Posted on March 4, 2026
The construction of the Marker Wadden – seven unique nature islands in the Markermeer Lake in the Netherlands – is one of the many highlights in Boskalis’ recent history in the Netherlands. In 2021, the last of more than 30 million cubic meters of sand, silt, and clay for this innovative project was dredged, and the islands were handed over to Natuurmonumenten. However, handing over the proverbial keys did not mark the end of our involvement in this paradise of silt and clay. Recently, we carried out maintenance works in the nature reserve.
This maintenance was necessary because part of the sand had been washed away by natural erosion due to the several storms combined with high water levels in recent years. Using the cutter suction dredger Rhône, Boskalis Nederland brought in another 150,000 cubic meters of sand for several beach nourishments on the main island. In addition, we received an extra assignment from Natuurmonumenten to apply another 210,000 cubic meters of silt in specific marsh areas. This additional silt enables, among other things, the restoration of reed beds, allowing nature to continue developing on its own. In this way, we ensure that the Marker Wadden can remain a paradise for people and wildlife for decades to come.
