Vital nature

The increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves makes the precipitation-dependent local flora more susceptible to pests and diseases. More drought-tolerant species are becoming dominant over species that are adapted to cooler temperatures, with possible far-reaching consequences for the area's biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. This includes species with cultural value such as beech.

Nitrogen deposition from traffic and agricultural sources poses a risk for soil and water eutrophication and acidification. However, we do not know enough about the intensity of nitrogen deposition in the area, how nitrogen moves from its source through the landscape and its effect on different species.

Due to the high intensity of recreational pressure human-wildlife interactions are likely to increase. The study of human-wildlife interactions investigates how we can facilitate coexistence with wildlife through adaptive management of human and wildlife behavior. For this we need to know amongst others: which interactions occur, what is the impact of different recreational activities and how do visitors of the NPUH experience these interactions?  

The landscape of the NPUH is fragmented by urbanization and recreational infrastructure. Studying in what ways nature can be best connected in the NPUH and throughout the flanks facilitates decision-making that respects and benefits the area’s fauna. This includes the monitoring of wildlife around ecoducts, and regreening of urban environments. Examples of the latter are biodiversity hubs in urban environments through NPUH’s Zusterparken project and stimulating regreening of citizen garden’s through NPUH’s Heuvelrugtuinen project. 

Because of deep groundwater levels NPUH's flora is strongly dependent of precipitation for its water supply, while at the flanks of the national park seepage water rises to the surface and provides water for a large variety of species. Much is still unknown about the water system of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, both at the flanks and in the national park itself. This concerns both the functioning of the natural water system in the park and the effects of water management strategies on nature. The partners of Stichting NPUH work together on a robust water system through the Blauwe Agenda. The Research & Education Hub Utrechtse Heuvelrug aims to provide the necessary scientific support for well-informed choices by the partners.