The Asten Aa in Ommel

Between 1960 and 1970, the river Aa was canalized over almost its entire length of 50 kilometers, except for the part in this nature reserve. The river meanders through this area for a length of 2 kilometers.   The brook, which is heavily polluted with agricultural waste water, overflows on an irregular basis, creating a rough terrain with plenty of overgrowth. The forest is rich in plants such as cleavers, stinging nettles and Queen Anne’s lace.   The area is freely accessible and a there is a 5 kilometer long hiking route through the area, starting at the Busserdijk in Asten-Ommel. The area becomes nearly inaccessible during the wet season.