Drought in the Netherlands: how do we deal with it?

In 2018 and into 2019, the effects of drought are well felt in many areas - including Limburg. Drought is a serious threat to farmers and nature. That is why the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality took a number of measures in early July to combat the effects of drought. The aim of the LNV is to be well prepared in the short and long term for extreme weather situations for agriculture and nature, such as drought or wetness.

Maaike van Moolhuijsen and Kees van Drunen, experts from the LNV, talk about the consequences of drought for Dutch nature and farmers. Maaike: "Drought and Dutch nature do not go well together. Our country is set up to drain water as quickly as possible, while our nature is very focused on water." Kees adds: "For farmers and gardeners, drought leads to loss of income due to crop failures and extra expenses for, for example, irrigation." The Ministry of LNV makes an effort to minimize the consequences of drought for farmers. An example of a measure is that 15 million euros has been made available for the Broad Weather Insurance for farmers. They can insure themselves against loss of income due to extreme weather conditions.

Innovative way of sprinkling

It is expected that once every 15 years a huge drought peak will occur. One solution to save crops somewhat is to irrigate them. Maaike: "With irrigation, we use precious drinking water, surface water or groundwater. The process of desiccation continues this way. Therefore, holding water and preventing evaporation as much as possible is the best solution."

Gathering information

The Ministry of LNV is in contact with representatives of agricultural and nature organizations to map the consequences of drought in the Netherlands. Through monitoring and research, the natural damage caused by drought is being visualized. Based on this, appropriate measures are taken against drought. Kees: "The RVO is publishing a 'water demand viewer' this summer. This can be used to estimate more accurately how much water crops in a particular area need. Water boards use that information to make decisions about possible irrigation restrictions." Maaike: "After the summer, we can analyze the information and draw conclusions. That will be in cooperation with all levels of government, state, provinces, municipalities and water boards."

Read the entire interview at Rijksoverheid.nl.