Ditch Maintenance to Ensure Water Flow
Today marks the start of the second round of mowing for the approximately 6,000 km of ditches in our management area. Mowing reeds and aquatic plants is necessary to ensure the free flow of water. During the work, HHNK and the contractors adhere to the code of conduct, which includes agreements and rules for maintenance. This allows us to take protected animal and plant species into account. Where there is enough space, we leave as many plants as possible standing, as this benefits the flora, fauna, and water quality. The second mowing cycle will run through October 31, 2026.
Executive Director Jos Beemsterboer, portfolio holder for Integrated Water Management in Rural Areas: “Maintaining ditches is necessary to ensure the flow of water. This year, for the first time, we are waiting until the end of October to mow. Mowing has a significant impact on the habitats of fish, birds, amphibians, and insects. We’ve noticed that due to the hot summer, water temperatures are staying high for longer. By mowing later, we’re minimizing the risk of fish mortality as much as possible.”
Sufficient and healthy surface water
HHNK mows the ditches and canals to ensure sufficient and healthy surface water, not for recreational purposes. Aquatic plants are important for water quality. They stabilize the soil, absorb light and nutrients, and provide shelter for animals. The greater the variety of aquatic plants, the better the water quality. However, too many aquatic plants can obstruct water flow. Because Hollands Noorderkwartier is a large area, it is difficult to say in advance when mowing will take place at any given location. A tip for homeowners with a small pump in the ditch is to remove it from the water or mark it with a stake so the operator can take it into account. For more information about the mowing operations, visitwww.hhnk.nl/maaien.
The fall inspection begins on October 19, 2026
Owners of properties along waterways are responsible for maintaining the ditch banks and, in many cases, the ditch itself. In addition, trees and plants that grow above the water’s surface must be pruned to at least 3 metre above the waterline. The ditch must be in good condition no later than the third Monday in October. Starting then, the ditch inspectors will begin checking the ditches. For more information, see the Fall Inspection page.
