What is the case?

The Súd le is an old trench that used to run from the Wadden Sea into the land. Nowadays, it is a canal from Dokkum to Ezumazijl. Its function as a waterway has disappeared due to several low bridges over the watercourse. By closing off the area with pumping stations and weirs from the Lauwersmeer and the Wadden Sea, its ecological function has also been minimised. This project aims to combine and connect the economy, recreation, and ecology by restoring the old functions.

What is the project doing about it?

In earlier phases of the project, several fish passages were constructed around the Súd Ie, and nature-friendly banks were created. The next step is to open the ‘front door’ of the Súd Ie by realising fish passages at Oostmahorn and Ezumazijl. The aim is to create a better connection, allowing migratory fish to move between the Wadden Sea, Lauwersmeer, and Súd Ie. Additionally, designated polder areas are being investigated for their suitability as spawning and nursery grounds for eel and three-spined stickleback. To this end, we will track fish, study their migration behaviour, and further investigate the biodiversity of the ditches in the area.

What does the project deliver?

The research will provide knowledge about the accessibility and function of the fish-passable (nature) areas for eel and three-spined stickleback. This will lead to advice on the sustainable management and use of these areas in and around the Súd Ie.

Project details Applied research group: Coastal & Marine Systems
Researcher: Jeroen Huisman, Fish Ecology
Duration: 2019 - 2023
Project partners: Wetterskip Fryslân, Municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân, Sportvisserij Fryslân, Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences, It Fryske Gea, and Province of Fryslân

Project details

Applied research group: Coastal & Marine Systems
Researcher: Jeroen Huisman, Fish Ecology
Duration: 2019 - 2023
Project partners: Wetterskip Fryslân, Municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân, Sportvisserij Fryslân, Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences, It Fryske Gea, and Province of Fryslân