Give water space, check your ditch!

Starting Monday, October 19, inspectors from the Hollands Noorderkwartier Water Board (HHNK) will be checking during the fall inspection to ensure that the ditches in our area are properly maintained. Well-maintained ditches are essential for the proper inflow, outflow, and storage of water. Board member Jos Beemsterboer, who oversees the Integral Water Management in Rural Areas portfolio, said: “With well-maintained ditches, we can work together to prevent the risk of flooding and be better prepared for dry periods.”

Maintenance of Locks

Owners of a property that borders a ditch are usually responsible for maintaining that ditch. Sometimes there are different agreements regarding who is responsible for maintenance. At hhnk.nl/najaarsschouw, you’ll find a digital map (the “Wateren” register). It shows which ditches are present and what maintenance rules apply. You can also find information there about the obligations that apply to ditches along plots of land. In addition, HHNK itself removes aquatic plants from approximately 6,500 kilometre s of ditches.

What is being checked?

Among other things, the theater inspector checks whether: 

  • the ditch is free of trash; 
  • reeds and aquatic plants do not obstruct the inflow and outflow of water; 
  • the riverbanks and revetments are well maintained; 
  • trees and plants have been pruned so that at least 3 metre s are above the waterline; 
  • Structures, such as culverts, bridges, and retaining walls, are free of vegetation and in good condition. 

The owner of a structure is responsible for maintaining the ditch up to 3 metre s on both sides of the structure, even if it borders a public road. 

More space for plants and animals

Good water flow remains important, but various types of plants and animals are also receiving increasing attention. That is why HHNK has investigated how much vegetation can remain in place without impeding water flow. At many locations, more vegetation is now allowed to remain than before. The digital map on the “Fall Inspection” page shows which rules apply to a particular ditch.