MUD
Unfinishable Markermeer, The Markermeer Plan
The making of any island is an act of optimism and renewal. Growing out
of the mud in the protective embrace of hard-edged havens the new
wildlife and human settlements will perhaps provoke a potent mixture of
feelings: struggle, renewal, fragility, precariousness and strength. I
hope that each island will grow in a way that articulates and reflects
something of the emotional struggle of those living around the edge of
the mere.
The ring of islands in the Markermeer would help restore the declining
ecological balance in the mere by creating quiet waters in the lee of
the islands. Here less turbid waters would allow the water bourne silt
to fall making clear water edge conditions.
The huge marsh is placed where new openings in the Houtribdyke would
act as the ‘lungs’ of the mere oxygenating the water and making
habitats for marsh birds and the white-tailed eagle.
The Oranjesluizen would be moved further away from Amsterdam to a line
drawn across between Waterland and Almerestad. The inhabited islands of
Markeroogen would shape a new waterfront for Amsterdam/Lelystad
addressing the Markermeer and the historical reference of the former
Zuiderzee.
I should like that most islands be inhabited by wildlife only. However,
I know that governments, dredge companies, tourism and recreation
industries and nature conservation are all competing for their stake on
the landscape. Yet, the mere needs to keep its open horizon and become
a place for all living things to thrive. Within the realm of these
struggles the islands will take shape.