The Veenkoloniën can be described as a formal peat area, mainly in agricultural use. Some peat has remained but by oxidation of peat the surface level drops irregularly, making the conditions for farmers extra difficult. The challenge in the Veenkoloniën is the availability of water during dry periods and the influence of farming on the water quality. Also the biodiversity in the region is at risk.
The of this pilot is to use a more future-proof approach in the area, whereby sustainable farming, a more sustainable use of existing resources and the stimulation of biodiversity form the basis for a transition towards climate adaptive and future-resilient landscape in the former peat district of the Veenkoloniën.
The focus will be on sustainable, innovative and robust water systems. We will work with field labs to monitor the effectiveness of measures to make the region climate resilient. The monitoring system called “Bedrijfsbodemwaterplan” (Farm-Soil-Water-Blueprint) will be used by farmers and soil coaches to determine the measures most needed. It can also be used as a governance system. Stakeholder involvement is very important in this pilot. With the contribution of “Innovatie Veenkoloniën” we have an opportunity to create collaboration with land owners, research institutes, students and agribusiness.
| Water board Hunze en Aa | Image  |
