The Walenboscomplex; a conservation site of national importance in Brabant,Belgium

The Walenboscomplex is one of the few remaining natural sites of the Hageland, a mainly agricultural region in central Belgium. The vegetation characteristic of the area requires periodic management, protection on its own not being sufficient. A review of the legislation available to protect natural areas in Belgium is given. Because of damage by hunting activities, the threat of industrial development and water abstraction, together with the need for conservation management, the Walenboscomplex can only be saved by its establishment as a nature reserve by government decree.