Nature reserve De Olde Kene - Hoogeveen

The Olde Kene, despite its name, is a relatively young nature reserve around the Oude Diep. The area covers some 30 hectares and consists of both the old and the new course of the stream. Since 2008, the Oude Diep has been given more space here. Originally, the stream flowed from the moors in Drenthe towards the provincial border, but due to various interventions, its natural course has largely disappeared. Together with several parties, the ‘Oude Diep’ project is trying to restore its natural and landscape values.

The Olde Kene attracts many birds. Spoonbills come here to forage for food after nesting in the Wadden area. Reed banks also purify urban wastewater. This cleaner water then flows into the Oude Diep, improving water quality. This makes the area increasingly attractive to various bird species and other animals.

The area is also a paradise for frogs. Both brown and green frogs live here. Eels have also found a habitat here. The stream acts as an ecological linking zone and ensures safe movement and development of these species.