This interreg project aims to give the otter additional opportunities by working on de-fragmentation and connecting wetland areas.
Ecological corridors in Amay
The project
In the Bande stream area, residents were regularly faced with flooding caused by a significant runoff problem. To address this issue, a project was launched to plant 1,250 metres of double-row hedges. These hedges, composed of fruit-bearing species that promote biodiversity, are intended to slow runoff and improve the local environment. Rather than taking a piecemeal approach, the Kick team chose to adopt a comprehensive strategy, identifying strategic locations for intervention throughout the area. They then contacted local farmers, working only with those who wanted to get involved in the project. The response from residents has been enthusiastic. Carlo Alfieri, a resident of Amay, says: ‘Many of us are delighted. We can see that things are moving forward to find solutions, and this will help reduce runoff.’

Project location
Contribution(s)
Project costs
Participant(s)

This project was made possible thanks to funding from the Municipality of Amay and support from Kick and Plant C. We worked together with Natagriwal for their expertise and Marché Publique to select an external partner. Implementation of the project was with the municipality, two farmers and PlantC.
How are the criteria of the objective met?
Ecological connectivity
- Facilitate the safe migration of animal and/or plant species across the different zones of the green-blue network;
- Use native species, and subspecies that are more resilient and resistant to climate change, if appropriate;
- Restore and/or promote biodiverse landscape elements (e.g. trees, hedges, flowers, rivers) along linear infrastructures (e.g. roads, railroads);
- Have respect for and/or improve the environmental and ecological characteristics of the area;
- Incorporate these amenities into the surrounding area and environment;
- Manage the amenities ecologically (e.g. no use or rational use of pesticides).
Possible initiatives in which the project is involved :

Long-term maintenance
Long-term maintenance and management is provided by the municipality.
Benefits
For all these good reasons, in autumn 2024, 1,250 metres of tree lines were planted in the Rue du Fawe and Rue Rochamps areas of Amay:
- 200 metres of fruit trees (walnut trees)
- 1,050 metres of hedges, most of which are double rows
These locations were chosen both for their potential in terms of biodiversity and for their positive impact on the runoff that regularly affects the neighbourhoods below, along the Bende stream.
Another 450-metre project will also be implemented by the end of 2025.
Other projects linked to the objective: "Ecological connectivity"
VAPEO
Flemish Action Programme Ecological Defragmentation
Behaag je tuin
Joint purchase of native hedges, hedgerows, wood edges and high-stemmed (fruit) trees