The Netherlands is a small and densely populated country, but nevertheless surprisingly diverse and harbouring a large number of biotopes. The reason for this diversity is threefold. First, the unique position of this low-lying country in the delta of four large river systems (Eem, Rijn-Waal-IJssel, Maas and Schelde), resulting in a series of contrasting environmental conditions: dry versus wet, eutrophic versus oligotrophic, extreme differences in soil reaction (basic-acidic) and a diverse set of sediments (clay, sand, peat). On top of this variation, human interference over time has resulted a wide range of  semi-natural ecosystems, ranging from traditionally managed forests, shrublands, heathlands, grasslands, reed beds and other wetlands, arable fields and ruderal communities. Finally, a long history in nature conservation, started with the preservation of Lake Naardermeer in 1905, could safeguard most of the diverse landscapes with their typical communities. The ongoing intertwining of nature and society in the Netherlands makes this crowded country a remarkable corner of natural Europe.
 

The Master course will focus on the natural diversity of the Netherlands, each time picturing one of the major biomes connected to phytogeographical regions of the Netherlands: forests, grasslands, mires, arable fields, coastal dunes and salt marshes. Every week, two lectures will be presented. In the first lecture, the ‘biome of the week’ will be discussed in terms of natural and cultural history, environmental conditions, its plant diversity and the major challenges to protect or restore it. In the second lecture, a young scientist (PhD, Postdoc) will speak about the research he or she is carrying out in such biome, in the Netherlands or abroad. In this way, the students will get an insight in their own foreland, when they will come in the position to start a scientific career after finishing their study.

Instructional Modes