poldergebied
A poldergebied is land that has been reclaimed from a body of water and surrounded by dikes, designed to be kept dry through controlled drainage. In the Netherlands, poldergebieden are typically low-lying and may lie below sea level, requiring a system of dikes, pumps, and sluices to maintain water levels for agriculture, housing, and infrastructure.
Drainage and water management are central to polder areas. The water table is regulated by pumping stations,
The reclamation of land in the Netherlands occurred over several centuries and accelerated in the 20th century.
Governance of poldergebieden is typically organized through water boards (waterschappen), independent authorities responsible for flood defense,
Today, poldergebieden remain a cornerstone of Dutch land use, combining agriculture, settlement, and infrastructure. They face