In recent years, we have become increasingly aware that the climate is changing, and what the consequences of this are for the Netherlands. Climate change poses various challenges, certainly where water is concerned. Sea level is likely to rise and more melt water and rainwater will enter our country.
We must reckon on periods of more frequent heavy rain, but also on times of persistent drought. Moreover, huge tracts of land have been developed over the last fifty years (including for homes, roads, offices and industrial estates), and this is also true of our area. So there are now more hardened surfaces than before. This means that rain is less able to seep into the soil and therefore runs off quickly. Which is why we must create space for water. In wet times, we are then able to store more water and limit flooding. And in dry periods, more water is available to combat drought damage.
At Velt & Vecht, we try to ensure that giving water space goes hand-in-hand with encouraging nature and improving the everyday environment. For example, by widening a stream in combination with the construction of nature-friendly banks, such as for the Aalder and Geeser streams. Or by allowing rivers and streams to meander more through the landscape. The countryside only improves if old bends (meanders) are restored to their former glory, like along the Vecht. And the construction of nature trails, cycle tracks and footpaths provides everyone with more to enjoy on or near the water.
