Getting started with a climate-proof Kop van Drenthe

In the Kop van Drenthe region—roughly from Fochteloërveen to De Onlanden—various partners are joining forces to make the rural area climate-resilient, with a focus on water. Due to climate change, we are increasingly facing heavy, prolonged rainfall and periods of drought in the region. While this can cause disruption, it also presents opportunities for agriculture and nature conservation, among other things. That is why we are developing a new vision for the region’s planning.

A shared vision for the area

Noorderzijlvest Water Authority, the Province of Drenthe, Waterbedrijf Groningen, council , council , and agricultural and nature conservation organizations want to establish a single, shared vision for the area, which stretches from the Fochteloërveen to De Onlanden. Residents are also being involved in the plan. The plan aims to ensure that sufficient water is available during dry periods, that flooding and potential water damage from heavy rainfall are minimized as much as possible, and that water quality in the area is maintained. Through this, we are working on the region’s climate resilience, as well as on goals for water quality and biodiversity in the area. Furthermore, it will contribute to future-proof agriculture.

Research on the water system

The partners are now beginning a study of the themes of water, agriculture, and landscape in this area.

  • To this end, we are investigating how the entire water system currently functions and what role soil structure plays. We are also assessing the agricultural system and examining the system of landscape values and ecology.
  • The central question guiding all aspects of the research is: where is drought or, conversely, excess water a problem, and where is there an opportunity to retain water?
  • The studies highlight the areas that need to be addressed in the coming years and what the priorities are.
  • Following the initial studies, which are expected to be completed autumn draft form this autumn , the parties will involve residents in the “Kop van Drenthe Initiative.”
  • The ultimate goal is to develop a shared vision for the area in which the use and design of the landscape are attractive, recognisable, and resilient for decades to come.
  • More information about Northwest Drenthe:www.provincie.drenthe.nl/noordwest