Netherlands activates heat plan and aids young trees amid severe heatwave

A new heatwave in the Netherlands has prompted the re‑activation of the National Heat Plan for the provinces of North Brabant, Limburg, Gelderland and Overijssel, with temperatures forecast to reach up to 35 °C. Local authorities in the city of Nieuwegein have responded to the drought‑induced stress on vegetation by deploying water‑truck units and testing sustainable watering methods. The municipality is installing wooden watering borders made from previously felled trees to deliver water directly to the roots of newly planted, vulnerable trees, while older trees rely on deeper roots. Additionally, leaf mulch collected in the autumn is being spread around tree trunks and planting beds to retain soil moisture and return nutrients to the ground. If the trial proves successful, the approaches could be expanded across other parts of the city. These measures aim to protect young trees and green spaces during the extreme heat and prolonged dry conditions.