Joining forces with farmers for the European hamster

At a recent info session for the LIFE Cricetus project in Tongeren-Borgloon, farmers, partners and local authorities can together to discuss how to protect the hamster in Flanders (Belgium).

Representatives of PXL BIO, Boerennatuur and Vlaamse Landmaatschappij (VLM) presented the project’s goals and first steps. They emphasised the project’s bottom-up approach and the ambition to give farmers a central role in shaping measures and policies.

Protecting the hamster not only benefits biodiversity, but also supports farmers by improving soil quality and reducing dependence on fertilisers. As an umbrella species, the presence of the hamster is an indicator of a healthy and diverse agricultural landscape.

The presentations led to an open and constructive discussion, with farmers sharing their experiences and exploring solutions, an encouraging sign for future cooperation.

Together, we can show that nature and agriculture truly go hand in hand.