Peizerdiep also enhances water safety in De Onlanden
September 8, 2025
Between Sterrebos and De Onlanden nature reserve, the Peizerdiep is undergoing a major refurbishment. Commissioned by the Province of Drenthe, Prolander, Noorderzijlvest Water Authority, site managers, and the municipality of Noordenveld are working together on a future-proof stream valley that will enhance nature, water quality, and climate resilience. Johan de Boer (Prolander) and Gerard Zeemans (Noorderzijlvest Water Authority) discussed the changes at the kitchen table of a concerned resident in the area.
Natural connection between stream valleys
The Peizerdiep flows from the Drents Plateau towards the low moorland area of Groningen and empties into De Onlanden. Thanks to stream valley development, the Peizerdiep is becoming an ecological link between nature reserves such as the Fochteloërveen and De Onlanden. Where possible, the stream is being restored to its natural course, with space for fish migration, wetland nature, and biodiversity. "We are working on a robust system in which water is given space, the landscape can develop, and there is room for local interests," says senior project leader Johan de Boer of Prolander.
Water retention, storage, and delayed drainage
An important goal of the project is to improve water management. Gerard Zeemans, senior project manager at the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority: "By redesigning the stream valley, the area will be better able to cope with extreme precipitation in winter and drought in summer. We want to use measures to slow down the drainage of water and retain it for longer. This prevents flooding and helps to preserve and improve the peat soil in the area. The water eventually flows gradually into De Onlanden. We store it there temporarily, after which it is discharged into the sea."
From pumping to natural water level management
"Currently, the area is drained by the Weehorst pumping station," says Gerard, "but that is about to change. Soon, we will allow the water level to rise naturally. We will give the water room to find its own way, as it did in the past. In addition, during high water, the parallel Oude Diep will flow together with the Peizerdiep. We are adjusting the profile and creating nature-friendly banks so that the water can flow through more easily. In doing so, we are taking into account the interests of the surrounding residents. We want them to keep their feet dry and ensure that the drainage around their homes is in order."
Nature as an ally
The stream valley development not only contributes to water safety, but also to the enhancement of nature and water quality. Raising the groundwater level and the inflow of seepage water creates a rich habitat for plants and animals. "There will be more wet nature," explains De Boer. "Such as moist hay meadows and wet grasslands with flowers and herbs."
Collaboration and vision for the future
The project is a collaboration between government agencies, water boards, and land management organizations. The final design for the development of the Weehorst and Stenhorsten areas will be ready this fall. This first phase is expected to be completed in 2027. "We are doing this for everyone: farmers, residents, and nature. It is an integrated project that contributes to a livable future," says De Boer.
Want to know more? Peizerdiep | Northwest - province of Drenthe