The Vloeiweiden of Pelterheggen (De Plateaux, NL) are an example of so-called industrial irrigation. Like the Grote Watering in nearby Lommel (BE), they are irrigated with nutrient- and lime-rich water from the Kempen Canal (Meuse-Scheldt) and date back to the mid-19th century. They were initiated by the entrepreneur and politician Wijnand Nicolaas Clermont from Maastricht, who sought to boost hay production in a remote corner of the municipality of Bergeijk (NL). These Vloeweiden (“flood meadows”) were established on barren heathland, and numerous structures such as dykes, weirs and inlets were required to ensure that irrigation can still be effectively managed today and that the excess water can drain away. The water leaves behind a thin layer of nutrient-rich silt or loam. In addition, the irrigation had, and continues to have, further benefits. For instance, it keeps the turf frost-free and helps control unwanted plants and animals.
Read more and discover:
Book volume (in German): Traditionelle Bewässerung – ein Kulturerbe Europas, Band 2, Regional Documentation
Website Landgoed Het Lankheet hetlankheet.nl/landgoed/
https://www.natuurmonumenten.nl/natuurgebieden/de-plateaux/pelterheggen-vloeiweiden-van-de-plateaux
Pelterheggen, vloeiweiden van De Plateaux: © Pelterheggen