimmers as much as possible. In 2006, this directive has been renewed. At the end of 2015, on basis of measurements over a couple of years, swimming locations should have at least acquired the class of ‘acceptable’. On the longer scale, all swimming locations should acquire the status of ‘good’ or ‘excellent’, but no time limit is set. The quality of the swimming locations will be determined on basis of two bacterial concentrations; Intestinal enterococcus (IE) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), which are measured by ‘Rijkswaterstaat’ on a regular basis. There is no European regulation regarding the allowed concentrations of the bacteria in swimming locations. The ministry of Volkshuisvesting, Ruimtelijke ordening en Mileubeheer (VROM) advices a maximum of 2000 kve/100 ml for E. coli and 400 kve/100 ml for IE (kve/ 100 ml indicates the amount of colonies grown out of 100 ml water samples). An overview on measures to take when the concentration of bacterial colonies exceed the norms, as well as the parties that are responsible for water quality and measurements can be found in appendix IVb.

Yearly, the province analyses the safety and hygiene of Eeltjemeer twice according to the ‘Wet Hygiëne en Veiligheid Badinrichtingen en Zwemgelegenheden (Whvbz)’.

During this analysis, the following subjects are studied:

 Steepness of the underwater slope  Bottom type  Condition of the bottom  Turbidity, concerning risks of obstacles present under water  Presence of connecting lines  Determination of the water depth  Presence of garbage (Biological and non-biological) on the beach or in the water  Overall hygiene (presence of vermin, dead fish, dead plant material, birds etc.)  Hygiene sanitary facilities  Determining the number of visitors According to these results, Whvbz information signs are placed in the area, regarding possible safety risks set up according to European legislation for swimming water. 39

2.2.2 Water analysis Eeltjemeer Table 5 - gives an overview of the water quality results for Eeltjemeer during the swimming season of 2012 (Whvbz report 2012).

Penetration (Doorzicht) (cm) / Turbidity (NTU’s) This column indicates the turbidity of Eeltjemeer in centimetres of sight underwater. The sight ranges from 30 to approximately 50 cm, which translates in 11 to 21 NTU’s (Nephelometric Turbidity Units); the measurement to quantify how much light is scattered due to suspended sediment. No guidelines are set up regarding the turbidity in recreational swimming areas in the Netherlands. But in America, for recreational areas, a limit of 4.2 NTU’s is recommended for possible hazard identification by swimmers (Rosetta 2005). This hazard identification means that people who are in the water are able to see hazardous situations and objects, such as rocks/pipes etc. Also, turbid water does not add to the attractiveness of recreational areas and can add to the intern backorder of nutrients. Eeltjemeer, with a turbidity ranging from approximately 11 to 21 NTU’s is considered as a cloudy to murky water body, insufficient for hazard identification and not suitable as an attractive water body for recreational use.

The present high turbidity can be cause by sand extraction as well as agricultural runoff in combination with strong winds that prevent particles to settle. For the Netherlands, obligations regarding sand extraction and swimming activities are included in the removal license. The sand extractor is not allowed to work during the swimming season and is obligated to create a sloping bottom over the first 20 meters of the swimming area with a maximum gradient of 6 % (van Dreven et al. 2000), to prevent hazardous situations for swimmers and prevent high turbidity. However turbidity is still too high, so other caused (or a combination of causes) plays a role here.

Temperature The average temperature of Eeltjemeer during the swimming season in 2012 was 16,6 °C (Table 5). Temperature can have a large impact on the development of blooming Cyanobacteria. For Cyanobacteria the temperature for maximum growth lies above 20 °C, with an optimum ranging between 25 – 30 °C. Dominance of Cyanobacteria usually occurs at temperatures higher than 20 °C because of their temperature optimum above this temperature, where-as other algae tend to have optima below this temperature (Robarts & Zohary 1987). Cyanobacteria species vary in their reaction to low temperatures. Microsystis sp. showed a sharp decline in growth at temperatures below 15 °C, but other species were able to grow well at temperatures as low as 10 °C. An overview on temperature preferences of different Cyanobacteria can be found in appendix IV c.

Looking at this data, the threat of Cyanobacteria was negligible in 2012, where the summer was relative cold and no toxic Cyano chlorophyll was detected during the swimming season (Table 5). Average temperature of Eeltjemeer remained below 20 °C in 2012, indicating unfavourable conditions for Cyanobacteria to bloom. When average temperatures in the summer start to increase, as was the case in 2013, water temperature of Eeltjemeer can rapidly increase to temperatures above 20 °C, increasing the possibility of the forming of toxic algal blooms. When looking at table 14, the location of the swimming area is fairly susceptible for the development of toxic concentrations of Cyano- chlorophyll.

When the area will be developed to attract a large number of tourists, explicit monitoring of the water should be maintained during warm periods in the summer, since tourism activity can lead to eutrophication of the water (e.g. waste dumping, run-off from catering businesses), favouring algal blooming. Since Wetterskip Fryslân has the statutory duty of monitoring the quality of the water every two weeks during the swimming season, no further approach on the management of the water quality is necessary. Anyhow, the municipality of Dantumadiel did not provide any information on management and maintenance activities of Eeltjemeer. It remains unknown who performs the management and maintenance up to date. When tourism activity increases in Eeltjemeer, agreement and clearness between the different involved authorities should be documented. pH and Oxygen The most effective method to avoid blooming of Cyanobacteria is to limit the effects of eutrophication. This can be achieved by limiting the supply of fertilizers from the surrounding area or creating a buffer zone surrounding the water body in order to reduce negative impacts from agricultural activities. Also, agreements on wastewater disposal from catering businesses should be taken into concern. Increased concentrations of Nitrogen (N) and Phosphate (P), caused by (agricultural) water run-off, can lead to a rapid increase of the multiplication of the algae. An important side effect of eutrophication is the increase of the pH, making the water basic due to the chemical by-products created during the photosynthetic activities of these algae. When the nutrients start to become depleted, the algae start to die and sink to the bottom and decompose. Bacteria decomposing these algae leach oxygen from the water and produce acidic by-products. This can eventually lead to acidification of the water and hypoxic conditions (Yang et al. 2008). At all time, oxygen concentrations are not allowed to reach below 5 mg/l, indicating the start of hypoxic conditions.

For Eeltjemeer, looking at the data, the effects of eutrophication do not pose a serious threat for the lake. In 2012, the conditions for pH and oxygen concentrations were good (pH slightly basic and oxygen concentration of 8 – 10 mg/l) (Table 5), falling within the range of the preconditions for a buffered lake. Analysis of pH and oxygen did not indicate any major effects of eutrophication in the area. However, conditions for pH and oxygen were only monitored in 2012, during a relative cool summer. Conditions might prove different during a warm summer with increased tourism activity, where algae blooming might occur, increasing the risk of hypoxia in the lake, especially since the swimming area is mainly stationary due to the isolation of the swimming area from the rest of Eeltjemeer by a mole with a small passageway (1 to 2 meter). In order to reduce the risks on the swimming area it is advised to increase the interaction with the water from Eeltjemeer, since it is expected that exchange of water is limited due to the presence of the mole.

Electrical conductivity (EC) Electrical conductivity (EC) is a measure of a materials ability to accommodate the transport of an electric charge. For water, EC is used in order to measure the salinization of the water body. For Eeltjemeer, EC varied between 881 to 915 uS/cm (table 5), which falls within the range of fresh water (30 uS/cm – 2000 uS/cm), but slightly out of the range of the preconditions for a buffered lake indicating water of moderate quality. For electrical conductivity, no norms exist in the Netherlands. An increase in EC can occur due to the run-off of ionized agricultural particles, and can contribute to the occurrence of algal blooming. Increase of tourism activity can add to the increase of EC, increasing the chance of the forming of toxic algae.

2.2.3 Possible risks One of the biggest concerns in the Eeltjemeer Lake is the formation of toxic cyanobacteria. Table 6 gives a summary of the biggest threats concerning the formation of cyanobacteria in the lake (Whvbz report 2012).

Table 6 – Biggest threats concerning the formation of cyanobacteria (Whvbz 2012)

Factor Substantiation Eeltjemeer swimming area Risk Isolation When a swimming area is Due to the narrow passage it’s Small isolated, the chance of almost impossible for the scum to Cyanobacteria is larger, drift into the swimming area. since the scum drifts away Ecological situation The more natural and Current state: insufficient Large balanced the vegetation of the water flora, the smaller the chance of Cyanobacteria Nutrient concentration The larger the Current state: moderate Large concentration of phosphate, the larger the chance of Cyanobacteria Turbidity increase and Adds to the intern Current state: turbidity is insufficient. Large accumulation of silt backorder of nutrients No accumulation of silt. Water temperature The higher the water Water temperature is moderate moderate temperature, the lower the chance of Cyanobacteria. Location relative to the Dominant wind direction Swimming water location is Large wind is South-West. Scums drift unfavourable (North-East) to the North-East Electrical conduction The lower the electrical The EC is currently a bit above Moderate conduction, the lower the desired conditions. chance of Cyanobacteria

Concerning the formation of Cyanobacteria, the risk in the current situation is low, since the water quality of Eeltjemeer is fairly good and no toxic algae were detected in 2012. The swimming area does however contain a number of factors who indicate a real treat for the formation of Cyanobacteria at certain circumstances. When tourism activity increases, chances of the forming of these toxic algae can increase when these activities are not properly managed. It is advised to take into account the factors mentioned in table 14, and adjust the current situation to conditions less favourable for Cyanobacteria. Some factors cannot be altered, like the wind and the location of the swimming area. Therefore monitoring of the area is important to maintain the availability of the area trough-out the entire swimming season.

Faecal pollution In the period 2002 – 2009, the water was checked for faecal pollution approximately 100 times. On six of the days, limits for faecal pollution were exceeded. Thermo tolerant coli exceeded the norm on all six days. Intestinal enterococci and Escherichia coli (4 times higher) also exceeded the norm but were only measured since 2008. When looking at (table 5), limits were not exceeded in 2012. The summer of 2012 was cool and the swimming water probably wasn’t used often during the swimming season. Based on these findings, it can be said that possible risk for faecal pollution is high, since the limits were exceeded multiple times over multiple years. The swimming water of Eeltjemeer on basis of faecal pollution is qualified as: Good. Although analysis indicated that there is a risk on faecal pollution, especially when tourism activity will increase.

2.2.4 Recommendation and Conclusion At the moment, the overall quality of the water of Eeltjemeer is good and suitable for the development of an area which can sustain more tourism activity. There is some room for improvement on certain aspects. First of all, there is only data of the season of 2012 and some limited data on earlier dates concerning the quality of the Eeltjemeer water. The data of only one season can be biased, since water quality can be affected by a lot of different influences (a-biotic and biotic) throughout time. Data of more seasons are required in order to get a clear overview of the quality of the water of Eeltjemeer over time. Regarding the analysis of the water quality, some uncertainties exist. It’s not clear who performs this analysis according to the water quality document of 2012. The reliability of these results cannot be guaranteed as long as there is no clarification on the executor of the water quality.

Regarding the overall quality as it is known now, the water quality does not pose a threat for recreationists during the swimming season. There are some aspects of the lake that need to be improved before the swimming area meets the standards desired. None of the measurements of 2012 indicates an exceeding of the limitations as set-up by authorities. Regarding desirability, turbidity levels exceed American legislation (no Dutch legislation present), within the lake due to sand extraction activities, wind and agricultural runoff. Improvement of the turbidity conditions is only desired, and not required by law. The threat of the formation of cyanobacteria is present, but 2012 results showed no toxic concentrations present in the lake.

The results of 2012 showed no exceeding of faecal pollutant limits in the water, but limits were exceeded in other years. The threats regarding faecal bacteria are therefore present en should be taken into account when advising citizens on the usage of the swimming area.

No immediate actions need be taken in order for the development of the area for the development of tourism, but it is necessary to monitor the water quality during the swimming season, because the water in Eeltjemeer could potentially become a threat for human safety.

2.3 Flora and fauna This chapter will describe the current situation related to Flora and Fauna in the Eeltjemeer area as well as possible problems that might occur when constructing the terp. Advice will be given on how to overcome these possible problems and mitigate construction effects on animals and plants.

2.3.1 Nature legislation In the Netherlands there is a law for general provisions in the environment (WABO) which makes it possible for citizens and entrepreneurs to apply for permits for land change projects and construction work. In order to obtain a permit, the commissioner should hire someone to perform an environmental impact assessment (section 2.3), which consists of several aspects such as: flora and fauna, water quality, fine dust, noise pollution and so on. A considerable part which was not mentioned in the previous section, involves protection of nature.

Nature in The Netherlands is protected in two different ways. One way is the protection of nature reserves by the nature protection law that originated in 1998, and assures that areas with important ecological values are protected. These nature reserves can be part of a national program such as the ecological main structure (EHS) or an international program such as the Natura 2000 areas. The assignment of Natura 2000 areas is controlled by strict European guidelines on bird- and habitat protection. The government has also assigned special geese foraging areas and meadow bird (breeding) areas in the Netherlands.

Secondly, nature is protected by the Flora and fauna law which focuses on (endangered) plant- and animal species. The Dutch flora and fauna law states that every citizen needs to take care of wildlife and their direct living space. This encompasses that everyone who realises that his or her actions has a negative effect on flora and fauna, should halt their actions and/or should take measures to prevent any negative effects (art 2. “Duty of care article”). Articles 8 – 12 apply to land change projects regarding endangered plant- and animal species. The Flora and fauna articles and further explanation on this law and the consequences can be found in appendix IV c.

2.3.2 Relevant ecological values The area of Eeltjemeer is not included in any nature reserve assigned by the government. Figure 8 shows all the areas with ecological values according to ‘Natuurbeleidsplan 2011’ (provincie Fryslân)

Figure 8 - A part of a Topographical map of the municipality of Dantumadiel, showing relevant nature areas (1:25000). Adjusted from BügelHajema (2011), Copyright: dienst voor het kadaster en openbare dienstverlening, Apeldoorn (2011).

Natura 2000 The quality of Nature-2000 areas is highly dependent on the conditions of nearby areas. For example, geese species often need more foraging space outside of a Natura 2000 area. Therefore, the implementation of plans should be considered, when the activities affect the ecological values of the Natura 2000 area (Wymenga & Attema 2009). The closest Natura 2000 area is the ‘Grote Wielen’, which is more than 8 kilometres away (not shown on the map).

Ecological main structure (EHS) Like Natura 2000, the areas that are part of the EHS are highly dependent on the conditions of nearby areas. The map shows that the EHS is in the south of the municipality Dantumadiel. The area that is the closest to the Eeltjemeer is “It Houtwiel” which is approximately 6 kilometres away from Eeltjemeer.

Geese foraging areas/meadow bird fields The open landscape of the Bûtenfjild is very suitable for geese and other birds. The conservation of this landscape type is essential (Wymenga & Attema 2009, Streekplan Fryslân 2007). There are no official geese foraging areas or meadow bird fields next to Eeltjemeer. The closest geese foraging area is next to the Tusken Lytsen, approximately 3 kilometres from the planning area.

Other nature areas Besides the nature reserves that are incorporated in the EHS, there are some areas in the vicinity of Eeltjemeer that are designated as “beheergebieden” because of a special biotope or special species. These areas are almost all managed by Staatsbosbeheer. Policy regarding projects for spatial planning and development are less strict for these areas, however there needs to be a scientific evaluation on possible effects (Streekplan Fryslân 2007). The map shows that three of these areas: the “Tusken Lytsen”, “Rietveld” and “Klaarkampster Mar” are close to the planning area. Besides that, there are a couple of nature lanes north-east of the planning area.

Flora and fauna In order to assess the present ecological values around the Eeltjemeer, we also made an inventory on the flora and fauna. We used several sources to gather information, namely:

 Nationale databank Flora and Fauna” (NDFF)  Fryslân digitale natuur atlas” (DNA Fryslân)  Reptielen Amfibieën Vissen Onderzoek Nederland (RAVON)  Zoogdieratlas (ZDA)  Flora en Fauna onderzoek Eeltjemeer (Tonckens, 2009)

Tonckens ecology performed a flora and fauna inventory in 2009 which was commissioned by sand exploitation Eeltjemeer VOF. This was done, because the sand exploitation company wished to extract sand from three plots in the north-western part of Eeltjemeer. In January 2009, Tonckens performed a quickscan to make a shortlist of possible plant- and animal species in the area. It was found that the existing biotopes around Eeltjemeer are not suitable for any endangered plant species, since the riparian biotope contains too much nutrients. Furthermore, the intensive management of the banks hinders the establishment of endangered aquatic and riparian vegetation. For animals however, the quickscan showed that there are several biotopes that could support endangered species. The extensive assessment which was performed later that year in September showed that several endangered animal species are indeed present in the area of Eeltjemeer. Together with information from other databases, a complete inventory on the present fauna was made which can be seen in table 7.

The inventory shows that there are several endangered animal species present in and around the Eeltjemeer. As explained in appendix IV c, it is possible to obtain an exemption for species that are listed under protection level 1 since the project of the ‘Wetterterp’ will entail operational works on spatial development and landscape planning. For species that are listed under protection level 2 (Spined loach), the operational works should be performed according to an approved code of conduct which is demonstrable. This code should describe how the damage of the construction works will be minimized in order to spare the Spined loach. The Eurasian Water shrew, Moor frog and European Bitterling are all listed under protection level 3. This means that an extensive investigation needs to be performed in order to get an exemption from the minister of Economic affairs. The home range of birds (the total sum of area they use for living) is very extensive; this is why the Flora and fauna law focuses on the occurrence of breeding nests. The four birds that were observed to breed near Eeltjemeer; Mallard, Eurasian coot, Oystercatcher and Eurasian Skylark are also listed under protection level 2 (but require the tests of level 3 (Tonckens 2009). In the next paragraph we will assess the effects of the operational works on the aforementioned species.

Table 7 - shows all the (possibly) present protected Fauna species in and around the Eeltjemeer. Confirmed species are bold

Location Level of Red list Source Type Species (E=Eeltjemeer protection , N=nearby) (FF law)

Mammals Woodmouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) E 1 Tonckens (2009) Common vole (Microtus arvalis) E 1 Tonckens (2009) Commons shrew (Sorex araneus) E 1 Tonckens (2009) European mole (Talpa europaea) E 1 Tonckens (2009) European hare (Lepus europaeus) E 1 Tonckens (2009) Eurasian water shrew (Neomys N 3 DNA Fryslân, ZDA (2013), fodiens) NDFF N 3 Kuyper et al. 2006, ZDA Pond bat (Myotis dasycneme (2005) E 1 Tonckens (2009), ZDA (2009) Weasel (Mustela nivalis ssp. Vulgaris)

Amphibians Edible frog (Pelophylax kl. Esculentus) E 1 Tonckens (2009) Moor frog (Rana arvalis) E 3 Tonckens (2009), NDFF, RAVON Natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) E/N 3 Tonckens (2009) Common newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) E 1 Tonckens (2009) Marsh frog (Pelophylax ridibundus) E 1 Tonckens (2009) common frog, Rana temporaria E 1 Tonckens (2009) common toad (Bufo Bufo) E 1 Tonckens (2009)

Birds Mallard(Anas platyrhynchos) E 3 Tonckens (2009) Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) E 3 Tonckens (2009) Oystercatcher (Haematopus E 3 Tonckens (2009) ostralegus) E 3 Tonckens (2009) Euarasian Skylark (Alauda arvensis) E 3 Tonckens (2009) Common Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) E 3 Tonckens (2009) Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus E 3 Tonckens (2009) scirpaceus) Marsh Warbler (Acrocephalus palustris) Fish Spined loach (Cobitis taenia) E 2 DNA Fryslân, Tonckens (2009) European bitterling (Rhodeus amarus) E 3 DNA Fryslân, RAVON (2011)

2.3.3 Effect determination

Nature areas Depending on the effects of the operational works (and the eventual terp) on relevant ecological values around the Eeltjemeer, there is need for an action plan to assure compensation and mitigation. Because of the considerable distance, the Natura 2000 areas and the Ecological Main Structure areas won’t be affected by the project. Regarding the other nature areas, including the meadow bird area in the south of the Tusken Lytsen, there could be a slight effect on migrating and foraging birds. 47

The distance between these nature areas and the planning area is less than 2 kilometres. Especially for birds, which have a large home range, it could mean they will lose surface indirectly.

Flora and fauna There is a high possibility that the operational works and the eventual terp will have effects on the present endangered species. Compensation and mitigation would therefore be required for the species that are listed under protection level 3, since one of the criteria for the extensive investigation is: ‘shall not affect the favourable conservation status of the species’. For the spined loach, which is listed under protection level 2, a proper Code of Conduct should be prepared. To get a first idea, we will briefly discuss the possible main effects of the future terp and the operational work involved and the most important recommended compensation and mitigation efforts for each species. The ‘Dienst Regelingen loket’ of the ‘Rijksoverheid’ has prepared species factsheets on ecological requirements, possible threats and mitigation measures for vulnerable species in The Netherlands. The factsheets that might apply to the Eeltjemeer area are about the bitterling, spined loach and the moor frog. The factsheets can be found at the website of the department of economic affairs.

Spined loach The spined loach is present throughout the Netherland in ditches, canals, channels, rivers, streams, ponds and lakes. This fish species is not really endangered on a national scale. The disturbance of local communities by eutrophication and overdue dredging are the main reasons why the spined loach is protected on level 2 (RAVON). The hypoxic conditions cause a decline in food resources, which eventually cause deterioration of the spined loach population. Severe dredging could also seriously harm this species. If the project plan entails extending and deepening of the Eeltjemeer, this needs to be taken into account. The Code of Conduct should therefore be focused on the performance of gradual dredging. The spined loach hides in the vegetation or buries himself in the sand during daytime; therefore we would advise that vegetation should be spared during the operational works. Tonckens’ advice is to work according to the Code of Conduct made by the Wetterskip. (‘Gedragscode Flora- en faunawet voor waterschappen’, approved by the minister of LNV 10 July 2006).

Eurasian water shrew The Eurasian water shrew is mainly distributed in the provinces with a high proportion of wetlands (Fryslân, North-West Overijssel), since the water shrew needs water in its habitat (Zoogdiervereniging). An important requirement is a well-developed shrub vegetation near the banks since he needs space to withdraw to eat his prey. Since a couple of decennia, the number of water shrews is strongly declining because of water pollution, the disappearance of gravel banks and stream channelization. If tourism will increase in the area of the Eeltjemeer, it is therefore important that water quality is monitored frequently, since increased use of the area as swimming water can cause new pollution. Furthermore, parts aligning the water which are moist and have a well- developed shrub layer should be secured and assigned as restricted access area.

Moor frog The moor frog is often found at higher elevations, moist heath areas where peat is formed and in low elevated peaty areas like the Eeltjemeer. High moisture levels and peat are important factors in the biotope of the moor frog (RAVON). Besides this, the moor frog prefers banks with high riparian vegetation or low shrubs. For their reproduction, they need stagnant, shallow water. Before commencing operational works, the reproduction sites of the moor frog need to be located and it needs to be assured that these locations remain undisturbed and clean throughout the project. The reproduction waters of the frog could easily be contaminated by the construction works (building materials, diesel oil). Because the moor frog hibernates on the land and therefor travels from the reproduction waters to their hibernation location on the land, there should be an investigation on the routes of the frog. Increased traffic due to the touristic terp pose a serious threat on the safety of the journey (RAVON). Therefore, construction traffic is not allowed in the period of February 1th to April 1th between sunset and sunrise. The hibernation location itself should also remain protected which means nature management practises (removal of trees and shrubs) should be carried out with care.

European Bitterling The European Bitterling mainly occurs in river areas, coastal areas and low lying bog areas. Within these areas, the bitterling is found in broader ditches and canals (RAVON). Furthermore, this fish prefers stagnant or slowly flowing waters with developed vegetation. In order to reproduce, the bitterling needs the presence of freshwater mussels (Painter’s mussel and Swan mussel) to insert their eggs and sperm. Here for, the Bitterling is vulnerable for intense cleaning management of lakes, because the mussels will end up on the banks (RAVON). Since bitterlings are only pubescent after 2 years and they never get older than 5 years (Gerstmeier & Romig, 1998), the removal of freshwater mussels will cause the disappearance of multiple age classes. An important mitigation effort therefore is the manual restoration of the freshwater mussels whenever they end up on the banks, because of the construction works (De Jong 2002).

Birds Only four bird species were observed to be breeding in Eeltjemeer; Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra), Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) and the Eurasian Skylark (Alauda arvensis) (Tonckens 2009). These species only use their nests in the breeding season, since they are not on the list of birds that use their nests year-round. All bird species that were reported to be present in the Bûtenfjild area (unknown whether they were also breeding), also only use their nests in the breeding season (Nijland 2012). Therefor planning construction of the terp outside the breeding season will greatly decrease disturbance. Since construction of the terp falls within the category of landscape planning and development, a Code of Conduct needs to be developed and an exemption is not necessary. This code should at least consider performing operational works outside the breeding season, since it is not possible to get exemption on this matter.

2.3.4 Recommendation and conclusions Since the Tusken Lytsen and the adjacent meadow bird field are close to the area where the terp is planned, more research is needed on the possible effects of the terp on these areas. The current state of the Tusken Lytsen and the adjacent meadow bird area could possibly lose value, because of increased tourism (disturbance) and decreased openness. There are plans to improve the connection between Eeltjemeer and Tusken Lytsen to re-establish old waterways and promote the passage of tourism related vessels. We would therefore recommend further investigation on the occurrence of meadow birds in these areas and examine to what extent the birds make use of the area between the Eeltjemeer and the Tusken Lytsen.

Regarding the endangered species in the area of Eeltjemeer, there are several species that need special attention before, during and after the establishment of the terp. These are:

 Spined Loach (level 2)  Eurasian water shrew (level 3)  Moor frog (level 3)  European Bitterling (level 3)  Birds (level 2)

Before commencing the construction works, there needs to be an inventory done by a professional ecologist on the exact location of the species that are mentioned in section 2.3. This inventory is also important since our major source for the current species composition is dating from 2009 (Tonckens 2009). It is possible that additional endangered species are present in the planning area. Unlike the judgement on the nature areas (which needs to be done by the province itself), the judgement regarding the flora and fauna law need to be done by an ecologist. When the exact location is known, specific code of conduct and specific mitigation and compensation efforts can be decided. For example, we recommended that the hibernation spots of the moor frog and the courses of the water shrew in the banks should be spared in order to pass the criteria of the extensive test. An ecologist needs to confirm that these animal shelters are really there so that no useless efforts are performed.

Chapter 3 – Technological construction In this chapter we will discuss the constructional demands and constrains. We will start of on the general functional demands of the terp. It will be discussed how the terp can meet the demands of the landscape, how it can fulfil an educational and historical function and how it can attract tourists. All these demands will lead to certain constrains and trade-offs on the construction of the ‘Wetterterp’. Hereafter, we will go deeper into the technical aspects of the ‘Wetterterp’. In order to successfully realize an edifice a terp in the Eeltjemeer, which will be durable and which meets the demands of the legislation of all involved authorities, several aspects concerning the appearance as well as the technical aspects need to be taken into account. First of all, the quality demands concerning the used material need to be taken into account. It is prohibited to use material of lesser quality then the material present prior to the construction. Also, the executor is not allowed to work without close collaboration with the authority responsible for the water quality of the area. Furthermore, the used dredge needs to be taken into consideration, as well as the possible effects on several aspects concerning the soil. Regarding the construction site of Eeltjemeer, the soil consists mostly of peat. Constructing on peat needs to take several bottlenecks into consideration before the realization of the edifice can be accomplished without any problem on the long-term. Possible dangers and associated solutions are discussed.

3.1 Demands and constraints on design In the previous chapter on the environment, we have already dealt with some issues regarding the landscape. We have explained that the area surrounding the planning area is open and that it would be ideal to create a terp that fits into the landscape (section 2.1) Besides this, one needs to keep in mind that the terp should reflect the Frisian history which favours, amongst others, educational purposes. This will set some demands to the construction of the terps. In this section the most important demands and constraints on building a touristic terp are discussed. After that it will be discussed how the ‘Wetterterp’ project can deal with these different functional demands.

3.1.1 Constraints on recreational intensity The nota on spatial development of the municipality of Dantumadiel (Nota ruimtelijk beleid buitengebied Dantumadiel 2010-2020) provides guidelines on recreation and tourism in the Bûtenfjild area. Recreation should be mainly focused on shared use. According to the nota, the municipality should give way to small scale recreational recreation which preferably takes place close to one of the villages. The most important target group is the tourist that seeks tranquillity and who want to enjoy the beauty of nature and the landscape (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b). The structure vision map (figure 10) of the municipality shows where different forms of recreation and tourism are allowed to take place. It can be seen that around the Eeltjemeer there is space for autarchic recreation and a potential for a daily touristic recreation spot (involving small scale facilities) according to the map. Autarchic recreation is a form of recreation in which you do not use any provided facilities, but bring your own furniture/food, e.g. picnicking, swimming.

Figure 9 - Structure vision map of part of the municipality of Dantumadiel, showing main aspects of the zoning scheme including areas destined for infrastructure, recreation and energy (Adjusted from Bügelhajema Adviseurs, 2011).

The ‘Buitengebied nota’ could have serious implications on the design and construction of the ‘Wetterterp’. According to this nota and the structure vision map of the proving, the area surrounding Eeltjemeer needs to remain suitable for recreationists that seek tranquillity. Furthermore, the area is originally not designated to have a form of ‘extensive recreation,’ just autarchic and/or small scale recreation (see figure 9).

Paragraph 3.1.1. on ‘spatial quality’ in the same municipality nota, mentions that future projects should clearly state how the project is going to give meaning to the core qualities and the maintained recognition of the landscape. This will constraint the building typology and characteristics, forms of buildings, the kind of material and use of colours. Obviously, a hyper modern building would not fit in Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild. The notion on colour use implies that the colours of the building on the terp should not deviate from natural colours in the environment so that the two can merge together.

3.1.2 Constraints on design characteristics

Height and size An important constraint is height and size. A clay terp is between 2 and 10 meters high with on top of the terp a house or sometimes a whole village. The highest terp of the Netherlands is ‘Hegebeintum’ which is 8.8m above NAP (figure 10). One can imagine that if the ‘Wetterterp’ would have this height, with an even higher surface, the openness of the surrounding landscape gets jeopardized. As shown in figure 10a, terps often contain high trees or a middle-centred church which will disturb openness even more. Regarding the size, the planning area in the North-east corner of the Eeltjemeer could give room to a terp of around 35x35 meters which is 1225 m2. This would be big enough for a small museum and a restaurant with a terrace. 52

Figure 10 - (a) picture of the terp Hegebeintum (Joost de Vree) (b) Radial structure of the terp Biesum around the year 1840 (chris van Keulen)

Shape and Placement The shape of historical terps is most of the time circular with a radial structure which can be seen in figure 10b. In order to reflect the Frisian terps as good as possible it is preferable to adopt this circular shape. However, these structures are mostly seen in larger terps which contain entire villages. Since the ‘Wetterterp’ will not contain an entire village, the radial structure will be hard to demonstrate.

Another important factor related to placement and shape of the terp is that the terp should attract tourists. The ‘Wetterterp’ needs to be designed in such a way that it sets itself apart from other existing (touristic) terps, since these can be competitors in attracting tourists. Due to the constraints on size and height, this is not an easy task. An important feature, which is not shown by other (touristic) terps, is the visualization of the ‘battle’ against the water. Touristic terps such as Hegebeintum do not demonstrate this. This could be an opportunity for the ‘Wetterterp’: the terp could be placed next to water of the Eeltjemeer or even inside the water. This would not only set the ‘Wetterterp’ aside from other terps but would also increase educational value. In order to construct a terp in the water of the Eeltjemeer, one option would be to extend the water of the Eeltjemeer around the water (Figure 2, Introduction).

An important constrain would be the issues that are mentioned in the previous chapter on the environment. The construction works would also be situated in the Eeltjemeer which will have considerable effects on flora and fauna in the lake itself and on the surrounding banks. An opportunity in the case would be to ‘create’ new nature. If the lake would indeed be extended around the terp, it might be possible to extend the water to ‘the murk’. In this way, the project will compensate the negative effects by creating dozens of meters ‘new’ habitat in the banks.

3.1.3 Conclusion and Recommendations The Eeltjemeer area should serve as an autarchic zone with a potential to serve as recreational area with small scale facilities. According to the municipality, the focus should be on tranquillity, the beauty of the (open) landscape and maintained recognition of the landscape. Therefore, it is recommended to build the terp with a height of between 2 and 4 meters. The museum could be partly underground so that the height of the building on the terp remains limited as well. In order to reflect the historical situation, the museum could serve as the central point of the terp which will resemble the radial structure. 53

Around the museum and restaurant there is space for paths and terraces, which could be ‘radially’ designed. Material and building forms should be as traditional as possible, while colour use could serve as a tool to connect the terp with the natural landscape.

To counteract the constraints on height and size, which make the ‘Wetterterp’ more or less ‘invisible’ in the landscape there needs to be a way to make the project more “exciting”. A great possibility for the ‘Wetterterp’ would be the placement close to the water or even inside the water which was already mentioned by E. Wymenga (Pers. comm. E. Wymenga 2013), see section 2.1. This could have negative effects on the environment, but at the same time could be turned to something positive in the form of compensation by creating ‘new’ nature.

3.2 Construction related legislation

3.2.1 Quality demands When constructing a terp with dredged material, legislation is maintained on the basis of ‘Besluit bodemkwaliteit,’ which focuses on the preservation or improvement of the soil in order to maintain the quality assurance of the soil management (Besluit bodemkwaliteit 2008). It is therefore not allowed to use dredge of lesser quality then the soil on which the construction will be made. In order to obtain a planning permission, an acknowledged sampler of soil should be put in use. Considering sampling for the soil, individual personal registration and segregation of functions are needed. Also, the soil must be examined in an acknowledged laboratory. Recognition of the sampler is provided by the Ministry of Volksverhuizing, Ruimtelijke ordening en Milieubeheer (VROM) and the Ministry of Verkeer en Waterstaat (V&W). A company or person is able to get recognition when they meet the following obligations:

 The company or person possesses a valid certificate concerning the work requested.  The company or person shows integrity. This means the applicant didn’t cross any statutory regulation concerning soil management the past 3 years.  The company or person is not in a state of bankruptcy or suspension of remuneration.

Besides the national legislation maintained by VROM and V&W, local authorization considering the usage of dredged material for local application is also considered. The distribution of tasks for the local authorities is displayed in table 8.

Table 8 – Task division local authorities

Administrative Authorization for Municipality The application of soil or dredge material within its own management area ‘Waterschap’ The application or spreading of soil or dredge material in waters not owned by ‘Rijkswaterstaat’ Province No authorities are distributed to the province ‘Rijkswaterstaat’ The application or spreading of soil or dredge material in waters owned by ‘Rijkswaterstaat’

Since dredged material will be used from a body of water which will adjoin with the construction, ‘Besluit bodemkwaliteit’ states that there is no duty of reporting, unless the amount of dredged material is over 50 m3. For the construction of the terp at Eeltjemeer, it is estimated that 25.000 – 100.000 m3 is needed (van Duijvenbode et al. 2003). 54

This indicates that for the construction of the terp with the use of dredged material from Eeltjemeer, a duty of reporting is necessary before the start of the construction. For the construction of an edifice with a volume over 5000 m3 and a minimum height of 2m, a particular assessment framework can be taken into account in order to effectively realize the construction. It has to be noted that the applicant is not mandatory for the use of this assessment framework, and can use the usual framework as described in ‘Besluit bodemkwaliteit’ (2008). The particularity of the framework for large edifices is that the quality and function of the receiving bottom does not need to be tested. However, the framework can only be used with the condition that the environment is sufficiently protected regarding quality demands and application terms. When considering large edifices, standards for ground and dredge materials are based on emission values, rather than on the quality of the receiving soil. Dredge is not allowed to cross the maximum values for industrial use and is not allowed to cross the intervention values of water sediment. When the quality of the dredge does not meet the standards for emission key values, a leaching analysis needs to be conducted in order to see if the dredge does meet these standards. The edifice must also contain a topsoil of at least 0,5 meters which is of the same quality as the soil in the surrounding environment.

3.2.2 Watertoets Legislation considering the building of a large edifice in water is considered in the ‘watertoets’. The ‘watertoets’ is a fairly new method that makes sure the interests of the water managers are guaranteed. It’s demanded to run through the ‘watertoets’ for every project concerning water management, as well as decisions made by the government, the provinces and the municipalities. The ‘watertoets’ does not deviate from original legislation, but acts as a tool that guarantees close collaboration between the water manager and the entrepreneur. Since the terp will be partly build in Eeltjemeer a ‘watertoets’ should be implemented. Wetterskip Fryslân is responsible for the managing of Eeltjemeer. For the project ‘Wetterterp’, collaboration between Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild and Wetterskip Fryslân is required in order to go through the ’watertoets’. The ‘watertoets’ consists of 5 steps that has to be considered (Appendix V) that determine the eventual implementation and management of the construction (Handreiking Watertoetsprocess 3 2009).

3.2.3 Dredge material For the construction of the terp, it is desirable to limit the costs as much as possible. Since Eeltjemeer is used for sand extraction, it would be obvious to use material from these extraction activities. For possible usage for the construction of the terp, only the extracted top soil is available (Eeltjemeer V.O.F. 2012). Zandexploitatie Eeltjemeer V.O.F. indicated that 50.000 m3 will be available for purposes not yet known. This material could be used for the construction of the terp. Van Duijvenbode et al. (2003) stated that a terp created for human purposes should contain at least 25.000 m3 to 100.000 m3 of material. In order to start the process of construction, it is very important to make sure that enough building material is available in order to finish the construction without any delay. It is advised to make clear agreements with the supplier of material about the properties of the construction project in order to reduce the possibility of misconceptions.

Since pollutant monitoring determined that the soil surrounding Eeltjemeer is not polluted (BügelHanjema adviseurs 2012), it is expected that the dredged material obtained by Eeltjemeer V.O.F. is not polluted as well. In order to determine the usefulness of the dredged material, the following steps need to be considered as described in appendix V in order to make sure that the excavated top soil meets the standards needed for the construction of the terp.

3.2.4 Land use According to Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport (ILT), the authority determining the risks for soil quality, the creation of a new structure in the landscape is rated as an operation with large effects on space usage and recovery of soil or water in time. The effects are subdivided in (1) scale of the effect, and (2) resilience of the soil or the water. Both effects are then measured in 3 gradations. For the scale of effect the gradations are:

 A change of state at the location of the operation. No influence on the appearance of the surroundings (up to a couple of square meters)  A change of state on local scale of the operation. The change of state will have an influence on the appearance of the surroundings for a couple of hectares.  A change of state on regional scale of the operation. The change of state will have an influence on the appearance of the surrounding for a couple of square kilometres.

For resilience of the soil or the water the gradations are:

 Recovery takes place short after the changes. (large resilience)  Recovery takes place after a long time period. (small resilience)  Changes do not recover over time. (irreversible)

Considering both gradations leads to the effect matrix with a scale from 1 - 5 as described in table 9.

Table 9 - Scale of change vs. Resilience matrix.

Resilience Scale of change Large Small Irreversible At location 1 2 3 Local change 2 3 4 Regional change 3 4 5

Taking this gradation matrix into consideration, the following qualification of effects was set up in order to determine the effects of an operation (table 10).

Table 10 – categorization of operational effects

1 = negligible effect 2 = limited effect 3 = average effect 4 = large effect 5 = very large effect

These ratings of effect can then be given to a number of aspects that need to be taken into consideration when starting an operation which leads to the construction of a terp. The following aspects, graded according to ‘Risicoanalyse bodembreed’ (2012), slightly adapted for the construction of a terp instead of a regular building, need to be taken into account (table 11):

Table 11 – Aspects that need to be taken into account when building the terp.

chemical

al / mechanical / al

Chemical

Soil Hydro Ecological Physic Hydrological Geological Archaeological requirement Space surface requirement Space depth soil of Covering health Human safety Food 4 3 2 4 1 3 1 2 2 2 2 2

A short description per aspect, according to the construction of a terp in the Eeltjemeer area is described below:

Soil-chemical Soil-chemistry is the total of equilibriums, conversions and processes that take place in the soil moisture. These processes are determined by the mineral composition of the soil, amount of organic material, climate and environmental factors. Soil-chemical effects are the (unnatural) processes that change the composition of substances in the soil. The creation of the terp shall have a large effect of the composition of the soil. Since the soil consist mostly of peat, adjustment to the soil need to be made in order to make it suitable for the construction of a large edifice. Adding chemical mixtures to empower the soil, or adding cement to the soil, will have a large effect on the composition of the soil and the equilibriums within the soil en thus on the Soil-chemical quality of the surrounding environment.

Hydro-chemical Hydro-chemistry is the total of equilibriums, conversions and processes that take place in the ground water. The quality of the ground water is determined by different parameters including temperature, acidity, redox potential, electrical conductivity and oxygen content. As described above, the building on a peaty underground can have a plausible effect on the ground water quality. Changing the composition of the soil has a direct effect on the ground water characteristics. Adding chemical mixtures en changing the characteristics of the soil in the environment can lead to alternative equilibriums and therefore have a potential large effect on short-term on the ground water quality in the direct surroundings of the construction site.

Ecological effects Ecological effects are effects on the density and composition of organisms, landscapes and surface waters. Almost all human activities have an effect on nature. Since the construction of the terp is on a small scale in an area which is sparsely populated by humans, recovery of original or the development of alternative ecological equilibriums is present and nature’s ability to adapt will be fairly large. Creating an anthropogenic situation in a sparsely populated area might provide new opportunities for nature or otherwise will have a small effect.

Physical/mechanical effects These effects consider the effects on the soil quality and composition due to the creation of a terp. The solidity of the peat undergrounds is low, where-as the water content is high. For the creation of the terp, it is necessary to locally alter the composition of the soil, changing its characteristic into an underground suitable for the support of the edifice. In order to effectively realize the project, the physical/mechanical effects will be high.

Hydrological effects Hydrology in this project is considered as the behaviour and characteristics of the ground water (ground water level and current). The hydrology in the area is on such a scale that the construction of a terp will have negligible effects on the eventual hydrological characteristics in the area, especially when taking into account that the ground water level is already kept on a lower level artificially.

Geological effects Geology is considered as the geomorphological, geological, edaphological and geohydrological phenomena, who together determine the history and the construction of the landscape. The construction of the terp will have an effect on the landscape, as well as on the soil as on the landscape above ground. The terp will act as an alien edifice on a particularly flat landscape and will be built on a sub-surface that needs to be altered in order to be suitable for the support of the edifice. Therefore, the geological effects will be large.

Archeological effects In Eeltjemeer area, no archaeological objects were detected historically. However as explained in section 2.1 the landscape on the bank of Eeltjemeer close to the plan area is classified by the municipality as: Archaeological expectation value 2. Therefore, the effects on archaeology will be dependent on drilling samples.

Effect on space requirements on the surface Within the area of Eeltjemeer, the space requirements for the construction of the terp will be fairly small, but it will close of the sub-surface from natural processes and functions. Therefore, the effects on space requirements will be small, but not negligible.

Effects on spare requirements on depth The effects on depth will be almost negligible. The construction needs to be firm, so it needs to be constructed underground for stability. Some space is needed, for the construction of drains and sewerage, as well as cable for electricity. These installations require some space, but won’t have a large effect on the deeper layers of the underground. The effects on depth will be small but not negligible.

Covering soil Hardening and sealing of the soil will have an effect on the run-off of rainwater, but on a small scale. These aspects have a large effect on constructions on regional scale like cities. For the terp in the Eeltjemeer area, the water can just escape in the lake with minor effort of drainage. The effects of hardening and sealing will thus have a small, almost negligible effect.

Human health Since the construction will most likely be built with substances that are not polluted, the risk of human health due to pollutants used in the construction of the terp is negligible. The use of chemicals for the stabilization of the peat however needs to be taken into account. Possible leakage of harmful chemicals might occur and it is advised to consider the usage of different chemical treatments before the construction of the edifice.

Food safety For this subheading, the same is applicable for human health. The usage of chemicals might influence the quality of the ground water. Since the area is mostly surrounded by agricultural ground, the possible leakage of harmful chemicals needs to be taken into consideration.

Overall The greatest bottlenecks which brings along the most risks considering the construction of the terp, is the stabilization of the peat. It is necessary to stabilize the peat before the start of the construction. A lot of uncertainties come along with the alteration of the soil properties and need to be studied in order to understand the effects these changes can have on several aspects that need to be taken into account when constructing a new edifice.

3.3 Soil properties Peat soil is characterized as a very soft, difficult soil with low shear strength, high organic matter content, low bearing capacity and high compressibility (Akol 2012). In order to realize construction on peat soil, there are certain points that need to be considered. The nature of peats makes it often a problematic soil for construction (Kazemian et al. 2011). Since the main contents of the peat is organic matter, it is very spongy, and combustible. The typical properties of peat distinguishes it from other types of soils such as clay and sandy soil (Kazemian et al. 2011). In addition, the content of peat differs from location to location due to different factors such as fibre content, temperature, climate differences and humidity. Akol (2012) has shown that peat soils experience instability and massive primary and long term consolidation settlements when subjected to moderate load increase.

The history of terp construction shows that terps were constructed on clay soil with peat. However, to construct a terp on a peaty soil, certain points needs be taken into consideration in order to see the applicability of the peat for construction of a terp. 59

Identification of the peat type should be the first step in order to decide whether it is applicable for the construction of the terp. According to Termatt and Topolnicki (1994) there is type of peat called ''Netherlands peat''. Since it remains unclear what the exact properties are of the peat at Eeltjemeer, we used the properties of this ''Netherland peat type'' for the description of the threats of building on this soil type (Table 12).

Table 12 - shows the characteristics of Dutch peat soil

Natural water Bulky density Specific gravity Acidity (PH) Ash content (%) 3 content (w, %) (Mg/m (Gs)

669 0.97 1.52 - 20.8

The results from table 20 indicate that the ash content of the Netherlands peat type is high. The organic content of peat is dependent on the ash content (Said and Taib 2009). Therefore, the high ash content indicates that Netherlands peat has a high organic matter fraction. The high organic matter content of this type of peat will make the peat very spongy, compressible as well as combustible, leading to problems for the construction of the terp.

In addition, the natural water content of the Netherlands peat type is also high. This also makes the use of the peat soil unfavourable for the construction of the terp, since compressibility characteristic of the peat is also dependent on the natural water content. According to Kazemian et al. (2011) the fibre content of peat can increase the shear strength of the peat. Shear strength is considered as one of the most important parameters in engineering design and decision making when dealing with soil, especially during pre-and post-construction. In order to test the shear strength of the peat near Eeltjemeer, it needs to be cheeked on fibre content before construction. It is important to determine the fibre content, since the ultimate shear strength could also be exceeded after eventual treatment when fibre content proves to be high, resulting in deformation of soil. The shear strength of peat generally can be found out in multiple ways. In-situ methods such as the vane shear test and the cone penetration test are very useful and these tests can be used to avoid many of the problems related with sampling error (Kazemian et al. 2011).

Since peat soil has a high magnitude and a high rate of creep, it is considered as unfavourable soil for construction (Akol 2012). The construction activities also need to consider the magnitude of the damage done to the identified Netherlands peat soil type. The magnitude of damage to the soil depends on applied load, the composition of the soil, past stress history and also the manner in which the stress is applied. The terp construction is considered as a big construction activity. Therefore, it could create high pressure to the soil, resulting in difficulties during construction activities.

Bearing capacity of peat soil is also very low and can be affected by water and the presence of woody debris in the soil. The lower ground water level may also result in the shrinkage and oxidation of peat, leading to its humidification with an increase in compressibility and permeability. (Andriesse 1988, Islam and Hashim 2008).

The nature of peat can be changed due to certain chemical and biological reaction over time. For instance, up on further humidification the organic constituents may change the mechanical properties of peat such as shear strength, compressibility, and hydraulic conductivity. In order to solve this problem, pile foundation is often recommended for building on peat (Kazemian et al. 2011). The pile foundations are used to support the weight of the edifice above the peat soil. This method is preferred since the peat soil is soft. By sinking the foundations down past the softer, less stable surface layer of the peat soil, the foundation provide as strong base for the edifice. The usage of this method is recommendable since the peat is required to carry a very heavy load when the realization of the terp will start.

3.4 Peat quality tests In order to test the shear strength of the peat surrounding Eeltjemeer, the following tests can be applied.

3.4.1 Cone penetration test (CPT) The Cone Penetration Test (CPT) is the most versatile method for in situ soil testing. The method provides information without disturbing the ground. The test gives information about the soil type and geotechnical parameters like shear strength and density. In addition, it is the most economical tool (1). The standard cone consists of a 600 pointed tip with a projected area of 10 m2. The friction sleeve has a surface area of 150 cm2 (Figure 11) (Bailey 2007).

Advantage of using the method  drill rigs used to collect undisturbed sample  relatively time consuming to collect data  superior accuracy and precision compared to typical drilling and testing

Figure 11 - schematic CPT based soil sampler (Robertson and Cabal 2010)

3.4.2 Vane shear test (VST) The vane shear test (VST) is a moderately rapid economic test method to determine the shear strength of deeper soil sample. The equipment and tests are simple to use. It can be carried out in the field, at the bottom of an excavation and in the laboratory with a confined specimen. The test involves pushing a four bladed vane into the peat soil stratum and slowly rotate from the surface down at a standard rate of 0.1 degrees per second.

The vane test can be executed either at the bottom of the peat of a pre-drilled hole or in the peat itself by merely pushing the vane rods to the desired depth. The first step is measuring the peak torque which is related to the peak shear strength. After the peal torque is measured, the vane should be quickly rotated about ten times to plow the soil. This helps to measure the torque again and then the ploughed shear strength can be determined. Further explanation of these calculations and their assumptions can be found in appendix V.

3.5 Peat treatment

Soil improvement This is a vital role in geotechnical engineering as it is the only way to stabilize and enhance the properties of soils. Soil improvement mostly focuses on modifying and stabilizing the soil. Stabilizing the soil is the first criteria to construct on soft soils like peat (Kazemian et al. 2011). In addition, it is the stability of the ground that will affect stability of the structure above it. If structures are placed without any proper ground improvement to provide adequate stability to the ground, failure of the structure may happen. This could cause loss of money and energy. Hence, a proper ground improvement work is essential before starting construction works over peat.

To improve soil stabilization, there are various methods used in the construction industries to improve the peat properties (Akol 2012). These include soil replacement, reinforcement to enhance soil strength, pre loading and stage construction, stone columns, thermal- compressions and preload piers, chemical admixture such as cement and lime (kazemain 2009).

Among all methods, the chemical admixture such as lime or cement is advised for this project, since it is cost effective and economical in terms of time constraints (Akol 2012). The method can be applied by testing how much of the lime can be mixed to the peat to provide optimum strength. Research done by Said and Taib (2009) has shown that when lime is added, the shear strength of the peat soil sample increased figure 12.

Figure 12 - Compressive strength test (Said and Taib 2009)

The above diagram show the result of an unconfined shear strength test. The mixture was crude for 7, 14 and 28 days for comparison. As can be seen from the results, there is strength gain. The result of strength gain from the 28 day crude and the 14 day crude was higher compared to the 7 day mixture crude, indicating increase in strength over time. This method is recommendable as it is economical and effective for the terp construction purpose. In the research Said and Taib (2009), they used carbide lime and discovered that the particle size of carbide lime is similar to peat particle size. Carbide lime can easily be used to stabilize and increase the shear strength of the peat for the construction and support of the terp.

Chapter 4 - Stakeholders

4.1 Current stage In the current stage all involved parties are described and evaluated in the power analysis. An idea of how these stakeholders can contribute to the project is provided per stakeholder. The connection between the stakeholders is visualized in the connection diagram.

4.1.1. Stakeholders Province of Fryslân The province is key stakeholder in this project. Leeuwarden is the cultural capital of Europe 2018 (2018, 2013). This stimulates cultural development in the region in which this project might benefit. The province is responsible for distributing subsidies for projects and it provides licenses. This makes the province an essential stakeholder for the feasibility of the project. In the coalition agreement 2011 – 2015 the province states that it strives for “further developing of the regions to which new roads lead” (Coalitieakkoord 2011-2015, 2011). With the development of the “Centrale As” the Eeltjemeer area becomes more easily accessible from the south (Centrale As, 2013). The province functions as an umbrella organization, financing and supporting multiple projects and organizations in the region. These projects and organizations include the municipalities, ANNO, Friese Merenproject, Noardlike Fryske Wâlden, Gebiedscommissie ‘De Centrale As’ and the Knowledge Atelier.

Municipalities The municipality is the executive body for implementing new plans in the municipalities zoning scheme. The Eeltjemeer area is situated in the municipality of Dantumadiel. The project overview of Dantumadiel, which is a list of multiple active projects and provides a guideline to which aspects a project within the municipality Dantumadiel can comply with. In the case of the ‘Wetterterp’ project is provides an entrance for entrepreneurial activities in Dantumadiel with the focus on innovation and sustainability (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013a). The development of the ‘Wetterterp’ is a category three project with an expenditure of over €200.000,-. This is the highest project category for Dantumadiel. The project is aimed at innovation and sustainability making it an applicable project with project overview of Dantumadiel. Eeltjemeer is identified as “water” area in the zoning scheme of Dantumadiel (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b). The municipality of Dantumadiel consists out of one group of staff and three product groups. Each product group addresses a certain topic within the municipality. The main product group important for project ‘Wetterterp’ is “Romte” (Area). There is a task division within “Romte” as well. The division “Romtlike Oardening en Miljeu” (Spatial planning and environment) is the main division important for this project, since it is responsible for the zoning scheme, planologic damage, soil, water, environment, nature and environmental education, recreation and tourism (Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013c). This makes the task division “Romtlike Oardening en Miljeu the party within the municipality to contact and inform about the project. The organogram of the municipality can be found in appendix 6.

Next to Dantumadiel, there are seven municipalities within ten kilometer radius of Eeltjemeer. These municipalities are: Tytsjerksteradiel, Ferwerderadiel, Dongeradeel, Kollumerland & Nieuwkruisland, Achtkarspelen, Leeuwarden and Leeuwarderadeel (AHN 2012). These municipalities can be affected by the development of a ‘Wetterterp’ in the Eeltjemeer area. Being responsible for the zoning scheme and land-use within the municipality this stakeholder can ‘make or break’ the idea. 64

Village counsels A village counsel has multiple responsibilities. It represents and safe guards the interests of the village within the municipality. It forms the connection between the village community and governmental organizations and other external organization outside the village borders. It also forms the connection between associations in the village. The village counsel is the executive body of village activities and conflict management (Doarpswurk 2013). The village counsels who are connected to the “Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild” network are: - Aldtsjerk [http://www.trynwalden.nl/beheer/aldtsjerk/index.html] - Broeksterwâld [http://www.itkindesign.nl/broeksterwoude/index1.htm] - Damwâld [http://www.itkin.nl/damwoude/] - De Falom [http://www.itkindesign.nl/broeksterwoude/index2.htm] - De Westereen [http://www.westereen-promoasje.nl/] - Feanwâlden/ Feanwâldsterwâl [http://www.dorpsbelangveenwoudeneo.nl/] - Hurdegaryp [http://www.hurdegaryp.nl/] - Ikkerwâld [http://www.deikkerwaldster.nl/] - Mûnein/ Readtsjerk [http://www.trynwalden.nl/beheer/munein_readtsjerk/index.html] - Rinsumageast/ Sibrandahûs [http://itkin.nl/rinsumageest/] - Ryptsjerk [http://www.trynwalden.nl/beheer/ryptsjerk/index.html] (Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild 2013a) One the main goals stated in the ‘Dorpenvisie’ is to develop tourism and recreation. As such, the ‘Wetterterp’ can function as an attraction for tourism and recreation .Village councils can play an important role in the contact with the villagers of the 13 villages. They have the ability of communicating information via local magazines (dorpskranten). They are situated in the village, among the people; they have trust and therefore can play a key role in creating acceptance for the project.

Plattelânsprojekten/ ANNO As of 2001 the province of Fryslân works with “Plattelânsprojekten” (Country side projects). This project organization supports citizens with a project idea to apply for subsidies. These project ideas need to address a natural, cultural & landscape, tourism & recreational of character (Plattelânsprojekten, 2013). The ‘Wetterterp’ project has all these five elements. The Plattelânsprojekten Noord-oost Fryslân is followed up by the Agenda Netwerk Noord-oost (ANNO). This transition is planned for the oncoming year (pers. comm. R. Vos, 2013). ANNO is a long- term planning network to develop and support projects in the North East region of Fryslân. It provides a guideline for the next 20 years on spatial planning and social economic development (ANNO 2011). ANNO helps entrepreneurs and developers apply for funds. This makes ANNO a helpful partner in the preparation phase of the project.

Friese Merenproject The Frisian Lake project is supported by the province of Fryslân. It strives to make Fryslân an even better water tourism attraction as is currently is and increase vacancies in the water sport branch by 30% (Friese meren 2013). The project is partly funded by the European Community, European Fund for Regional Development. The waterways connecting the ‘Wetterterp’ to the surrounding waterways, and the planned waterways to be build can be accommodated under the Friese merenproject.

Fryske Gea It Fryske Gea is a provincial association for nature protection. Core task of the association are maintenance, protection and development of protected nature areas. This includes protection of landscape and cultural-historical values. The association also strives for awareness, education and the experience of nature (It Fryske Gea 2013). The ‘Wetterterp’ can create awareness under the tourist about the former situation of the Bûtenfjild area. As the core task of It Fryske Gea are protection of landscape and cultural-historical values, this party might endure negative and positive effects from the project. At first the situation as it is now is altered (landscape), but after completion the project supports the cultural-historical values of the area and builds on awareness, education and experience of nature. As a conclusion this party benefits on the long-term.

Staatsbosbeheer Staatsbosbeheer is the national nature organization. Staatsbosbeheer is formerly governed by the ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fisheries and since 1998 independent. The organization set it main priorities on: 1) conservation and development of nature and landscape features as a service to nature; 2) Accessibility and enjoyment of nature and landscape features; 3) Embedding the essential value of nature and landscape features in the Dutch society (Staatsbosbeheer 2013). The project supports the conservation and development of nature, adds to the enjoyment and access to nature and creates awareness and educational values to the essential values of nature and landscape of the Bûtenfjild area. The project fits within all values of the Staatsbosbeheer and thereby contributes to the vision of Staatsbosbeheer.

Wetterskip Fryslân The water board is the regional water authority of Fryslân. It arranges integrated maintenance of water- systems, weirs and treatment on a quantitative- and qualitative level while taking the environment into account (Wetterskip 2013a). The water board has a “Keur”. This Keur contains general regulations to which all procedures at and near waterways/ waterworks need to comply. This forms an edition to the zoning scheme of the municipality (Wetterskip Fryslân 2013b, Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b) The area is in need of an awareness creating device that educates the challenges ‘Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild’ faces within the next 20-50 years. This ‘Wetterterp’ can be this device. It Wetterskip can use this project as a preliminary step for future actions. Prepare the region for the developments to come. The Wetterskip has the expertise in working with water and can support the project with their expert opinion.

Dienst Landelijk Gebied Dienst Landelijk Gebied (DLG) is a governmental organization of the ministry of Economic Affairs. The catch phrase of DLG is: “Dienst Landelijk Gebied works today on the landscape of tomorrow”. DLG supports the execution on policy. They strive for a sustainable arranged landscape which allows living, working and recreation in an environment with water and agricultural activities (DLG 2013). DLG can function as the connection to the central government. The organization has good expertise in project management and funding. As DLG works on tomorrow’s landscape, they can share their expert opinion on the development of the project.

Land- en Tuinbouw Organisatie Noord (LTO Noord) The challenge formulated for by LTO Noord states “Room for agricultural entrepreneurs”. The organization focusses on the optimal spatial planning of rural areas for agricultural and horticultural businesses. This includes further development of agricultural structure and water management towards enhancing the position of the two branches (LTO 2013). The agricultural sector endures no negative influence from building a ‘Wetterterp’. The project does create awareness for the following decennia and can thereby prepare the agricultural businesses on future planning. LTO Noord can act as a communicator of this message.

Noardlike Fryske Walden De association Noardlike Fryske Wâlden (NFW) is an umbrella organization of six agricultural environment associations striving for a vitally fit agricultural sector intertwined with the cultural historical landscape and fitting natural values (NFW 2013). Noardlike Fryske Wâlden has similar clients as LTO Noord. The focus of this partner can be used to communicate to these clients. Involving this partner influences the support for the project under the clients of the organization.

Gebiedscommissie ‘De Centrale As’ The project ‘De Centrale As’ is an infrastructural project concerning the development of a new expressway. This road functions as a new trace to connect the North East of Fryslân to the highway Heerenveen – Groningen (A7) via the expressway Leeuwarden – Drachten (N31). This creates a better accessibility to the North East region of Fryslân (Centrale As 2013). The strength of the gebiedscommissie is the product they deliver. The goal of the province “further developing of the regions to which new roads lead” can be implemented to the project due this new connection.

Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild The commission is formed out of three volunteers. The commission has the mandate of the 13 village counsels mentioned above. The purpose of the commission is to create an insight about the opinions and thoughts of the village counsels on the cultural, historical, recreational, agricultural and economical possibilities (Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild 2013).

VVV Lauwersland The VVV Lauwersland is the tourist information point of North East Fryslân combined with the Lauwersmeer area and North West Groningen. It advertises with wadden, wierden and wouden (Wadden, terps, woods). The area of Eeltjemeer is part of the Northern Frisian Woods and connects to the southern edge of the terp area. It housed terps in history and has a water element present. The project can stimulate the touristic activities in the Eeltjemeer area and the tourist information can play an important communicational role (VVV, 2013). Apart from the tourism information centre other tourism related companies can play a role in the communication of the project. These parties are: - Boat rental Dûke Lûk - Camping/ Cheese farm Johanna Hoeve - Het Betere Boerenbed - ‘t Blôte Fuottenpaad

Stichting Klooster Claercamp Klooster Claercamp is a monastery build in 1165. It has been demolished in 1580 after all monasteries where forbidden and because the local authorities were of opinion that the Spanish troops invading during the war would use the monastery to strengthen their position. The association organizes multiple excursions (Claercamp 2013). With a waterway connection between Feanwâlden and Claercamp a historical waterway is restored. Linking this waterway to Eeltjemeer to connect the project to the monastery can increase the connectivity of the terp and contributes to the cultural historical value (pers. comm. O. Hiddema 2013). The association can support the project with promotional activities.

Cultural Historic Centrum “De Schierstins” The building of the cultural historical centre “De Schierstins” is of origin a ‘stins’. The building has strong connection to the monastery Claercamp. The cultural historical centre can support the cultural historical value of the project. Multiple cultural activities are organized by the Schierstins (Schierstins 2013). The centre can support the project with promotional activities.

Knowledge Atelier NO Fryslân The functioning of the Knowledge Atelier North East Fryslân is to act as a meeting spot, innovation and research centre, as well as a network platform for students, lecturers, experts, civil servants, entrepreneurs, civilians and others. Key for the network platform is having sensitivity for the challenges in the rural landscape of North East Fryslân. The Knowledge Atelier is funded by the province and lead partner of the European project Vital Rural Area (Kenniswerkplaats 2013). The knowledge atelier acts as communication guru for the Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild. This communication is the base of the development of this report. With the development of the project the knowledge atelier can continue to function as communication centre.

Altenburg en Wymenga Ecologic Research Altenburg & Wymenga is an independent research and advisory company. It is specialized on ecology and related subjects as water, nature conservation and spatial planning. They have created an ecological development plan for the municipality Tytsjerkstradiel on the Bûtenfjild area in 2009. As experts of the region they can provide the project with expert ecological input and advice on the procedures.

OosterhofHolman OosterhofHolman is a local construction company with multiple activities under which are: infrastructure, environmental techniques, concrete- and water construction, green development, plan development and materials. OosterhofHolman can be consulted for construction related planning and development. The sand depot at Eeltjemeer is owned by OosterhofHolman (OostermanHolman 2013). Construction and development are the specialties of this partner. Not only do they own the sand extraction depot, which is the only other entrepreneur at Eeltjemeer, but they can also exert there expertise in the project.

Ten Kate – Kool Engineering company Ten Kate-Kool is specialized in calculations on water flow and development of data on open waterways and water treatment. The company has experience on policy, service and maintenance. In the development of the project the company can support in advice on constructional activities (TenKate 2013). This partner can exert there water constructional expertise to support the projects development.

4.1.2 Power analysis The order of the stakeholders in the below scheme per sub-category (figure 13) is not dependent on importance. The stakeholders are divided in the sub-categories depending on several criteria that we came up with. These criteria are: - Generates the project work/ money for the organization; - Structure and size of the organization; - Financial support for developing ‘Wetterterp’; - Similar goal as commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild; - Land ownership; - Political power; - Intermediary connections; - Representation of a group of people; - Executive power on the activities; - Generate expert input; - Build image of the organization. (These criteria are developed by means of a brainstorm session with all group members representing all available knowledge and expertise of the group).

High

‘’Subject’’ ‘’Key players’’ Stakeholders with interest and that are Stakeholders with high interest in the project and seriously affected, but have little influence on strong influence on it. this project.  Village counsels  Province of Fryslân  Wetterskip Fryslân  Municipalities  Noardlike Fryske Walden  Fryske Gea  VVV Lauwersland  Staatsbosbeheer  Stichting Klooster Claercamp  Dienst Landelijk Gebied (DLG)  Cultural Historic Centrum ‘De  Land- en Tuinbouw Organisatie Noord Schierstins’ (LTO Noord)  OosterhofHolman  Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild 

Interest Ten Kate – Kool

Protected Keep good relations

‘’The Crowed ‘’ ‘’Context setters’’ Stakeholders with little interest and influence Stakeholders with high influence in the project, but on the project. low interest on the project.  Friese Merenproject  Knowledge Atelier NO Fryslân  Gebiedscommissie ‘De Centrale As’  Plattelânsprojekten/ ANNO

Low priority Monitor

Low High

Influence

Figure 13 – Stakeholder power analysis

4.1.3 Conclusion Apart from the division in which part each stakeholder is divided, the power analysis is supported with a multi criteria analysis (MCA). This analysis can be found in Appendix VI, Table 29. The MCA clearly indicates the province of Fryslân and the municipality of Dantumadiel as most important stakeholders. The top nine stakeholders are made up out of all seven key stakeholders, two subject related stakeholders and one monitor related stakeholder. These stakeholders should be the priority stakeholders for the Commission ‘Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild’. An important note in the MCA is the criteria of landownership. It is unclear to what extent the power of the multiple stakeholders reach concerning the ownership of land surrounding the project area. Therefore other stakeholders might be added to the stakeholders list to address this criterion.

An important issue here is that the commissioner needs to have a concrete plan. This is needed to get funding from the province or other subsidy providers.

Possible funding can be acquired by, for example; 1) STINAF which aims at the development/enhancement of recreation, 2) ‘Wurkje foar Fryslân’ which aims at innovative projects or, 3) ‘Waddenfonds’ with is a fund created by the gas extraction underneath the Wadden Sea. This fund is assessable via the province. All these funds however fund development projects which are ready to be implemented. There is no available subsidies for research projects. The European Union has also a stack of gold for rural projects. The implementation on how to use these funds is still being discussed and this money might become available for recreation and tourism activities in rural areas by 2014 (Pers. comm. G. van Oene 2013). The section above stresses the importance of a planological researched development plan which can be used for subsidies appliance. This can also be developed into a bid book. This bid book can contain multiple projects/ ideas to which enthusiastic entrepreneurs can develop their own business in (Pers. comm. G. van Oene 2013).

4.2 Future stage The project has multiple partners involved in the project which gives the project body. In the future other partners have to be found to lift the project from the development stage to a sustainable long- term tourism attraction providing the area with an entrance to from the north to the Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild and a broader entrance to the terp area from “Duinkerken – Esbjerg”. The following stakeholders have to be considered to make this project lift-off. This group of stakeholder can be categorized as “clients”. These clients have to use the products the area provides.

Tourists, (Re-) immigrants and Agricultural entrepreneurs The definition of a tourist in this report is a person who is travelling outside his usual environment for leisure and recreational purposes. An immigrant is defined as any person from outside the thirteen villages settling in one of the thirteen villages that are described in the Introduction. This can be due renting or buying a house and intent to remain in the village for at least 2 years. A re-immigrant is defined as a person who lived in one of the thirteen villages, emigrated outside the region for at least 2 years and re-immigrates within one of the thirteen villages and intends to remain in the village for at least 2 years. Agricultural entrepreneurs are all persons engaging agricultural businesses and related activities in the Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild region.

Tourism, immigrants, re-immigrants can support the viability of an area. As more people tend to move to the cities, social services decrease in abundance and in quality. The region of which Dantumadiel is part of, has the prognosis of showing a reasonable stable population between 2012- 2025, with -2,5% decrease to a +2,5 increase of population (figure 14)(CBS 2013).

To stimulate this reasonable stable situation or to develop growth in the region new clients to the area have to be attracted. To attract new clients to the area in the form of tourists or immigrants the area has to contain certain values which are unique compared to other areas.

Attracting clients Figure 14 - Population trends (CBS, 2013) To attract clients to the area it is necessary to map their gains (wishes), pains (problems) and opportunities (possibilities). Developing a product which does not meet the gains, pains, and opportunities of future clients is likely to be less successful than one that does meet these criteria.

Attracting tourists to the ‘Wetterterp’ requires spotting an opportunity (more recreational possibilities in the area), creating a product (the actual terp and museum) and thereby pulling the clients to the area. The first step in this process is recognizing the opportunity that can be exploited, which in this case was done by the Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild commission. The following step then is to develop a product that fits to the opportunity (Ardichvili et al. 2003). A successful business (‘Wetterterp’ in this case) is thus preceded by a successful development after the initial noting of a possibility for improvement. This development is influenced by 1) the entrepreneurial alertness of the developing party (Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild); 2) the prior knowledge/ expertise of the developing party; 3) the social network of the developing party; 4) the optimism, self-efficacy and creativity of the members within the developing party; and 5) the type of the opportunity (Ardichvili et al. 2003).

In the ‘Wetterterp’ project all these five key factors are present or partly present. The commission has the entrepreneurial insight that: the construction of the ‘Centrale As’ provides new opportunity; the Bûtenfjild are lacks an entrance from the North; and at the same time the whole terp area from Duinkerken to Esbjerg lacks a central location to access the area. The commission also recognized that the Eeltjemeer area has the least bureaucratic challenges and provides the basic forms of a ‘Wetterterp’. The entrepreneurial insight of the commission is than powered with their prior knowledge on the area and personal expertise. These prior activities and expertise led to the development of the social network of the commission. This provides the commission with an even broader insight on the issues at hand and adds to the quality of the project. The social network has knowledge on communication and connecting stakeholders, funding, research and construction. The spirit of the commission creates a positive, optimistic and inspiring view on the project, it puts effort in developing the project within their limited resources by hiring students to conduct research on the feasibility of the project, and the commission offers creativity with the ‘Dorpenvisie’ and the ‘Wetterterp’ documents. The optimism of the commission creates a buzz within the network and simulates the enthusiasm for outside parties. The type of opportunity is one of large investment (>€200.000). Before the development of the actual ‘Wetterterp’ it is essential to assess the desirability of the ‘Wetterterp’.

Figure 15– Marketing model

It is unclear for us in how far this desirability is assessed and how the type of the opportunity can be described.

The way in which the ‘Wetterterp’ project has approached the development of a possible terp is assessed with a marketing model (Figure 15). This assessment to the marketing model supports the description of which type of opportunity the ‘Wetterterp’ is. A product can be developed in multiple ways. It can be developed by the traditional physical process sequence or by the value creation and delivery sequence. The two differ from the starting point. The first starts with a product which is pushed in the market while the second starts with a market which is pulled to the product. In the current situation the commission takes the first approach, putting a multidisciplinary feasibility study before market study. Leaving the project without a desirability in which the type of opportunity can be assessed.

Figure 16 - Value, Creation Capability (Getzels, 1962)

Using the stage matrix from Getzels, 1962 (figure 16) which uses two terms; value sought and value creation capability for opportunity development, the type of opportunity is assessed. Value sought comes from an “imprecisely-defined market need, or from un- /under-employed resources or capabilities” (Kirzner 1997). It arises out of the perspective from feature clients. Value creation capability opportunities are developed out of underutilized or underemployed resources. Value creation is also created out of technological knowledge or other types of pre-acquired knowledge or abilities. The ‘Wetterterp’ project has both elements. The idea has arisen out of pre-acquired knowledge and it fills an under-employed resource in the Bûtenfjild area. Although it is undefined how this creation of extra value for the area serves clients which are still unidentified. This places the current state of the ‘Wetterterp’ project into the 1st section of Getzels matrix, labels as a “Dream”.

The 2nd step in Getzels matrix is “Problem solving” or identify the imprecisely-defined market needs or identify precisely the un- /under-employed resources or capabilities of the Eeltjemeer area.

As mentioned earlier the commission has recognized an gap in tourism facilitation regarding to the: 1) terp area Duinkerken – Esbjerg; 2) North side of the Bûtenfjild area; 3) lack of attractiveness of the Eeltjemeer area; and 4) changes for educational, cultural and recreational development connecting Eeltjemeer to the region.

Following this opportunity recognition the imprecisely-defined market needs need to be identified precisely. The argument here is that when developing a costly product it is wise to know if there are actually going to be clients who purchase the product. In the case of using community funds (subsidies) for the realization of a project, the developer needs to justify his actions. Also, if the funding would be a loan from a bank, this bank would need a detailed business plan before investing.

Value Proposition Canvas One of the possible tools to identify the market need is the use of the Value Proposition Canvas (VPC) (Appendix VI) (BMG 2013a). The VPC assess the gains, pains and opportunities (Customer jobs) of the future clients. An example for (re-) immigrants from other regions of the Netherlands can be (see table 13).

Table 13 – Gains, Pains, and Opportunities for Immigrants (source: PREP Course).

Gains Pains Opportunity Freedom Disconnection with city live Develop green hobbies Spacious environment Might require sacrifices in Outdoor activities living comfort Larger living space Different language Back to your roots Broad community Less social services Water sport opportunities Lower living cost Resistance to out siders World improvers can feel compared to the from local inhabitants more at ease ‘Randstad’ High social control Status might decrease Create new input in the area The speed of life takes a Work opportunities. New opportunities for a slower pace. business

It can create insight to which criteria the ‘Wetterterp’ project has to comply. By assessing all future clients by the value proposition canvas new insights can be developed. These insights can broaden the developers view and prevents the project to develop activities and facilities the market does not need.

Business plan After assessing the market needs the VPC can be implemented in the Business Model Canvas (Appendix VI) (BMG 2013b). The two segments of the VPC represent the areas of Value proposition and Customer segment. When these are identified the process of developing the business plan further is by assessing all the other segments of the Business Model Canvas. The Business Model Canvas (BMC) can be developed in any time frame between five minutes and a day. The BMC provides a quick overview on the idea/ dream and identifies the segments which are under explored and which need extra research. It can save time, financial- and social resources to make the project process more effective. In this business plan the commission can write more on which stakeholders to integrate in what phase of the project. To get the project started in the first place, the Municipality and Fryslân Province are of major importance.

4.3 Conclusion and Recommendations We conclude that the partners connected to the project have the expertise for developing a plan for the ‘Wetterterp,’ Before further work is put into building plans for the terp, energy should be put into market research. Is a ‘Wetterterp’ the best idea for a tourist attraction/ impulse for the region? What are the alternatives of a ‘Wetterterp’? Example: A historical farm owned by a farmer with an exit strategy might be able to serve as a museum/ information centre/ create awareness. What needs are present the Bûtenfjild-/ Terp area? Pushing this product into the market might not result in the results envisioned. Therefore assessing the market, followed by pulling this market to the region can aid in the support for justifying the development of a ‘Wetterterp’.

1. Assess the market needs of the Bûtenfjild area. Does the market need a ‘Wetterterp’? What activities does the market attend? 2. Define the market, than develop the “Dream” into a “Problem solving” project which addresses the market needs and the un-/ under employed resources in the Eeltjemeer area. 3. Use the business model canvas or any other business model to assess the feasibility based on the market needs. 4. If the project proves to have a feasible market, develop a (multidisciplinary) feasibility study on the technical aspects, “Technical Transfer”.

5. As a final step develop a business plan. In this business plan the commission can write more on which stakeholders to integrate in what phase of the project. To get the project started in the first place, the municipality and Province of Fryslân are of major importance.

SWOT-analysis and integration In order to determine the strong and weak points of this multidisciplinary feasibility study, a SWOT analysis was conducted. For further clarification on the SWOT analysis method, see Appendix VII.

Table 14 provides the most important strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the implementation of the ‘Wetterterp’. The different aspects are each given a separate colour in order to provide a structure in the SWOT analysis. Red represents the tourism aspect, grey represents the construction aspect and green represents the environmental aspect.

In order to provide a feasible and clear strategy plan, only the most applicable and important points of attention were integrated in the strategy plan.

Table 14 - SWOT analysis

Strengths Weaknesses

 Cultural heritage tourism  Aimed at a specific type of tourists  Area is close by other main tourist sites/attraction.  Location close to Hegebeintum  Water areas are ranking 1st place in tourism motives  Seasonality is a large issue in tourism activity

 Overall good water quality  Endangered animal species present  Not part of Natura 2000, EMS or other nature area  Close-by meadow bird field (Tusken Lytsen)  No endangered flora present  Archaeological expectation value level 2  Large-scale structures (characteristic of ‘clay area’)  Darkness is a quality of Bûtenfjild

 Soil of the receiving bottom is not polluted  Receiving soil not suitable for the support large edifices  Receiving bottom quality does not need to be tested  Environmental landscape is much valued  Construction material is available  Dredge quality remains unknown  Methods for peat stabilization are cheap  Core qualities of environment do not add to the ideas

Opportunities Threats

 Economic boost through cultural heritage tourism.  ‘’Build it and they will come approach’’  Reach a broader group of tourists by linking tourism  Not profitable due to narrow aim of tourists potentials.  Lack of authenticity  Provide a touristic attraction for tourist that can be  Hegebeintum might provide competition. visited through-out the year.  Increased tourism might harm water quality  Extensive water recreation  Disturbance of endangered species  Extension of water around terp  Possible delay/extra costs due to archaeological values  Freedom from nature legislation regarding nature areas  Light pollution  Potential argumentation on match “clay terp” and Bûtenfjild  Dredge might not meet emission values.  Construction material might not be enough  Save money by using dredge from Eeltjemeer V.O.F.  Soil might not be treatable to support the edifice  Use topsoil for the integration in the landscape  Edifice will act as an alien landmark.  Relative cheap soil treatment opportunities  Improve attractiveness for tourists

Referring to the tourism part of this report, it is recommended to aim the development of the ’Wetterterp’ focusing on cultural heritage tourism, but also provide activities for other target groups. It is known that cultural heritage tourism attracts high spending visitors, but focusing only on this group of tourists might not profitable. Especially when taking into consideration the presence of the terp ‘Hegebeintum’ close to the construction area, providing information on culture and history in an authentic way. 76

Moreover the construction of the ‘Wetterterp’ might not be recognized as cultural heritage due to flaws in the historical design (clay on peat). Constructing mainly for the purpose of culture heritage tourism without any information about recreational wishes by different tourists may lead to the ‘’build it and they will come approach’’. Cultural heritage tourism is often poorly understood and it is important to integrate touristic demands in the design of the constructions. By providing a variety of touristic activities, year round visits by tourists can also be realized. With main touristic sites and attractions close by, considering water recreation as the number one demand of tourism motivations, providing recreational opportunities for domestic tourists could be seen as a major contribution to make optimum use of the possibilities of Eeltjemeer, especially when considering that the overall water quality proves to be acceptable. However, it needs to be taken into consideration that the core qualities of the area and the development ideas of the municipalities do not allow the development of extensive recreation in the area. Development of extensive recreation would also lead to increased pressure on endangered species that proved to be present in Eeltjemeer, as well as on the present meadow bird field. Although Eeltjemeer is no Natura 2000 area, legislation regarding endangered species need to be taken into consideration. Alternatives for lost nature values need to be considered in order to provide the contractor approval for the construction activities in the area. The area is also marked as an expected archaeology value 2 area, possibly impeding construction activities due to the archaeological value of the area. Since the quality of the soil, which is expected to be unsuitable for the support of a large edifice, needs to be tested on carrying capacity anyway in order to determine the possibilities for soil improvement, it is recommended to study the underground for archaeological findings in order to solve any uncertainties regarding the archaeological value of the construction site. In order to realize the construction and the demands of the destination plan, the construction of the terp needs to take into account the value of darkness in the area. The area is known for its darkness which is much valued by local people. When constructing the terp, it needs to be taken into account that light pollution does not affect the tranquillity of the area by interfering with the valued dark characteristics of the area. It also needs to be taken into account that the construction can become an alien landmark in the area. The construction location is positioned in a clay area, which has large scale structures as a typical characteristic. When constructing the terp, attractiveness for tourists, as well as for the locals needs to be taken into consideration. The edifice need to fit in the landscape, since the landscape is much valued. The usage of topsoil to cover the outside of the edifice might provide an option to integrate the terp in the landscape. Also, limiting the height of the terp is recommended since original terps build on peat did not reach great heights. By building partly underground, the height of the terp can be limited without losing its potential. In order to save money, it is recommended to use dredged material from Eeltjemeer V.O.F. However, it needs to be taken into account that the quality of this dredge remains unknown. Since the quality of the dredge is not allowed to be of lesser quality then the receiving soil, which is not polluted, it needs to be tested in order to make sure that it does not exceed the allowed emission values. Also, the available amount of dredge need to determined. It is recommended to make sure that enough dredged material is available in order to realize the construction on one civil engineering step. It is therefore recommended to make clear agreements with the supplier of the dredge.

Conclusion

Regarding the recommendations explained earlier, it is concluded that the realization of the ‘Wetterterp’ might be feasible. However, it needs to be mentioned that some findings really need to be considered before implementing any constructional activities. The idea of the ‘Wetterterp’, as well as the chosen location, proved to have some positive aspects, as well as some negative aspects. It is important for the commissioner of this project to take these aspects into consideration before deciding on the final executive planning of their ideas. Although this multidisciplinary feasibility study demonstrated the strong and the weak points of the idea approached from different kinds of expertise, it needs to be mentioned that the results on the feasibility of the ‘Wetterterp’ remain far from complete. Since the expertise within this study as well as time were limited, it is advised that extensive studies on the economic constraints, as well as an extensive study on the demands of tourists are conducted.

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Appendices

Appendix I - Project description and outline ID1 1,164 Title-case New ideas for the project 'Wetterterp' to improve tourism in Northeast Fryslân Commissioner- Commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild – supported by Knowledge Atelier Noordoost brief Fryslân Description of the What are the possibilities of creating a terp (artificial dwelling hill) in the area of assignment Eeltjemeer (Northeast Fryslân)? What kind of opportunities does this have for the region? Feasibility How can the area be designed: with one of more terpen/hills? Keep the cultural history and the existing water in the area in mind. If possible visualise the design. Is there a relationship between the terpen/hills and the agricultural development of the area (drainage and salinity of the soil)? What are the obstacles in the field of planning, when developing one or more terpen/hills? What kind of solutions can you come up with? Desirability How can a terp/hills contribute to promotion of the area Northeast Fryslân? Investigate what kind of facilities (daily recreation, residential recreation, entertainment) are needed to welcome visitors in the area during the whole year and with all types of weather conditions. Background From the interests of thirteen villages the commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild is developing a vision for the Bûtenfjild area. The aim of this vision is to recognizably unite the thirteen villages. The area offers possibilities for developing tourism and recreation, agriculture and services. The characteristic features and strong landmarks of the area can be better used. One of these strong features are terpen (artificial dwelling hills): they are characteristic for the Wadden sea coast and an icon of reclamation and first habitation in the area. However, most of these terpen are not in the original state anymore. The commission Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild developed the idea of creating several new terpen in the area of Eeltjemeer. The aim of this project is to: Give the terpen-area (Duinkerken-Esbjerg) an entrance; Make the area more attractive (impulse for residential recreation); Provide an educational, cultural and recreational services. Literature Information about ‘Bûtenfjild’: http://www.itfryskegea.nl/Natuurgebied/Butenfjild/ (in Dutch) Visie Commissie Wetterwâlden Bûtenfjild (in Dutch)

Confidential No Interesting for Water, water management (MIL, maybe MAM/MEE) Tourism and recreation (MLE) Environmental planning, relationship city-countryside (MUE) Ecology (MFN or MBI) At least two Dutch speaking students are required. Commissioner- First contact with Kenniswerkplaats/'Knowledge Atelier' Noordoost Fryslân, Rianne Vos, extended phone: +316 31679138, [email protected] case-recruiter [email protected] expert Karin Peters, Cultural Geography, [email protected] Period-available 13/14-p1

Appendix II - Expert List

Tourism:

 Beleef Fryslân, Tourism Website for Fryslân

Environment:

 J. Tonckens, Tonckens ecology  E. Wymenga, Altema en Wymenga

Construction:

 S. O’Hagan and M. Van Der Meer, Fugro b.v.  G. de Langen, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen

Stakeholders:

 G. Van Oene, Plattelânsprojekten and the Province of Fryslân

Appendix III – Tourism

Preliminary tourism questionnaire

Cultural tourism in the Netherlands In Dutch tradition, culture was foremost regarded as a means to improve the livelihood of people rather than promoting and marketing it as a commodity. This view changed dramatically as national, regional and local governments discovered the potential of culture and cultural tourism in specific to increase economic development (Richards 2005). Nowadays, cultural tourism in the Netherlands is seen as a potential solution to a great variety of problems such as the funding of cultural institutions including the preservation of cultural heritage, spreading tourism seasonally and regionally as well as spreading cultural consumption geographically and socially and furthermore facilitating national and regional identities (Richards 2005).

Cultural tourists are seen as an attractive target group as they are well educated, they have a higher income and they are willing to go to more remote, rural areas aside the main stream places (Richards 2012). Besides the obvious positive aspects of the desirable cultural tourists, there are potential negative consequences to this target group and especially their needs are often ignored. According to Richards (2012), there is evidence that local destinations often use a ‘build it and they will come approach’ for cultural tourism development without addressing a specific market (Richards 2012).

The visitor profile within the cultural tourism market can be identified as followed:

Table 15 - Importance of cultural tourism in the decision to visit destination (Richards 2011)

Broadly the segmentation can be explained in terms of tourists who have either a general interest in culture and who see culture as only one aspect of traveling to a destination or those tourists who have a specific interest in culture and which is the main reason to travel to a destination.

Following categories where identified by McKercher and Du Cros (in Richards 2011):

 The purposful cultural tourist whose main motive is to experience culture and to visit cultural attractions in one destination which results in a deep experience.  The sighseeing tourist is as well as the purposful cultural tourist deeply interested in cultural aspects while visiting a destination, however the tourist’s experience remains shallow.  The serendipitous cultural tourist is not driven by cultural motives, but having a deep cultural experience after engaging in cultural tourism.

 The casual tourist offers a superficial interest in cultural attractions while visiting a destination, thus having a shallow experience.  The incidental cultural tourist does not have the purpose at all to visit cultural attractions, but when unintentionally engaging in some sort of cultural activity it will be a shallow experience.

First of all, cultural tourism is conceptually defined as “the movement of persons to cultural attractions away from their normal place of residence, with the intention to gather new information and experiences to satisfy their cultural needs” (Richards 1996 in Ivanovic). This definition gives us insight in the main motives of cultural tourists; namely education and novelty (authenticity and uniqueness) (Ivanovic 2008). Furthermore, “the Netherlands Institute for Heritage defines heritage as the tangible (objects) and intangible (stories) expressions of a society's culture that has been handed down from generation to generation” (The Netherlands Institute for Heritage 2013). Tangible heritage objects can be described as monuments, historical/architectual relics artefacts and museums. In addition to the material form, heritage is supplemented by the immaterial, like philosophy, stories of people and society, their traditions and art, happenings and events as well as characteristics of their way of living (Isaac 2008). Based on the given definitions, we can place heritage wihtin cultural tourism.

Cultural Tourism Policies in the Netherlands Cultural tourism development is used for different reasons on different levels. Whereas, from a local point of view, cultural tourism is foremost seen as a mean to attract high spending visitors to stimulate economic growth in the area. On a European level, cultural tourism can be seen as adding to the idea of Europe by visiting and understanding the diversity of European cultures (Richards 2012).

Culture is an important resource and of high priority to many countries and their national tourism policies. As seen in the Netherlands, cultural tourism was used to bring ministries together, working on culture and tourism and to develop joint programmes. “Culture provides the product for tourism, and tourism provides the funding to support culture” (Richards 2012). Three of the four major tourism policy priorities of the Dutch government are somewhat related to culture (historic cities, maritime heritage and Netherlands-Waterland).

Dutch cultural tourism policy was first integrated in the national tourism plan “Enterprises in tourism” in 1990. As the title states, the plan were mainly motivated by increasing the economic potential of tourism which included cultural-historic heritage as one of the four identified themes. Subsequently, the main themes were applied in the promotion strategy of the Netherlands Tourism Board. This policy was further developed through the action plan “Sea of Culture” in 1997 in which culture was again identified as one of the main product-market combinations together with coast and cities (Richards 1996).

Through the identification of cultural heritage as a main pillar in national tourism policy, cultural tourism development and promotion boosted on all levels. By adopting a cultural tourism strategy, the province of Fryslân wanted to attract more visitors to the region. “The Province hoped to capitalize on "the general trend towards growing interest in culture" through the integrated development and marketing of Fryslân his rich, but previously uncoordinated heritage” (Joustra 1994 in Richards). Based on the existing cultural tourism activities and the new developments, the

95 province of Fryslân launched a regional development and action plan in 1992. Newly implemented elements were the composition of cultural tourism holiday packages and the publication of a magazine illustrating cultural tourism products available in Fryslân (Richards 1996).

Visitor profile: Consumer study on tourism in Fryslân The data and numbers used in this section are taken from the “Consumentenonderzoek Toerisme 2009” by the Stenden Instituut Service Management. We will focus on day trip tourists and overnight tourists coming to Fryslân which produced a sample size of 1236 tourist opinions. In this section we will generally give an overview on characteristics, motives and activities. Day trip tourists are defined as tourists who travel for recreational and leisure purposes without staying overnight in a certain region. Overnight tourists are defined as tourists who travel for recreational and leisure purposes including overnight stay in a certain region.

Origin of tourists Day trip tourists Characteristic for Fryslân is that most of the day trip tourists originate from the province, which is 45% of the day trip tourists. This can be related to the short travel time. Moreover, there are about 16% of tourists coming from Groningen and about 14% coming from Drenthe. A further minor source of origin is coming from Germany and other countries. Moreover, it can be noticed that around 73% of the day tourists are repeating visitors. Overnight tourists The majority of the overnight respondents (25%) in Fryslân are also from within Fryslân. An equal amount of respondents with each around 12% is coming from Groningen and Drenthe, a lesser amount compared to the day trip tourists is originating from Germany and Belgium. 61% of the overnight tourists are repeating visitors.

Composition of group and age Day trip tourists Day trip tourists in Fryslân are mostly traveling with a partner (32%) or together with friends (24%). To a lesser degree day trip tourists are in company of children (19%). The main age groups of day tourists coming to Fryslân are more or less equally distributed between the 19 to 30 years old and the 31 to 50 years old with 22% and 23%. Overnight tourists The composition of overnight tourists remain mainly the same as for day trip tourists, but the numbers are more clear: 49% of the overnight tourists are traveling with a partner and 24% are coming with children. Most of the overnight tourists are placed within the age groups 31 to 50 (24%) and 51 to 64 (28%).

Further types of overnight tourists can be distinguished in Fryslân. The majority comes for relaxation reasons (46%). Other types of holidays are adressing nature, sportive activities and visiting friends and familiy (18%, 15%, 15% respectively). Only 2 % of the overnight tourists gave culture as a primary reason to visit Fryslân. There is no clear distinction of age related to cultural vacations in the area.

Motives Day trip tourists In table 16 the top ten motives of day trip tourists coming to Fryslân in 2009 are shown. As it is obvious, the water aspect, inlcuding lakes and canals, is ranking on first place (8%), closely followed by relaxation motives like tranquility and simplicity (7%). About 2% of the day trip tourists gave visiting historical cities / places and monuments as a motive and 3% said that they are coming to visite museums, theaters and exhibitions. The remaining 1% gave tradition, language and authenticity as a motive. These motives can be places within cultural tourism and together with visiting water areas can be applied to project ‘Wetterterp’ (Table 5).

Table 16 - Visitor motives for day trip tourists to Fryslân (2009) (Stenden 2009)

Overnight Tourists The main motives for overnight tourists are more or less the same but they are ranking differently compared to day trip tourists. With 11%, relaxation is on first place, followed by biking with 9% and water recreation with 8%. Again, motives related to cultural and historical activities are not in focus. Visiting historical cities / places and monuments accounts for 2%. The same as for the day tourists, visiting museums, theaters and exhibitions as well as tradition, language and authenticity only accounts for each 1% of the motives (Table 17).

Table 17 - Visitor motives for overnight tourists to Fryslân (2009)(Stenden 2009)

Activities Day trip tourists The main tourism activities undertaken by day trip tourists in Fryslân are biking (16%), shopping (11%) and on third place: sun and swimming, going out (incl. eating out) and city and village tours (8%). Sightseeing accounts for 6% and visiting a museum for 4%, see table 18.

Table 18 - Top 10 activities by day trip tourists in Fryslân (2000-2009)(Stenden 2009)

Overnight Tourists Again the main activities for the overnight tourists remain more or less the same but in another order. Biking still ranks in first place with 18%. Whereas hiking is with 13% in second place. Sun and swimming accounts for 11%. Activities related to project ‘Wetterterp’, like sightseeing, is on sixth place with 6%. Visiting a museum is not at all listed in the top ten activities (accounts for 3%)(Table 19).

Table 19 - Top 10 activities by overnight tourists in Fryslân (2000-2009) (Stenden 2009)

Expenditure Day trip tourists On average, day tourists in Fryslân were spending 39€ in the region in 2009 per person. The expenditure is composed of eating and drinking (34%), entrance fees (17%), shopping (13%), souvenirs (10%) and snacks (27%). Tourism in Fryslân was able to generate an income of 485.000.000 € from day tourists in 2012 (ETFI 2012). Overnight Tourists The average amount spend by overnight tourists was slightly higher with 44€ per person in 2009. As tourists have to stay in an accommodation, this part already accounts for 53% of the expenditure. Eating and drinking accounts for 21%, shopping for 13%, transportation for 7%, snacks for 3% and souvenirs and entrance fees for 2%. Tourism in Fryslân was able to generate an income of 544.000.000 € from overnight tourists in 2012 (ETFI 2012).

Operating distance of day trip and overnight tourists in Fryslân in 2009 Day trip tourists in Fryslân are willing to travel an average of 62km in order to reach their destination whereas overnight tourists operate within 42km from their accommodation within the tourist destination.

Improvement points for tourism in Fryslân Day trip tourists The tourism offer of a destination is not always met by the tourist’s needs and expecations. Therefore, the table underneath shows the ten main improvement points from the day tourism perspective to provide the tourists with a better general tourism experience in Fryslân. The majority (40%) of the day trip tourists critizice overal tourism facilties, activities and attractions in Fryslân. Minor points are shopping opportunities and tourism infrastructure; meaning constructions and maintenance of infrustructure (8%, 7%). 12% indicates that a lot of day trip tourists in Fryslân are satisfied with their visit and don’t see any needs for improvement points at all, see table 20.

Table 20 - Top 10 improvement points by day trip tourists in Fryslân, 2009 (Stenden 2009)

Overnight Tourists The same result for the day trip tourists also accounts for the overnight tourists (49%), who indicated that the overal tourism facilties, activities and attractions need to be improved. Minor points which they feel that need to be improved are signs, information boards and destination and activities advertisement for the tourists (Table 21)

Table 21 - Top 10 improvement points by overnight tourists in Fryslân in 2009 (Stenden 2009)

Background information on Schokland Schokland is a former island in the vicinity of Urk and Emmeloord. Since the year 650 the people on the island lived on terps, since the rest of the island was too low and soggy. Schokland decreased in size rapidly, due to flooding and severe storms. In 1859 all inhabitants were evacuated, since Schokland became too dangerous to live on according to the Dutch government. Nowadays it is an ‘island on land,’ since the creation of the Noordoostpolder (1941) and the Afsluitdijk (1932). In 1995 Schokland was the first Dutch landmark to receive UNESCO world heritage status. It is now being preserved for the future to let visitors experience the cultural history and nature of the area (figure 17). Farmers are a big part of this process, since they are running their businesses on a world heritage area.

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Figure 17 – Impression of Schokland today (Schoklandinfo 2013).

Management The Schokland area is managed by three different organizations that all have a specific expertise;

 The Flevo-landschap (nature organization managing the terrain)  The municipality of Noordoostpolder (Owner of the museum and two other buildings)  Schoklandsboerengoed (Association of farmers, with a company in the UNESCO world heritage area)

In addition, there are a lot of stakeholders involved in creating awareness and promoting the area. The management organizations recognized the importance of collaborating with different people and organizations with different expertise in the vicinity. These stakeholders include IVN Flevoland, Schokkervereniging, NatuurlijkSchokland and archaeological taskforce and the Dutch platform of world heritage areas, Province of Flevoland, Water board Zuiderzeeland, Rijksdienst cultural heritage, LTO Noord, Domein Directie IJsselmeerpolders and the Ministry of Education and Science (Schokland 2013).

Current tourism related facilities on Schokland, There are many tourism related facilities in the Schokland area; first of all there is a museum with a small museum shop. This museum receives over 50.000 visitors yearly. The in- and outside exhibitions give tourists an impression of geology, archaeology and living on the (former) island. The management organizations arrange special lectures and concerts several times a year and it is also possible to get married in the historic church that is still situated in Schokland (Rijksmonument). There is a visitor center, with a special route passing large glacial boulders and the possibility to buy drinks. It is also possible to dine and have a drink in the Schokland museum restaurant. A lot of sleeping accommodations are present in the area (Emmeloord e.g.), but not in Schokland itself. Tourists also have the possibility to book excursions and there are several walking- and hiking routes available as well as so called ‘luisterroute.’ This luisterroute lets visitors hear stories based on environmental history via MP3 players (Schokland 2013).

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Tourism questionnaire

1. Socio-economic characteristics (n=103) The division by sex is 47,6% men and 52,4% women. The majority of the respondents (68,0%) is aged between 21 and 30 years and lives alone (65,0%). The origin of the respondents is mostly based in Gelderland (44,7%), Zeeland (15,5%) and Fryslân (12,6%). The overall majority comes from an academic background with 57,3% from WO and 29,1% from an HBO level. The average income of the respondents is lower than 10.000€ per year.

2. Travel behavior of domestic tourists (n=100) From 100 responses 33% state that they are going at least one time during the year on holidays within the Netherlands, and 30% say that they go more than one time. Concerning day trips, 42% are traveling less than five times during the year for leisure and recreation purpose and 40% travel between five and ten times for this purpose within their own country. For 48% of the respondents, Fryslân appeals as a tourist destination for the following reasons: because of landscape and nature (19%), because of relatives living in Fryslân (16%) and because of the respondent living in Fryslân (13%). On the opposite side, 52% replied that they are not going to Fryslân for holidays or day trips because of the distance (31%), because of lack of attractiveness of the region (10%), because of lack of activities (4%) and because of other reasons (7%). At least 33 respondents said that they would like to come back to Fryslân for holidays or day trips.

3. Image of Fryslân (n=96) Concerning the image that domestic tourists have of Fryslân, typically Friesian sport activities like Fierljeppen, Kaatsen and Skûtsjesilen rank on first place with 79,1%. Schaatsen (Elfstedentocht) with 69,8% and Wadden islands with 40,6% rank in second and third place. Other typical associations which occur amongst the domestic tourists are: Friesian horses (34,4%), Beerenburg (31,3%), water sports (30,2%), terps (22,9%) and folk dances (3,1%). Under other comments, 7 respondents associated Friesian language as typical for the region.

4. Activities (n=95) The main activities respondents would like to do when on holidays or day trips in the Netherlands is with 52,6% going to restaurants and cafés, followed by visiting nature with 41,1% and then in a bigger gap beach visit (26,3%) and cultural sightseeing (25,3%). Further activities which we asked for is visiting theme parks, hiking, shopping (each 20%), visiting museums (17,9%), biking (14,7%), sailing, water sports and visiting theater/cinema (each 13,7%), fishing, survival training and other sports (each 3,2%).

5. Terps in Fryslân (n=95) 87,1% of the respondents (n=93) stated that they knew about the existence of terps and their importance in the struggle against the water in former times. Only 23,2% of the respondents are interested in visiting a touristic terp, whereas 44,3% say that they are uninterested or very uninterested in visiting a terp. 31,6% of the people indicate that they are neutral against the idea of visiting a terp. Nonetheless, 51,6% of 95 respondents are interested to very interested in visiting Fryslân, 66,3% are interested to very interested in doing cultural related trips and 57,9% are interested to very interested in the cultural history of the Netherlands and the fight against water.

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6. Infrastructure and transportation (n=95) In order to make a visit to a terp more attractive, we asked for additional facilities which can be integrated in a visit. 51,6% would like to have a restaurant close to the terp, 36,8% like to have marked biking and hiking routes, 31,6% like to visit a museum, 29,5% would like to see old Friesian crafts, 24,2% like to rent boots or canoes and to have guided tours around the area, 21,1% like to go to the beach, 17,9% like to have a look-out point, 16,8% like to go swimming while visiting the area, 15,8% like to rent a bike, 14,7% want to visit a marina, 11,6% like to have a visitor information center, 5,3% like to have a children’s playground and 4,2% like to have a possibility to buy souvenirs and to go by horse and carriage.

Concerning the exploration of the terp and the area around, the majority (56,4%) likes to do so by bike followed walking 38,3% and (fluister)boot with 24,5%. Other means of transportation include the own car (22,3%), canoe (13,8%), horse or horse carriage (11,7%) as well as segway or electrical car/ golf cart (each 4,3%).

7. Comments of respondents “Accessibility seems important. As you made it visible, the history of ‘Schokland’ seems very suitable for a terp” “I am interested in Dutch cultural history. However, I find a newly built terp not covered. An original terp is a lot more interesting and less commercial. “ “Nice that terps are getting finally accessible to the public. Few people have knowledge on it. Would a partnership with Groningen and Noord-Holland concerning terps not be a valuable addition for example, when it comes to setting up a museum? “ “A fake terp, I feel a bit sorry. Rather promote one that is already there.” “I doubt whether the costs outweigh the revenue. In addition, I expect that there are many opportunities to promote the region for tourism without a new terp. An older terp might have appeal, but I think this attraction is lost for many people if it is a terp made in the year 2013. “ “For me, concerning a touristic terp, the authentic character is in danger.”

Interpretation of data From the above given survey data and the literature study on domestic tourism and tourism in Fryslân we can draw some conclusions concerning the idea of project ‘Wetterterp’.

To support Fryslân being a favorite domestic tourism destination (see section on domestic tourism), we can see from the collected data that for 48% of the respondents Fryslân appeals to be a desirable tourism destination for various reasons. The 52% who voted against Fryslân as a tourism destination can be linked to the origin of the respondents. Since the majority lives currently in Gelderland they have to travel a long distance in order to spend their holidays and to undertake day trip activities in Fryslân. Especially, when it comes to day trips, we can assume that people from Gelderland are probably not willing to travel for hours to spend a day in Fryslân (31%).

Concerning the incorporation of terps as being a typical Friesian element in the image of tourists is not yet fully given. Although 87,1% of the 93 respondents state that they knew about the existence of terps, only 22,9% (from 96 responses) claim them to be an element of Friesian landscape. The image people have predominantly about Fryslân is based on the unique Friesian sport activities like Fierljeppen, Kaatsen and Skûtsjesilen and the famous Elfstedentocht which takes place during winter when the canals are frozen and people ice skate through 11 different villages in Fryslân. So as a 103 conclusion we can state that terps don’t play a major role in the image of Fryslân so far which can be changed by promoting terps more within cultural tourism. Moreover, tourists in Fryslân have a major interest in water, lakes and canals (NBTC 2012) which can be seen as a benefit for the project as it can be more strongly connected to water recreation and the lake itself to attract high visitor numbers.

Interpreting the main activities which domestic tourists want to do, we can say, that by defining a terp as a cultural attraction, this is preferred by 23% of the respondents. Thus, we can conclude that there is a market for cultural tourism which supports the previous outcomes of the literature study on tourism in Fryslân. Visiting a museum is less appreciated by the respondents. Overall, cultural sights and museums don’t function as main points of interest, they lack attractiveness. Following, we can state that other elements have to be included in the project ‘Wetterterp’ to attract more visitors, such as e.g. a restaurant and accessible and developed hiking and biking routes to explore surrounding nature for tourists close to Eeltjemeer as these are main activities undertaken by domestic tourists (NBTC 2012). This direction can be further elaborated using the results of important facilities tourists want to have around when on vacation or doing day trips. Again, a restaurant and possibilities to visit surrounding nature rank on the first places. Furthermore, other natural potential and resources of the area of Eeltjemeer can be integrated and developed in order to attract more tourists such as e.g. building a look-out point, expanding and developing the beach area at Eeltjemeer or establishing a sort of marina for boot and canoe rent. As many people ask for nature related activities (e.g. visiting nature and beach, sailing, biking, hiking, swimming etc.) it is directly related to the desired means of transportation around the terp and Eeltjemeer which is bikes and walking.

What does authenticity means in terms of cultural tourism? Authenticity is only relevant in certain forms of tourism like ethnic, history or cultural tourism as they include the representation of the past (Wang 1999). In terms of authenticity, it is mainly its museum-link usage which is applied in tourism. In this context, art, handcrafts, housing, tradition and rituals and much more products of tourism are described as authentic or inauthentic depending on the criterion whether or not “they are made or enacted by local people according to their custom and tradition” (Wang 1999). “[And in this sense], authenticity connotes traditional culture and origin, a sense of the genuine, the real or the unique” 104

(Sharpley 1994 in Wang). Further, we have to differentiate between authentic tourist experience and the authenticity of toured objects. A definition of the latter one was given above. “An authentic experience… is one in which individuals feel themselves to be in touch both with a ‘real’ world and with their ‘real’ selves” (Handler and Saxton 1988 in Wang). Moreover, when talking about authenticity in tourism we can distinguish between three main types, namely objective authenticity, constructive authenticity and existential authenticity. Whereas the objective authenticity refers to an authentic tourism experience based on the museum-linkage usage recognizing toured objects as authentic, the constructive authenticity is result of social construction. That means, toured objects doesn’t have to be inherently authentic for tourists to have an authentic experience, as long as they appear authentic and are constructed authentic in terms of the tourist point of view, beliefs and expectations. In general, tourist project authenticity on objects. The third type is described as activity-related authenticity which means, that the objects don’t have to be authentic in order to achieve an authentic tourist experience. Existential authenticity refers to an existential state of Being which is activated by tourist’ activities and which causes and authentic experience (Wang 1999).

A main motive for cultural tourists is seeking novelty which includes the elements of authenticity and uniqueness. On the one hand, it can be argued that building a terp, huge in size, is a unique attraction point as it is barely somewhere else to find in the Netherlands, thus will attract tourists. On the other side, referring to objective authenticity, the terp will not be authentic as it will be newly constructed next to Eeltjemeer on peat soil, which is not an authentic representation of the Friesian past. The terp can still be causing authentic tourism experiences in terms of constructive and existential authenticity. Based on the results of the survey, 22 responses from 96 acknowledged terps to be typically Friesian and 22 out of 95 respondents are interested in visiting a touristic terp, whereas the majority (43) is uninterested to very uninterested. The lack of authenticity is further issued in additional comments to the survey. People stress that the cultural-historical landscape of Fryslân appeals to them, but they don’t have interest in visiting an artificial, newly build terp. They notice the importance of toured objects to be authentic in the sense of objective authenticity.

Limitations of the survey Referring to the distribution channel of the questionnaire, the survey faces some limitations which can be noticed by looking at the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents. The collection of responses was carried out via Facebook which means that the survey was mainly distributed amongst Dutch friends of a similar age then the team members. Furthermore, due to time shortage we only give basic statistical information instead of going in- depth and doing advanced analyses. By providing the gathered data, we give the opportunity to get more important information about tourists coming to Fryslân in the future.

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Response: Expert from Beleef Fryslân - Heeft het gebied rondom Eeltjemeer toeristische potentie? En zo ja, wat voor toerisme zou er ontwikkeld kunnen worden en op welke doelgroep zou deze toerisme zich moeten richten? Het gebied rondom Eeltjemeer heeft zeker potentie om uit te groeien tot een toeristisch gebied. Het gebied is geschikt voor gezinnen met (jonge) kinderen en senioren. Het Eeltjemeer biedt voor (jonge) kinderen veel vertier en in de omgeving is er ook genoeg te zien en te beleven. Denk aan Dokkum en Leeuwarden (bekend van de Elfstedentocht), de vaarroutes, de (adellijke) bossen in de Trynwalden, de vele wandel-, fiets-, en ruiterpaden.

- Is er een markt voor cultuur historisch toerisme in Fryslân? En zo ja, in hoeverre is dit ontwikkeld? Ja er is een markt voor cultuur historisch toerisme in Fryslân, maar dit kan nog verder ontwikkeld worden.

- In uw mening, wat wordt beschouwd u als typisch Fries? Fryslân is een bijzondere provincie. Denk maar eens aan de eigen Friese taal, de Friese vlag die meteen te herkennen is. En de bekende Friese sporten als kaatsen, fierljeppen en skûtsjesilen. Maar ook op het gebied van erfgoed, natuur en folklore is Fryslân uniek

- Ziet u terpen als typisch Fries? Terpen komen voornamelijk in Fryslân voor, dus in zekere zin is het wel typisch Fries.

- Ziet u terpen als een toeristische attractie/ heeft het volgens u potentie? Een terp bij het Eeltjemeer bouwen zie ik niet als een toeristische attractie met potentie. Slechts een paar kilometer verderop staat de bekendste en hoogste terp van Nederland: de terp van Hegebeintum. Hier zit ook een bezoekerscentrum bij. Het Eeltjemeer kan zich beter richten op een toeristische attractie die in de wijde omgeving nog niet te vinden is.

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Background information tables on tourism Table 22: Inbound travel (arrivals, both leisure and business) in the Netherlands by destination (x 1,000) (NBTC 2012)

Table 23: Domestic holiday by the Dutch by destination (x1,000)(NBTC 2012)

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Table 24: Leisure activities undertaken by the Dutch in 2010 (x million)(NBTC 2012)

Table 25: Type of holiday in Holland in 2009 (NBTC 2012)

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Figure 18: Distribution of main day trip attractions in Fryslân

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Appendix IV – Environment

Appendix IV a – Landscape

Ecostructure areas

Figure 19 – Ecostructure area map of Dantumadiel, Eeltjemeer can be found in the blue circle. (Adapted from Gemeente Dantumadiel 2013b)

Landscape types

Figure 20 - Landscape types of the area around the municipality of Dantumadiel (source: adjusted from ‘verordening romte Fryslân 2011’).

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Appendix IV b – Water

Quality Requirements Dutch Swimming Waters

Table 23 - Quality requirements Dutch swimming waters (van Dreven et al. 2000)

Parameters Aim Imperative Minimum analysis frequency

Microbiological Total coli bacteria per 100 ml 500 10.000 Every two weeks (1) Faecal coli bacteria per 100 ml 100 2.000 Every two weeks (1) Faecal streptococcus per 100 ml 100 - (2) Salmonella per l - 0 (2) Virus PFU per 10 l - 0 (2)

Physical-chemical pH - 6 – 9 (o) (2) Coloration - - (2) Mineral oils (mg/l) ≤ 0,3 - (2) Surface-active substances reacting ≤ 0,3 - (2) to lauryl methylene blue sulphate (mg/l)

Phenol (mg/l) C4H5OH ≤ 0,005 ≤ 0,05 (2) Turbidity (m) 2 1 (o) Every two weeks (1)

Dissolved O2 (% saturation) 80-120 - (2) Rubbish None - Every two weeks (1)

Ammoniac NH4 (mg/l) (3) Kjeldahl Nitrogen N (mg/l) (3) Pesticides (mg/l) (parathion, HCH, (2) dieldrin) Heavy metals As, Cd, Cr(VI), Pb, Hg (2) (mg/l) Cyanides Cn (mg/l) (2)

Nitrates NO3 and Phosphates PO4 (3) (mg/l)

(o) Taking in concern the crossing of limits during exceptional geographical or meteorological circumstances

(1) When analysis in previous years provided better results compared to this table and when no condition has occurred that can reduce the water quality, authorities can reduce the analysis frequency with a factor of 2

(2) This amount needs to be checked by competent authorities when an analysis indicates that these substances are possibly present in the bathing area, or when a reduction of the water quality is observed.

(3) These parameters need to be checked by competent authorities when the water shows signs of eutrophication.

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Conditions of a healthy buffered lake

Table 24 – Conditions that apply to a healthy buffered lake (Beije et al. 2001).

Variable Value

O2 saturation % 70-120 Electrical conductivity µs / cm 250-800 Calcium mg Ca2+ / l 20-70 Chloride mg Cl- / l < 300 2- Sulphate mg SO4 / l 50-100 Depth M 2-6 Surface Ha > 10 Transparency M > 2 Tidal range m < 0,3

Parties involved in water quality measurements

In the Province of Fryslân, the following authorities are active in the maintenance of the quality of the swimming waters during the swimming season:

Wetterskip Fryslân The statutory duty of Wetterskip Fryslân, in the role of water manager for the Frisian waterways within their management area, is to control the quality of the official swimming areas every two weeks during the swimming season. Results of these measurements will be handed over to the province.

GGD Fryslân GGD is active concerning public health and infectious diseases. GGD authenticates types of disease in the Netherlands and checks if there is a connection with surface waters. If so, the GGD is authorized to advice the province to close the official swimming area.

When the swimming location falls under the management of the municipality, GGD will contact that municipality to advice on further research on the water quality of the relevant water body. The possibility also exists that the GGD advices on a total bathing prohibition for the relevant municipality.

Municipalities Regarding public health, the municipality is responsible for communication towards citizens when there is a risk for their health. When citizens have questions regarding bathing in surface waters not designated as a swimming area, the municipality provides explanations regarding health risks.

Province of Fryslân According to the new ‘zwemwaterichtlijn’, the province is authorized to set a permanent negative swimming advice or a permanent bathing prohibition when the swimming location is rated ‘bad’ and no feasible mitigation measures are possible.

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For Eeltjemeer, there are 3 systems to check water quality during the swimming season:

 GGD to interpret symptoms of disease. For Eeltjemeer, it is unknown if any diseases occurred due to water quality issues.  ‘Wet hygiëne en veiligheid badinrichtingen en zwemgelegenheden’ (Whvbz), controlled by the province can give a negative advice on swimming. During the swimming season (1st of May until 30th of September), every two week a water sample is analyzed from the same spot.  Whvbz provides the opportunity for swimming water to provide a holder who frequently analyses the water quality in a simple way. For Eeltjemeer, no holder is active.

Water quality measurement methods

The analysis of the sampling in order to check the water quality during the swimming season is executed according to the following methods:

 Shortly before the start of the swimming season, one sample must be taken. With this sample included and since the swimming season lasts longer than 8 weeks, no less than 4 samples must be taken and analyzed during the swimming season.  The dates of the sampling must be spread over the swimming season. The time between the dates should never be more than 1 month.  After a short period of pollution, an extra sample should be taken to investigate if the pollution has passed. The extra sample cannot be part of the series of samples already taken as mentioned above.

When the concentration of bacterial colonies exceeds the norms, the following measures are taken:

1. When E. coli concentration is exceeded: a. When, according to the supervisor, the crossing is not due to a calculation error, or the crossing is in all probability not of short-term, an initial warning is given. b. When E. coli concentrations exceed for the first time, a new sample will be taken within one week after the first sample. c. When the new sample confirms the crossing of the standard, a negative swimming advice is issued.

2. When IE concentration is exceeded: a. When, according to the supervisor, the crossing is not due to a calculation error, or the crossing is in all probability not of short-term, an initial warning is given. b. When E. coli concentrations exceed for the first time, a new sample will be taken within one week after the first sample. c. When the new sample confirms the crossing of the standard, the warning continues to remain in effect.

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Cyanobacterial temperature preferences

Table 25 - Gives an overview of Cyanobacterial temperature preferences: optima for Cyanobacterial growth: Tmin represents the temperature at which growth ceased when temperatures went lower. Topt represents the temperature at which maximum growth rate (µmax) was observed. (Robarts & Zohary. 1987)

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Appendix IV c - Flora and Fauna law

Articles flora and fauna law

Table 26 - Articles of the Flora and Fauna law (Wetten overheid 2013)

Paragraaf 1. Bepalingen betreffende planten op hun groeiplaats

Artikel 8

Het is verboden planten, behorende tot een beschermde inheemse plantensoort, te plukken, te verzamelen, af te snijden, uit te steken, te vernielen, te beschadigen, te ontwortelen of op enigerlei andere wijze van hun groeiplaats te verwijderen.

Paragraaf 2. Bepalingen betreffende dieren in hun natuurlijke leefomgeving

Artikel 9

Het is verboden dieren, behorende tot een beschermde inheemse diersoort, te doden, te verwonden, te vangen, te bemachtigen of met het oog daarop op te sporen.

Artikel 10

Het is verboden dieren, behorende tot een beschermde inheemse diersoort, opzettelijk te verontrusten.

Artikel 11

Het is verboden nesten, holen of andere voortplantings- of vaste rust- of verblijfplaatsen van dieren, behorende tot een beschermde inheemse diersoort, te beschadigen, te vernielen, uit te halen, weg te nemen of te verstoren.

Artikel 12

Het is verboden eieren van dieren, behorende tot een beschermde inheemse diersoort, te zoeken, te rapen, uit het nest te nemen, te beschadigen of te vernielen.

Whenever the articles 8 -12 of the Flora and fauna law are expected to be violated, it is possible to apply for exemption on the basis of article 75.4. This needs to be requested at the minister of Economic affairs. Obtaining exemptions for a land change project depends on the extent to which the animal- and plant species in the plan area are endangered. Dutch law differentiates between 3 levels of protection (‘Algemene Maatregel van Bestuur 2005, Flora en fauna wet’). For every level, conditions for exemptions become stricter and sometimes even impossible. A general duty of care applies to all the animal- and plant species that are listed under level 1. Animal and plant species

115 which are more heavily protected are covered in level 2 and 3. A short description on the different levels will follow in table 27.

Bird legislation All birds are equally protected in the Netherlands by the Flora and Fauna wet and it is illegal to do anything that will disturb or kill them or harm their nests or roosting spots. All bird fall under protection level 2, but if other activities (then mentioned under level 1) are performed or when one cannot demonstrably perform operations according to an approved Code of Conduct, one needs an exemption from the minister and an extensive investigation will be performed (min. LNV 2013).

For most species, disturbance will be largest when in the breeding season, since the nest area is actively used. Therefor executing construction in other times of the year will greatly reduce the chance of disturbing birds and therefore decreases the chance that an exemption is required for a project. Some species use their nests year round and are therefore also likely to be disturbed in other times of the year; these can be found on a special list min (LNV 2013).

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Table 27 - Overview of the three protection levels of the Flora and Fauna law (Algemene Maatregel van Bestuur 2005, Flora en fauna wet)

Code of Protection Conduct level Allowed required Exemption required Test required Further remarks

Sustainably carried out operational work in the context of management, Light (criteria Level 1 maintenance and nature- and None For all other activities None 1*) agricultural management and work related to landscape and spatial planning

Sustainably carried out operational work in the For all other activities If birds are context of management, and in case that you Light (criteria involved there Level 2 maintenance and nature- and Yes cannot provide a proper 1*) should be an agricultural management and Code of Conduct extensive test work related to landscape and spatial planning

For all other activities and for work related to Sustainably carried out landscape and special Extensive No exemption operational work in the Level 3 Yes planning. And in case (criteria possible for context of management and that you cannot provide 1,2,3**) article 10. maintenance a proper Code of Conduct. *Criteria 1: ‘shall not affect the favourable conservation status of the species’. **Criteria 2: ‘there is no alternative’ **Criteria 3: ‘there is an interest that is supported by the law’

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Flow chart Flora and Fauna wet

Figure 21 - Flow chart Flora and Fauna legislation (Rijksoverheid 2013)

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Appendix V – Technical construction

Watertoets phases

Table 28 - Watertoets phases

Entrepreneur Phase Water manager  Involves stakeholders in the Idea Phase  Joins conversations process  Knows preconditions  Consults for information from the  Knows water interests water manager  Explains information regarding  Informs particular participants on water system information regarding water

 Asks for water information Initiative phase  Provides water information  Makes collaborative appointments  Introduces points of attention  Provides information regarding permits and exemptions  Makes collaborative appointments Appointments

Entrepreneur Phase Water manager  Develops the plan Development-  Thinks along with development of and advice the plan phase  Checks the plan and provides advice regarding water

 Writes water paragraph with the Decision phase  Controls the draft decision provided advice  Possibly provide opinion  Sends draft decision  Consults draft with government or  Organizes participation province regarding instructions  Makes possible objection at council of state

 Implements plan Implementation  Provides permits and exemptions  Manages the plan or transfers the and  Controls implementation and managing management management phase

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Steps for construction with dredge material

Figure 22 - Steps that needed to be taken into account when constructing with dredged material (Besluit bodemkwaliteit 2008)

VST calculations for classifying shear strength

The maximum measured torque in the VST is used to calculate the underline shear strength (Su) as demonstrated in the following calculation:

Su = T/K (1)

In which T represents the torque in N/m or Lb/ft. K = is a constant depending on the dimensions and the shape of the used vane (m3 or ft3), where:

K = π(D2H/2) [1 + (D/3H)] (2)

Where D is diameter (m) and H is height (m).

K = (π/1728) (D2H/2) [1 + (D/3H)] (3)

Where D is diameter (Inch) and H is height (Inch)

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During the calculation of the shear strength a number of assumptions could be made. These include:  no disturbance is caused during installation of the vane or by drilling operations  the ploughed zone around the vane is very small  There is no progressive failure so that the maximum applied torque represents the fully mobilized shear strength along the cylindrical surface.  The soil is completely un-drained. I.e. no consolidation is take place during insertion of the vane or during the test (2).

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Appendix VI – Stakeholders

Organogram municipality of Dantumadiel

Figure 23 - Organogram municipality of Dantumadiel

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Multi-criteria analysis

Table 29 – Multi-criteria analysis

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Appendix VII – SWOT analysis

The SWOT analysis, or SWOT matrix, is a well-structured method that describes the Strengths (1), Weaknesses (2), Opportunities (3) and Threats (4) for planning, marketing, comparison of competition, organizational development, product development, research and team building. In the case of this project, the SWOT analysis was used to determine the strengths and weaknesses found in the 4 aspects as described in this report. When constructing a SWOT-analysis, a number of steps need to be taken into consideration which considers the future of the project:

 Strengths and Weaknesses; representing the strong and weak points of the product, explicitly indicating the internal elements.  Opportunities and Threats; the opportunities and threats are the developments, occurrences and influences concerning the product, explicitly indicating the external elements.  Confrontation matrix; in the confrontation matrix, the internal and external elements face each other. Strengths and Weaknesses (horizontally) and Opportunities and Threats (vertically).  Issues; combinations between internal and external elements, only considering the most important issues.  Strategies; processing the most important issues to strategic questions. Answers on the questions determine the strategy that needs to be taken.

Considering these strategies, the following outcomes can occur, which all have their separate strategies to follow:  Strengths + Opportunities; offensive strategy: Opportunities and Strengths are fully utilized.  Strengths + Threats; defensive strategy: strengths are emphasized while the threats are watched closely.  Weakness + Opportunities; weaknesses need to be reversed and improved.  Weaknesses + Threats; a situation of crisis which needs to be disputed in order to find a solution. Confrontations are necessary. (Fine 2009)

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