Next in line was the Markerwaard, and for that the Houtribdijk was constructed between Enkhuizen and Lelystad in 1975, cutting off
the southern part of the IJsselmeer and creating the Markermeer. But plans for the Markerwaard were skipped in 2003 and the lake
got a recreational function. But, as there is no major inflow or outflow of water, quality and ecology of the the lake deteriorated.
Natuurmonumenten,
a Dutch nature conservation organization, designed a challenging plan to create an artificial archipelago of islands that would improve
the flora and fauna of the lake and become a food heaven for migrating birds.
Called Marker Wadden, and located just south of the Houtribdijk
and west of Lelystad, these islands were to be constructed by using the accumulated silt of the Markermeer.
Work started in 2016 and
soon after the first mudflats emerged, they were already discovered and colonized by birds. By 2023, more than 140 species of birds have
been spotted here, and counting.
By the end of 2018 the main island was opened to the public, access is by private
boat or via the ferry from Lelystad.
There is a visitor center from where trails lead the visitors through dunes, over mudflats and
along shallow waters. Birds are everywhere, feeding on abundant fish and insects.
This grand project of manmade nature is a work
in progress and new sets of islands are planned or allready in the making.
Marker Wadden is incorporated in Nieuw Land, the country's
newest National Park.
