Anti-desiccation projects in the Netherlands, 2001
The fact that full hydrological recovery has only been achieved in a few desiccated areas does not mean that little has been happening in the area of anti-desiccation activities. The following figure shows the areas where anti-desiccation projects are in the preparatory stages, in progress or already completed.
Current situation relating to anti-desiccation projects
Provincial authorities have completed 9% of the anti-desiccation projects for nature areas. Projects are in progress in 12% of the area and projects are in the preparatory stages in 17% of the area. In total, therefore, provincial authorities have taken steps for 38% of the desiccated area. At present, only 3% of the areas desiccated in 1985 have fully recovered (see Recovery of desiccated areas, 2001).
Policy
The objective of anti-desiccation activities was to reduce the desiccated area by 25% in 2000 compared to 1985 (VROM, 1997; V&W, 1998). The aim is to reduce the desiccated area by 40% by 2010 (VROM, 1997).
References
- IPO (2002). Interprovinciale rapportage Milieu, Water, Landbouw en Natuur 2002. Association of Provincial Authorities, Lelystad. This report contains an extensive set of provincial data about the environment, water, nature and agriculture for the year 2001.
- V&W (1998). Fourth Water Management Policy Document. Ministry of Transport and Public Works, The Hague.
- VROM (1997). National Environmental Policy Plan 3. Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment, The Hague.
