Precipitation shortage is an obstacle for irrigation in Zeeland

The current precipitation deficit has never been greater at this time of year. This is apparent from today's drought monitor of the National Water Distribution Coordination Committee (LCW). In the meantime, new irrigation bans apply.

It has been mostly dry since mid-March. As a result, the groundwater levels are low, especially on the high sandy soils. In addition, a further decline in the water supply via the rivers is expected in the coming weeks. LCW therefore speaks of an impending water shortage.

Low to very low
The effects of the drought are mainly noticeable in agriculture in the east and south of the Netherlands. The groundwater levels there are low to very low for the time of year. It is not possible to supply river water to these areas, which means that local waterways run dry. Little to no precipitation is also expected in the next 14 days.

It has been dry for a long time for the crops on the land. Where sufficient irrigation is possible, this does not present any problems. Where this is not possible, crop growth will come under pressure. This is especially the case in Zeeland and South Limburg. The vigor of crops also decreases on the higher sandy and valley soils.

Do not irrigate in Zeeland
A general ban on abstraction from surface water applies in a large part of the eastern and southern Netherlands. This is not yet the case in Zeeland, but according to the water permit, water may no longer be extracted from ditches for irrigation. After 2 months without significant precipitation, the water levels in Zeeland have dropped to or below the summer level almost everywhere. The stock of groundwater is also limited, so according to the Scheldestromen water board, it must be used sparingly.

Jeanette Pennings

Jeannet has her roots in the flower bulb sector and she grew up on an agricultural company in the northern part of North Holland. As a generalist she reports for Boerenbusiness across all sectors. She is also exploring the possibilities of sponsored advertising.

j.pennings@boerenbusiness. Nl

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