Project
Opportunities for controlled drainage in Flanders (OP-PEIL)
The OP-PEIL research project has succeeded in increasing the applicability of controlled drainage (CD) in Flemish agricultural soils. OP-PEIL provided concrete figures on the effectiveness and profitability of sub-irrigation and CD as a technique for controlling salinization. Models were also used to make an initial estimate of how much extra water can infiltrate into the groundwater in the various applications of CD, and to what extent this also results in higher yields.
Controlled drainage does not drain water continuously, as is the case with conventional drainage, but allows water to be drained when it is really needed, for example during the sowing period. In other words, CD is a more water-efficient and smarter system for maintaining the right amounts of fresh water under agricultural plots. This form of drainage can be both socially and agriculturally profitable, and is also effective in the short term.
Research approach
In addition to applying and implementing existing knowledge, OP-PEIL has built up the necessary expertise to fill three knowledge gaps: the potential of sub-irrigation (supplying water underground via the drainage system), the influence of controlled drainage (CD) on salinization in the polder context, and the possibilities for collective water management on a landscape scale. Specifically, the focus has been on (i) providing decision support guidelines and practical recommendations to companies on the plot-specific application of CD, (ii) encouraging and guiding target group companies in the conversion from traditional drainage to CD, with an emphasis on installing a feasible and financially viable CD system, (iii) maximizing the dissemination of knowledge about CD to farmers and governments, both by the project team and by the farmers of the target group companies, through demonstration activities and workshops.
Relevance/Valorisation
The results of OP-PEIL have led to greater applicability of controlled drainage in Flanders. The focus on context-specific needs in particular has proven to be useful in this regard. The research was also taken into account by policymakers when drafting new regulations. In response, the project drew up a report identifying specific problems in the field. The project resulted in increased knowledge among farmers and government agencies and an exploration of the potential of collective water level management in practice.