Heemraden
Heemraden were officials responsible for water management and land reclamation in the Netherlands. Their name derives from the Old Dutch words "heem" (home or territory) and "raden" (counselors or advisors). They were part of the Dutch water boards, or "waterschappen," which have a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The primary function of heemraden was to maintain dikes, canals, and pumping systems to protect low-lying land from flooding and to ensure the proper drainage of agricultural areas.
These officials were often landowners or prominent citizens within their jurisdiction who had a vested interest