INLAND DUNE VEGETATION OF THE NETHERLANDS

Drifting sands in the Netherlands are the result of human over-exploitation (sod-cutting, over-grazing) of woodlands and heathlands. The most important association of inland sand dune areas is the Spergulo-Corynephoretum (Corynephorion canescentis), which is poor in vascular plants, but in it older stager rich in mosses and especially lichens. In the Netherlands, the area of drifting sand is reduced dramatically in the last 70 years. mainly by afforestation and spontaneous succession.