Dutch water boards impose extraction bans in Vecht and Twentekanalen regions

Facing severe drought, the Dutch water board WDODelta placed an on‑extraction ban on the Vecht and Twentekanalen catch‑areas, prohibiting water use from canals, ditches and streams for irrigation of grass, corn, sport fields and most crops. Only drinking water for livestock and fire‑fighting may be taken. The ban aims to protect drinking‑water supplies, dikes and ecological balance. Dike warden Hans Pereboom warned of the ban’s impact on farmers but said it is necessary to avoid permanent damage.

A similar restriction was announced by Waterschap Vechtstromen in the Overijssel area, also banning garden irrigation and surface‑water extraction, with exceptions for industrial processes and livestock drinking water. Local well driller Wilbert Siebring described the decision as difficult but unavoidable given the lack of water from major rivers.

After recent rainfall, the water board Hunze en Aa’s in Groningen reduced its pumping from the IJsselmeer to half capacity, noting that water levels have risen temporarily. Nevertheless, the board continues to monitor water use and requests users to report irrigation withdrawals to ensure sufficient supplies.