Maaike Bergsma earned a degree in Forest and Nature Management, followed by a Master’s degree in Leisure, Tourism and Environment at Wageningen University, focusing on the recreational use of natural areas and the conflicting interests involved.

She began her career as a project researcher for Kenniscentrum Recreatie (Recreation Expertise Centre) in The Hague and as a policy officer for preservation and recreation for the Municipality of Leek. Besides lecturing in International Tourism Management at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (the faculty of which she joined in 2008), Ms Bergsma also works as a freelance consultant for governments and non-profit organisations, solving issues related to tourism and recreation. Having joined our research group in 2011, Bergsma focuses on policy issues related to the Wadden Coast area and assesses the needs and requirements of businesses, nature preservation societies and various governments.