Future of stream valleys
Northwest Drenthe has beautiful landscapes. From the Fochteloërveen to the Onlanden, you can see raised bogs, stream valleys, and marshlands. Water plays an important role. To ensure that everything works properly, restoration measures are being taken and stream valleys are being redesigned.
How do we do that?
There will be more space for water in the stream valleys. The water system will be slowed down so that water has more time to seep into the ground and flows more slowly. Where possible, small waterways will be made shallower and narrower. We are looking into whether higher groundwater levels are possible. In this way, we are ensuring that Groningen remains dry and that more water is available in the Kop van Drenthe.
Eelder and Peizerdiep
The area-based approach focuses on restoring the stream valleys of the Eelder and Peizerdiep. Streams in the Peizer and Eelderdiep system flow from the Drents Plateau to the north. Important questions include: how can we slow down water runoff, retain water in this area for longer, and enhance biodiversity?
Redesign of stream valley and optimization of De Onlanden
The redevelopment of the stream valley is linked to the optimization of De Onlanden. Here, water storage capacity is being expanded in response to climate change. In October 2021, it was agreed in the Onlanden administrative consultation that this expansion of water storage capacity will be accompanied by measures in the upstream catchment area.
Sufficient water for agriculture, nature, recreation, and living
If water can be retained longer in the upstream stream valleys, there will be less pressure on the natural values in De Onlanden. With the combined approach in and around the Eelder and Peizerdiep and the optimization of De Onlanden, we are working together to contribute to a robust and climate-proof water system and the availability of sufficient water for agriculture, nature, recreation, and housing.
