On-farm water resources management: an approach to optimize regional hydrology

In the Mariapeel nature reserve the groundwater level has fallen dramatically. In the surrounding agricultural area, the groundwater level is low, which results in a loss of groundwater resources from the nature reserve. This affects biodiversity in a negative way. Optimizing regional hydrological management, with an emphasis on raising groundwater levels, can improve the coexistence of agriculture and nature. This is ail important issue in recent Dutch water management. Within the nature reserve, several measures have been taken to stop the desiccation. The surface water levels have been raised, a finer pattern of compartments has been introduced and several ditches have been dammed. However, this approach is not enough to ensure that groundwater levels remain high in summer. Additionally, measures ill the surrounding area must be taken. In this study, we examined the ways by which the 17 farmers in the surrounding area can contribute to a better hydrological situation in Mariapeel, by taking on-farm measures. In ail intensive process the possibilities and their consequences for hydrology and farm management were worked out. Then, in a hydrological study, the regional hydrological effects of various approaches to water management were compared. This study proves that water management at the farm level call improve regional hydrology. Active participation of farmers is necessary to find effective measures. It is desirable to give farmers responsibility for managing water resources at the local scale. Close cooperation between water boards and local farmers is necessary. Regional agreements are appropriate policy instruments to set down responsibilities of farmers and authorities.