Evergem Urges North Sea Port to Allow Farmers Access to Port Water During Droughts

Evergem – The municipality of Evergem has formally requested that North Sea Port allow local farmers to draw water from the port during periods of prolonged drought. This initiative aligns with the recently approved rainwater and drought management plan. North Sea Port is set to review the proposal and engage in discussions with the local authorities.

Located in the Belgian province of
East Flanders, Evergem seeks to establish a sustainable solution for agriculture during dry spells by utilizing water from
North Sea Port. The request is part of Evergem’s broader water policy strategy, recently adopted to address challenges from climate-induced droughts. According to
VRT reports, the port operator will consider the municipality’s request and initiate a dialogue about the technical and logistical aspects.

The newly adopted rainwater and drought plan includes measures to collect and store rainwater during wetter periods, ensuring a backup supply for times of water scarcity. As a part of this strategy, Evergem plans to develop water collection basins at key infrastructure points.

“Farmers can then take water there when there is a ban on the waterways,”

stated Alderman for Water Policy, Lucas Van der Meersch (CD&V).

“We will have to consult with the VMM and the province of East Flanders for this.”

“It is important that such a catchment basin is fed by large watercourses in the area. Of course, we will take into account fertile agricultural land and ecologically valuable areas.”

Cooperation with North Sea Port is a key component of the municipality’s plan.

“There is water left in the port due to paving, which is stored in water basins. That is why we have asked the port to open certain water basins to farmers.”

How has Belgium historically managed water scarcity and drought?

For the last four consecutive years,
Belgium has experienced recurring meteorological droughts, marked by rainfall levels well below the seasonal average. These prolonged dry spells have significantly impacted agriculture, reducing soil moisture, lowering river levels, and depleting groundwater reserves. Flanders, in particular, has borne the brunt of these shortages, with farmers often forced to source water from distant locations. This inter-regional demand has led to tensions and debates over water allocation, further emphasizing the urgency of sustainable water policies.