Verbeteren kwaliteit kruiden- en faunarijk grasland N12.02

Herb-rich and fauna-rich grasslands in the Netherlands cover around 81,000 hectares, varying across soil types and moisture conditions. Historically managed with fertilisers, pesticides, and soil disturbance, these areas have degraded potential for biodiversity. This guidance note outlines challenges such as hydrological changes, loss of seed banks, and invasive species dominance. It highlights key ecological features like diverse herb and grass mixtures, open spaces, and structural elements that support invertebrates, birds, and small mammals. Poorly managed grasslands show low herb cover, dense litter, and reduced biodiversity. Effective management, including grazing assessment, can restore ecological quality and enhance habitat value.