Van Oord’s crane vessel ‘Werkendam’ has arrived in the IJsselmeer to prepare for the construction of a nature island as part of the Wind Farm Fryslân project. During the construction of the wind farm this new island will be used as a work island.
The Werkendam, Van Oord’s first vessel to run entirely on LNG, will first start with dredging activities, removing sludge from the seabed. The freed space is then filled with sand which will function as a solid foundation for a lee dam. The dam is part of a 2 hectares island and will enable for vessels to load and unload in a sheltered area. In addition, a 25 hectares shallow water zone for birds is constructed.
Once the construction activities for the wind farm are completed the island will be further developed to function as a foraging and resting area for birds. It will also include an artificial reef for fish.