The pilot with a voluntary 'navigation tax' in National Park De Biesbosch will continue this year and be expanded to multiple municipalities. The initiative by Stichting Biesbosch Vaantje demonstrates how additional funding for nature and facilities can be organized, with the involvement of users and governments.
The trial started in 2025 in Drimmelen and has since been expanded to include Altena, Dordrecht, Geertruidenberg, and Oosterhout. Water sports enthusiasts and recreational users can purchase a pennant. The proceeds fully benefit projects in National Park De Biesbosch, such as construction and mooring facilities.
Cooperation
The foundation manages all proceeds and fully dedicates them to mooring projects. The participating municipalities ensure funding for the foundation's costs. Staatsbosbeheer pays for research expenses and permits in this pilot year. The pilot shows that a voluntary contribution can function as an additional source of funding, provided clear agreements are made regarding management and expenditure. It also appears that cooperation between involved parties is an important condition for execution and continuity.
Further Development
With the goal of increasing the number of participants and raising revenue, the parties are working on the further development of this model. The foundation aims to double the number of pennants sold compared to over 300 in 2025 and aims for at least 75,000 euros in revenue this year.
More Information
More information can be found on the website biesboschvaantje.nl.