The Molsbroek owes its origin to some passionate bird lovers, who could use the so-called ‘Potpolder VIII' [= Molsbroek], together with the natural science museum in Belgium, as from 1962 for scientific purposes.  
The non-profit institution Durme received a mandate to ensure the concrete management and supervision. This regional association for nature conservation and environmental protection was founded on 27 January 1969 , amongst others to make every effort so that the Molsbroek in Lokeren could become a real nature reserve. In 1984, the Molsbroek, with its 80 ha, became one of the two largest areas in Flanders which is acknowledged as European nature reserve.

The reserve has a varied biotope with dry river dunes, fancifully interwoven between silted, moist land. Because expansion was not possible in this area, modern technological agriculture has never had any influence here. Because the small-scale use by agriculture lasted for centuries – when manure with fertilizers was not yet applied – the existence and development of local natural resources was also made possible.  

The Molsbroek is surrounded by an asphalted promenade of 4,5 km, which is accessible for wheelchairs. The Biznis Hotel has its own entrance to this promenade. From this point, you can look over the entire nature reserve with a unique view. Observation posts or hides are not necessary, binoculars are recommended.
Did you know that 306 different kinds of plants are determined in the nature reserve, 364 types of moths and 25 butterflies live there, 44 different spiders are present and 235 colourful birds are spotted?

The colony of big black-headed gulls welcomes you from March to July with a beautiful concert! For the good observers, there are also fishes, amphibians, snails, butterflies and beetles. The Molsbroek is in fact an ideal fish farm with several hectares of shallow water. From the promenade, you can enjoy groups of fish during hot days in May-June which are turning and floundering just below the water surface, while they are laying eggs. The insect garden may give you some ideas for your own garden, but did you know that a little spider was found which only occurs in 10 locations in 4 countries all over the world: Carorita paludosa.

If you want to relax during your walk, you can go to the Visitor’s centre at the end of the Molsbergenstraat.

You can sit on the terrace with a beer that was brewed especially for the Visitor’s centre, as from 1985: 'Dobbelken'. This beer is brewed based on information of former breweries in Lokeren.

Come and discover the nature reserve Molsbroek, where each season has its own specific richness.

Domien van Parys, Chairman vzw Durme.
http://www.vzwdurme.be