Prince Hendrik Sand Dike - Texel

Our climate is changing, sea levels are rising, it is raining more often, the ground is sinking, and we are experiencing more frequent flooding. If we do nothing, Texel, which lies largely below sea level, will be flooded. The Wadden Sea dyke protects Texel from high water from the Wadden Sea. That is why a total of 18 kilometre was reinforced on Texel between 2017 and 2019. The Prins Hendrik sand dyke is part of the Wadden Sea dyke: a kilometre sand dyke has been constructed in the Wadden Sea in front of the dyke.

Living safely behind the dike

Nowadays, dikes must be able to withstand super storms that occur once every 4,000 years, according to the law. The Prins Hendrikpolder was reclaimed in 1847. An assessment in 2006 revealed that the dike here, which was last reinforced in the 1980s, no longer met the requirements for water safety. Reinforcing the dike on the Wadden Sea side with sand saved scarce agricultural land. This solution not only ensured a future-proof dike but also strengthened the natural values of the Wadden Sea.

Reinforce with sand

It is almost impossible to imagine, but this area has undergone a true metamorphosis. The idea to reinforce the dike with sand came from various interest groups on Texel. Thanks to the unique collaboration between the water board, the municipality of Texel, the province of North Holland, the Wadden Fund, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Flood Protection Program, Jan De Nul, and Staatsbosbeheer, the project was realized. The sand reinforcement covers 200 hectares, which is equivalent to 400 soccer fields. The end result closely resembles the natural landscape that existed before the dike was built. The result is a new dune landscape against the old dike and a salt marsh landscape on the sea side. The transition between land and water is now natural again. Due to the dynamic nature of the area, this part of the Texel sea defense will continue to meet the strict water safety requirements for decades to come.

Development of nature

Nature in the Wadden Sea is under pressure. The Prins Hendrikzanddijk contributes to the restoration and strengthening of the natural values in the Wadden Sea. As a Natura 2000 area, the Prins Hendrikzanddijk is part of the European network of protected nature areas. This varied and dynamic area consists of mud flats, salt marshes, salt meadows, beaches, and dunes. This area offers peace and space to all kinds of wading birds such as eiders, avocets, ringed plovers, oystercatchers, and red knots. Some of these species are struggling. It is becoming increasingly difficult for beach breeders in particular to find a safe breeding ground, where peace and quiet are essential. Here, the mudflat nature is given the space to develop in all its dynamism; the wind and sea will continue to shape the landscape in the coming years. Monitoring is used to keep an eye on the development of the area.

Experience the area

A bike path runs through the dunes, merging with the old dike halfway along. From the dunes, you have a beautiful view of the Wadden Sea and the sandy peninsula. The walking path connects to the Ceres walk. A short walk takes you to the viewpoint with a view of the nature and wildlife of the Wadden Sea. The viewpoint is also accessible to disabled visitors. The Ceres beach can be visited from the Oudeschild side. The Hollands Noorderkwartier Water Board is responsible for water safety and Staatsbosbeheer is the manager of the new nature reserve.

The Hollands Noorderkwartier Water Authority is surrounded by water. The primary flood defenses protect us from this water. The reinforcement of the Prins Hendrikzanddijk is part of the High Water Protection Program (HWBP): a programme the national government and water authorities work closely together to protect the Netherlands from flooding.