When they came into contact with the neighbors and the love for flora and fauna quickly became a common interest, a seed was planted. Not only figuratively, but also literally. “We started to create a nature reserve in the area, because we also think that is important for the next generation,” says Pilon. His son is also a biologist, while his daughter’s partner comes from a family of biologists. In short, there is no shortage of knowledge.
And not only that, because the enthusiasm of the Pilon family and their neighbors was contagious. Other local residents also got a taste for preserving biodiversity. “Picking gardens have been created, small-scale initiatives have been set up, hedgerows have been installed, trees have been planted and native plant species have been added. When I look at what has happened since we moved here, it is really great.”
While planes take off and land 300 meters away as the crow flies, Zuideinde has become a flora and fauna El Dorado. About ten to twelve local residents who together own 15 hectares of land are now committed to biodiversity in Eelde-Zuid.
“The other people who help have joined over the years and consciously choose the peace and space. Some families in Zuideinde have lived there for generations. They are often originally Drenthe farmers with small businesses who were not well off. The developments in recent decades have been at the expense of their company, but here they can continue their hobby on a small scale. A blessing in disguise.”
Pilon himself is also of farmer descent. He doesn’t let a day go by to enjoy nature and his neighbors feel the same way. There was great consternation when a new local resident decided during corona times to build a wooden barrier to join two pieces of land together, Pilon remembers. “Wow, that caused a bit of a stir. A local newspaper paid attention to it and subsequently six hundred responses were received from people who wanted to help with the reconstruction. Six hundred,” beams Pilon. “Really heartwarming.”
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