The Hannecartbos was created in the 1920s on an area of grasslands and dune fields. The then owner, the Hannecart family, wanted to create a hunting domain there. The intended goal was not primarily to promote biodiversity, which is why fast-growing tree species were chosen.
Not all 48 hectares of the area were forested. There is grassland on the northeastern edge, as well as on the southern edge, where there is also a small zone of early medieval kopsduinen. Here and there the forest still shows park-like features, such as an overgrown avenue with the trees neatly lined up.
After purchase by the government and protection as a nature reserve, a drastic restoration program was drawn up for the forest. For example, dying trees are being cut down on an area of six hectares to restore the original grasslands. The grazing is done with Shetland ponies in demarcated areas. The stream is being cleaned up, its course regulated by weirs. Targeted plantings of native tree species should ensure that the forest shows a greater variety in the long term, resulting in an increased natural value.
(dekust.be)
It is a beautiful area to walk through.