Scheldt walk: Oudenaarde to Zingem

Only three of us could come to the Belgian walk. The upside: everyone we met had time for every question.

We started along the Maarkebeek with the Maarkeerders, local people who look after their own stream, and their mayor. The coordinator of the Upper Scheldt basin explained why it matters: under European water rules, making this stream healthy again is a priority.

In Oudenaarde and Ename, two local guides showed us the old town. Until 1960 the river ran right through the historic centre. The town's tapestries show the river's fish and beavers.

Along the Zwalm we learned about the river contract: municipalities, farmers, residents and water managers commit to practical steps for the stream.

We ended at a local vineyard, welcomed by the mayor and deputy mayors of Kruisem, which includes Zingem. Leon Dhaene, secretary general of the International Scheldt Commission, came to talk with us, quite something for a group of three. Dorien closed the weekend with a song.