Droge Voeten (Dry Feet) 2050

The risk of flooding and water shortages in the northern provinces is increasing as the climate changes more rapidly. The 'Droge Voeten (Dry Feet) 2050' project studied which measures we need to take to limit flooding until 2050. The provincial executives and water authorities are jointly responsible for these measures.

Even better protection against water

We are taking action to protect ourselves against the more extreme  weather and other conditions that are expected. We have started to reinforce the catchwater of our water authority. Here's how:

  • We are improving the control of pumping stations.
  • We construct balancing lakes in existing or new nature areas.
  • We are modifying the Schaphalsterzijl pumping station.
  • We are raising flood embankments and reinforce dykes.
  • In times of high water and heavy rainfall, we put pumping stations in locations that do not cause any inconvenience to the villages here.

Combination of a balancing lake and nature

One of the measures concerns the interaction between a balancing lake and the ecological main structure. Areas have already been designated for the construction of part of the 'ecological main structure'. In the lowest-lying areas, such as the Westerkwartier, interaction with a balancing lake will be created. This means that we will design an area specifically to store excess water.

Measures for Dry Feet 2050

The effects of climate change are increasing in the area managed by Noorderzijlvest Water Authority. This increases the likelihood of extreme wet and dry periods. Sea levels are also rising and precipitation events with higher, more extreme intensity are becoming more frequent. In addition, subsidence as a result of gas extraction has a negative effect on the safety of the water system. 

If for you are unable to read the document "Measures for Dry Feet 2050" for any reason or if you have any questions about the document, please send an email to Info@noorderzijlvest.nl. 

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