Langwarder Groden
Making room for the Wadden: The Langwarder Groden
One of the largest renaturation projects in the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park is located in Butjadingen, stretching between Fedderwardersiel and Langwarden, the so-called Landwarder Groden. In 2014, the summer dike of the polder was deliberately opened to reconnect the 140-hectare polder to the tidal Wadden Sea, compensating for the impacts from the construction of the JadeWeserPort in Wilhelmshaven, as well as for dike lengthening in Jade Bay. On 70 hectares, topsoil was removed to recreate conditions suitable for natural salt marsh development, and today more than 50% of the area is regularly submerged by the tides. Visitors can experience this great spectacle and the large restoration area with their own eyes via a circular hiking trail that leads through the Landwarder Groden. The restored site has created conditions where typical Wadden Sea species are gradually returning to the area. Birds, such as oystercatchers, avocets, and sandpipers are increasingly spotted feeding and nesting, while fish and invertebrates benefit from the restored intertidal habitat.
In recognition of its successful restoration, Langwarder Groden was voted “Nature Wonder of the Year” in 2024 by the Heinz Sielmann Foundation and the German Hiking Association, highlighting the return of typical Wadden Sea species and thriving salt marsh habitats. The restoration process and the development of salt marshes are closely monitored by the regional National Park Authority, ensuring the project continues to evolve successfully while supporting the rich coastal ecosystem.
Why is it a NbS (with regards to IUCN Definition)?
Increasing biodiversity through saltmarsh development (also contribution to coastal protection?)
Purpose of the NbS:
Restoration of a closed-off polder as compensation for the construction of the JadeWeserPort in Wilhelmshaven.
Context of the NbS
Compensation pooling for JadeWeserPort
Further information on this NbS:
Langwarder Groden zum Naturwunder des Jahres 2024
Renaturierung von Salzwiesen im Nationalpark Niedersächsisches Wattenmeer
