Hamelspoel has been designated by the Province of North Brabant as an area with low ecological quality but with significant development potential. The lake, originally created through sand extraction, offers ample room for improvement. Recurring measures against blue-green algae and water quality issues have proven insufficient, which is why we are opting for an integrated approach that structurally strengthens the water system.

By investing in nature development, a robust and resilient water system is created, better able to withstand both drought and heavy rainfall. This approach aligns with the Water Management Programme 2022–2027 and the objectives of the EU Water Framework Directive. At the same time, we aim to be a stepping stone for the creation of a nature connection between Herperduin and Keent, in line with the ambitions of the Brabant Nature Network and ecological corridors.

Through redevelopment, Hamelspoel and its surroundings gain a new future perspective. By deepening the lake, naturally shaping the banks, and gradually connecting it to the Putwielen, water quality is sustainably improved, creating space for richer aquatic nature. The area becomes more attractive for small-scale recreation and plays an important role in water management. The necessary works also provide sufficient sand for an economically feasible total concept, contributing to regional construction and infrastructure projects.

Between the Ewijk junction and the villages of Deest and Winssen, Smals collaborates with partners at Geertjesgolf: an area where sustainable extraction and landscape development reinforce each other. In the coming years, we will extract clay, sand and gravel in a future-proof manner to ensure the Netherlands can continue to build and develop.

At the same time, the area is gradually gaining a new identity. Geertjesgolf is evolving into a living and recreational area where nature, water and people are in balance. Climate adaptation, biodiversity and care for the surroundings are central to every choice we make.

This combination of reliable raw material extraction and attention to nature and quality of life makes Geertjesgolf a unique project whose benefits will be enjoyed by the region for years to come.

At the edge of Hoogstede, Smals has been extracting high-quality sand in Kalle for years for housing, infrastructure and other applications. The location is known for its consistent quality and a working method that respects the landscape and surroundings.

The banks of the extraction lake, where sand extraction is completed, are shaped naturally, creating a diverse habitat for plants and animals. Collaboration with the local fishing association also gives the lake a valuable recreational function.

We continue to invest in cleaner techniques in Kalle. By working largely electrically, we reduce emissions and noise, progressively building a climate-friendly extraction process.

At the edge of Wippingen and Renkenberge, Smals has been extracting high-quality sand for regional construction and infrastructure projects for years. The location lies within a lively nature area where people and nature frequently meet.

Biodiversity is abundant around the extraction lake: sand martins nest in the banks, numerous bird species forage along the shores, foxes roam the area, and occasionally even wolves appear. By consulting with residents and the municipality to naturally shape the environment, we aim to create safe and attractive habitats that benefit both people and nature.

We also continue investing in sustainability. New techniques improve water quality and make our extraction more energy-efficient. The local community benefits as well, with sand supplied for local infrastructure projects and associations such as the beach volleyball club.

In recent years, Smals has extracted high-quality sand in rural Itterbeck. For some time now, activities have shifted from sand extraction to redeveloping the lake and its surroundings.

By creating wetland zones and reintroducing native vegetation along the edges, the lake and surroundings have naturally developed, creating unique biotopes.

The location is renowned in the wider area for its landscape qualities and the value it provides to nature. The land has been transferred to the Fürst zu Bentheimische Domänenkammer, which has long focused on sustainable forest management.

Kloosterhaar bouwgrondstoffen is a collaboration between two family businesses: Koninklijke Smals and Plegt-Vos. Together, we sustainably extract construction sand from a roughly 100-hectare area, formed during the Ice Age as a valuable sand ridge.

Sustainability is central to our approach. When extracting sand, we consider the surroundings, nature values and minimal environmental impact. Short supply lines make the necessary types of sand available efficiently and with low emissions.

With our combined experience in sustainable extraction and area development, we are building a future-proof landscape in Kloosterhaar and supplying high-quality construction materials.

Near Echten, Roelofs Zandwinning and Smals jointly operate VOF Echten: the central extraction of fill and industrial sand in Southwest Drenthe. The location is directly adjacent to the Hoogeveense Vaart and plays an important role in regional projects.

Nature development receives attention during and after extraction. Wherever possible, banks are naturally shaped during exploitation. The lake also serves an important water retention function: during heavy rainfall, large volumes of water can be stored, preventing flooding elsewhere.

To reduce local impact, a special bridge was built for trucks and cyclists so heavy traffic avoids the village. After the exploitation period, the bridge remains for pedestrian and cyclist use, providing a safe crossing over the Hoogeveense Vaart.

In the IJsselmeer, Smals collaborates with other sand extractors within De Zandkoepel v.o.f. on maintenance of the Urk–Den Oever navigation channel. Over a stretch of approximately 19 km, we extract sand to maintain the proper depth for safe and smooth shipping.

Alongside maintenance, Smals explores opportunities for future developments in the IJsselmeer area. In cooperation with partners and authorities, we investigate how sustainable sand extraction, ecological enhancement and area development can support each other. This contributes to a future-proof IJsselmeer where economy, nature and water safety are balanced.

On the east side of Helmond, Smals developed Berkendonk: a former sand extraction site now transformed into a popular recreation and nature area. The extraction provided high-quality sand for regional construction projects and laid the foundation for a landscape transformation with lasting value.

By carefully shaping the lake and naturalising the banks, a diverse habitat for plants and animals was created. The water clarity, depth variation and sheltered zones make Berkendonk attractive for aquatic life and birds. The development demonstrates how an extraction site can evolve into a rich ecosystem fitting within the Brabant landscape.

For the city of Helmond, Berkendonk has become an important location for recreation and sports. The beach, walking routes and water body are heavily used by residents and visitors, making the area ecologically and socially significant.

Berkendonk exemplifies how Smals combines sustainable extraction with future-proof area development. What began as sand extraction is now an attractive, natural and versatile recreational area that the region can be proud of.

Over 45 years, the area has become a model for integrated area development in the Netherlands. Once farmland, it is now a diverse space for living, recreation and nature. The project includes one of the largest linked raw material extractions connected to the inland water network.

Together with municipalities, residents and other stakeholders, Smals developed a plan for a total area of 1,200 hectares. A high-quality residential environment has been created, accessible by car and boat. Additionally, beaches, moorings, landmarks and extensive nature areas have been developed. Over 25 km of new water and shorelines were realised.

Through phased and careful planning, the area gained a new identity with space for biodiversity and water quality. The Kraaijenbergse Plassen are now a popular destination for recreation and nature experiences, demonstrating Smals’ responsibility for people, environment and the future.