Bruinisse, Anna Jacobapolder, Sirjansland

The Philipsdam near Bruinisse was created as part of the Delta Works, a major project to protect the Netherlands from flooding. From this came the Krammer Locks, which allow passage and regulate water management.

The dam separates the salt water of the Oosterschelde from the fresh water of the Volkerak-Zoommeer. The construction of the Philips Dam slowly changed the salt water of the Volkerak into fresh water, which had a major impact on the ecosystem. Along the coast of the Zeeland islands, special mudflats and salt marshes were created, where new plants and animals found their place.

Constructing the Philips Dam was a complex challenge, as various interests had to be taken into account. Nature conservation, water management, energy supply and the wishes of local residents all had to be balanced. At about the same time, Windpark Krammer was created, an extraordinary project that emerged from the largest citizens' initiative in the Netherlands. Cycling between the imposing wind turbines, with kilometres of views over the dam, creeks, the Oosterschelde and the flat Zeeland countryside, feels almost like an otherworldly experience.

Naturally, the nature around the Philips Dam must be protected as much as possible. The wind farm therefore includes some innovative technology, such as the camera detection system that shuts down the wind turbines as soon as birds or bats are nearby. This allows the animals to fly over safely and look for food.

Photo: ©Ineke Geelhoed, via Windpark Krammer