As a student in Groningen, Irene Japenga had a part-time job in postal delivery. Every two weeks, she delivered mail in the Lauwersmeer and immediately fell in love with this beautiful area, the peace, the open space, and the beautiful skies. Originally from Maastricht, Irene now lives in Vierhuizen, where she and her husband Marten have a B&B with 4 rooms and a holiday cottage with a sauna, right next to Lauwersmeer National Park. In addition to her activities for the B&B, Irene is on the board of Promotie Waddenland, a regional marketing organization.
Scout
On a beautiful day, Irene was walking with an acquaintance along the narrow path through the Kollumerwaard when a Konik horse suddenly stood before them: "The animal looked at us inquisitively and did not move aside. After a few minutes, the horse took a few steps to the side and continued grazing. We felt that we were allowed to pass by. So, we gathered up our courage and walked very carefully right past the horse. That was quite exciting. When I later told that story to the ranger, they said that this horse was a scout of the herd and that it apparently approved of our visit. That made me happy. That humans and animals still give each other space. And grateful that I can be there and enjoy nature.”
Irene and Marten often and gladly take delightful walks with the dog in the national park: “Clearing the mind. And it's beautiful and different every season. But spring is definitely a favorite. Everything comes back to life. Eagerly looking out for the first blooming orchids. But also the mushrooms in the fall I find fantastic. I'm a real ground observer. I love sitting along the water of the Zoutkamperril. Peacefully enjoying the sounds, the boats passing by and the beautiful skies. Every time I am there I am overwhelmed by a wonderful vacation feeling and feel free. And that almost in my backyard!”
Dark Sky Park
Irene thinks a lot about the area and its future: “We must ensure that the beautiful nature is preserved and that we can continue to enjoy it now and in the future. We need to keep giving it our full attention. And that's a big challenge, because I do see quite a few threats coming toward the area. For me, nature comes first, and together we must continuously maintain the balance between humans and nature. I am very pleased that we as residents are involved in this. I do have a specific wish: trash bins at all parking lots in the national park. Hopefully, this will contribute to less litter.”
“I also find it very beautiful that the Lauwersmeer is a Dark Sky Park. We see that this especially appeals to younger people and therefore brings a different audience to the area. In general, I see that young people are more consciously and actively engaged with nature and sustainability.”