Early Water Restrictions Hit Veluwe, Noord-Brabant Amidst Dry Spell
CITY — May 16, 2024 — Water boards in the Veluwe region and Noord-Brabant are imposing water restrictions early this year because of unusually dry conditions. thes measures prohibit the removal of water from ditches and canals primarily for agriculture use. March’s record dryness combined with high evaporation rates have lead to diminishing groundwater reserves across the region. Experts are available to speak to address concerns.
Early Water Restrictions hit Veluwe and Noord-Brabant Amidst Dry Spell
Facing unusually dry conditions early in the year, water boards in the Veluwe region and parts of Noord-Brabant have implemented surface water withdrawal prohibitions. These restrictions prevent the removal of water from ditches, canals, and waterways for irrigation purposes.
Did you know? Surface water is often used for irrigation, industrial processes, and even recreational activities. Restrictions can impact various sectors.
Unprecedented Early Measures
The early implementation of these measures is noteworthy. That is relatively early in the year,
according to a spokesperson for the Vallei and Veluwe Water Board. Historically, such prohibitions were typically enacted later in the summer months.In contrast, the past two years saw sufficient rainfall, negating the need for any restrictions in most regions.
Contributing Factors: Dry March and evaporation
The current situation is attributed to several factors. March was record-dry, setting the stage for potential drought conditions. Although April saw near-average rainfall, dry conditions have since returned, with no immediate rain in the forecast.Compounding the issue is critically important water evaporation, further depleting available resources.
Diminishing Groundwater Reserves
The lack of precipitation has impacted groundwater levels, which, despite starting at a relatively high level, have since declined. Rian Govers,acting dyke of the brabantse Delta Water Board,notes:
We started this dry period with a relatively high groundwater level,but that lead has already been collapsed again through the past dry months. That makes us extra challenges.
Rian Govers, acting dyke of the Brabantse delta Water Board
Govers had already imposed restrictions on surface water use for irrigation in parts of the region on April 3, which have now been extended to cover a larger area of Brabant.
Impact on Farmers and Sports Clubs
The surface water withdrawal prohibition, effective from midnight, covers almost the entire Veluwe region. This measure will affect various stakeholders, including sports clubs that rely on surface water to irrigate their fields.
Pro tip: Consider choice water sources like rainwater harvesting to reduce reliance on surface water during dry periods.
Farmers are expected to be considerably impacted, although some suggest the situation is manageable.
Groundwater as an Alternative
Despite the restrictions, alternative water sources are available. Jaap van Wenum of the branch organization Arable farming, stated:
It is also not new that we get this over us.Groundwater is a good alternative and much more essential for the farmer.
Jaap van Wenum of the branch organization Arable farming
wim Brouwer of agricultural and horticultural organization (LTO), Gelderse Vallei department, echoed this sentiment:
The ditches are dry, there is no water from it. We are dependent on sources and there are quite a bit of it here. But it should not stay dry for too long. If no drop has fallen in fourteen days, we will be worried here.
Wim Brouwer of agricultural and horticultural organization (LTO), Gelderse vallei department
