Droge Voeten (Dry feet) 2050

How can we combat flooding by 2050? We are considering this together with other authorities. De Onlanden is part of our approach.

Measures

The risk of flooding and water shortages in the northern provinces is increasing as the climate changes more rapidly. With the Droge Voeten (Dry Feet) 2050 project, provinces and water authorities work together on solutions for extreme weather caused by climate change.

We are taking various measures:

  • Pumping stations are modified and controlled better.
  • Additional balancing lakes will be created
  • Flood embankments and dykes are raised and reinforced.

De Onlanden is not the only balancing lake. Balancing lakes have also been created in the Zuidelijk Westerkwartier Area Development Zuidelijk Westerkwartier . These will help to keep our feet dry in the future.

Climate change will lead to more frequent wet periods, but also to more drought. We are trying to prepare for this too. In the Kop van Drenthe, we are studying how we can retain water for longer to prevent drought. 

The Onlanden as a climate buffer

De Onlanden is a great example of a natural climate buffer. Natural climate buffers are areas that help to mitigate the effects of climate change. 

Water collection

The area serves a purpose for nature and recreation, but is also designed as a balancing lake. De Onlanden helps to prevent flooding. When there is heavy rainfall, De Onlanden collects extra water. This keeps the city of Groningen and surrounding villages dry. Climate change means that it rains more often and more heavily. Without a retention area where the water can be stored temporarily before being discharged into the sea, flooding would occur more quickly.

Space for nature

The area is large and low-lying. Water flows here naturally, and large amounts of water can be stored temporarily. De Onlanden is also a beautiful nature reserve with space for animals and plants. Balancing lakes and nature reserves can coexist and adapt to the changing climate. It creates more wetland nature, for example. This makes the area climate-resilient.

Watch the video below, 'Expedition Wadden Coast - natural climate buffers', to find out what a climate buffer is and how it works in De Onlanden.