Dutch Water Boards Flag Pesticide Pollution and Extraction Breaches

Waterschap Rivierenland reported that in 2025 the greenhouse horticulture area of the Bommelerwaard had the highest number of pesticide‑related norm violations in surface water, surpassing tree cultivation for the first time. The board, which runs an agricultural monitoring network, noted that a joint "tuinbouwriool" installed in 2021 connects 50 greenhouse companies to prevent chemicals from reaching ditches, and it urged the sector to intensify cooperation. A new risk‑driven approach will trigger extra sampling and enforcement when significant leaks are detected, with results displayed on a public dashboard.

Meanwhile, Waterschap De Dommel recorded sixteen breaches of a drought‑related water‑extraction ban, including illegal groundwater irrigation and unauthorized surface‑water pumping. The violations were documented in reports filed with the Dutch Food and Consumer Authority and could lead to reduced agricultural subsidy eligibility. Another regional board, Aa en Maas, is expanding its surface‑water extraction restrictions to further protect streams and canals.