Dr. Frans Vera
Biologist and Conservation Specialist, Pioneer in rewilding in the Netherlands
Frans Vera is a Dutch biologist and conservationist known for the “wood-pasture hypothesis,” which challenges traditional views of European primeval landscapes. His influential work at Oostvaardersplassen and key publications shaped rewilding strategies and conservation practices. Frans Vera has also led the restoration of rivers and floodplains through the Stork Plan, reintroducing natural dynamics to restore biodiversity and enhance ecological resilience in Dutch river landscapes.
