Griesbroek

The Griesbroek is a nature reserve in the Grote Netewoud in the Belgian municipality of Balen. It is located between Hulsen and Olmen in the valley of the Grote Nete and is managed by Natuurpunt. In addition to the Grote Nete, the Heiloop and the Laak also flow through the area. The area, originally a swamp forest, was deforested from the 10th century onwards. Initially, it was used for grazing sheep, later fenced meadows were added that were used as hay meadows. Around 1500 this was a fact. Later, a flood meadow system was used to bring in nutrient-rich water from the Grote Nete to increase grass production. Peat extraction was practiced for centuries and iron ore was also mined at the end of the 19th century.

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