Stroomgebiedopgave

Stroomgebiedopgave is a Dutch term for the collectively defined set of measures and tasks that must be carried out within a river basin (stroomgebied) to manage water safety, quality, and ecological objectives. It functions as the basin-wide assignment that translates national and European water policy into concrete actions across an entire watershed.

Scope and content: The opgave covers flood risk management, water quantity and drought resilience, water quality and pollution control, and nature restoration and biodiversity targets within the basin. It integrates technical measures (dikes, flood defenses, water levels, stormwater systems), land-use planning, and ecosystem-recovery programs. The aim is to ensure safe flood protection, sufficient and clean water, and healthy ecosystems in a changing climate.

Governance and process: The responsibility for implementing the stroomgebiedopgave lies with the Dutch national authorities in coordination with regional water authorities (waterschappen) and other stakeholders. The opgave is reflected in basin-level plans and programs, such as the Stroomgebiedbeheerplan, and is reviewed and updated periodically in response to new data, policy changes, and cost considerations. The development typically involves hydrological modeling, risk assessment, and stakeholder consultation to determine preferred measures and investments.

Relation: The concept sits within the broader Dutch approach to integrated water resources management and aligns with the EU Water Framework Directive and the Delta Programme.

See also: Water Framework Directive, Delta Programme, Stroomgebiedbeheerplan (SGBP).