Oudewaters

Oudewaters is a natural area located in the Netherlands, specifically in the Friesland province. The designation "Oudewaters" roughly translates to "old waters" in English, which refers to the area's historical and complex wetland characteristics. Oudewaters is situated near the town of Grouw and forms part of the nationally protected area of Het Lauwersmeerpolders.

The Oudewaters area is characterized by shallow bodies of water, puddles, and pools, as well as surrounding wetlands. The varied landscape includes different levels of moisture, support a diverse range of plant and animal species. The Oudewaters is of particular importance due to the presence of rare or endangered species of flora and fauna. Natural succession, where vegetation migrates from one surrounding environment to become dominant, is an active force within this region.

Key factors affecting the Oudewaters' ecosystem encompass water flow variations and volume, surface water issues, temperature, terrain conditions, and air pollution. Rugby and hiking routes are present within this area. Oudewaters falls under the management of the Natuurmonumenten organization, in collaboration with the province of Friesland and local municipalities.