Leersumseplassen

The Leersumse Veld with its associated ponds is located in a natural depression, shaped during the Ice Age by meltwater in the Utrecht Hill Ridge. Due to deforestation and grazing, the soil became impoverished, and the area mainly consisted of heath and sand drifts. In the lowest part, water remained stagnant, creating a swamp from which peat was extracted in the eighteenth century. The peat was dried into turf. What remained were three dredged ponds. These were purchased in 1911 by Hilversum resident M.C. Verloop. A swimming pool was dug in the first pond, and he had channels excavated around the ponds where children could canoe. Since 1941, the area has been managed by Staatsbosbeheer, allowing space for nature development. The Leersum ponds provide an ideal breeding ground for birds. Therefore, the area directly around the water is not accessible during the breeding season (March 15 - July 31).

De Wandelmaker