In the groundwater protection area Valtherbos-Noordbargeres near Emmen, a new area process will soon start. The initiative comes from the area itself. Farmers in the area have jointly decided to take up the challenge and start an exploration. The province of Drenthe, together with the farmers, LTO Noord, WMD Drinkwater, and area partners, is committed to drafting an area plan. With this plan, they aim to protect the drinking water supply in the area and provide prospects for sustainable agriculture.
Vulnerable Extraction
Valtherbos-Noordbargeres is one of the most vulnerable drinking water extractions in Drenthe. The effects of society, industry, and agriculture are measurable in the groundwater, even within the extraction itself. Since alternatives for this source are lacking, protecting this extraction is of great importance.
Improving Groundwater Quality and Future-Proof Agriculture
The agricultural sector in Valtherbos-Noordbargeres has decades of experience with projects and collaborations around water quality. The exploration builds on that commitment: a bottom-up approach, supported by the area. It is clear that additional measures require clear agreements, extra compensation, and support. The approach in the groundwater protection area is part of the elaboration of the Program for Future-Oriented Rural Areas Drenthe. This can make resources available for the implementation of agreements.
The area process also aligns with the Agricultural Course of the province. Initiatives that come from farmers in the area will be further supported by the province where possible. Central to this is cooperation in area processes: entrepreneurs and social partners jointly map out the bottlenecks and ambitions, supported by the province with research and process guidance.
Urgency and Willingness to Collaborate High
With this joint approach, Drenthe is focusing on a robust drinking water supply and future-proof agriculture in Valtherbos-Noordbargeres in an area where urgency and willingness will lead to the drafting of an area plan.
