The NWE area has a long history of intensive horti- and agriculture. Frequent plowing, monoculture and the use of chemical fertilizers have led to low soil organic matter levels (SOM) of 0-2%. Low SOM results in 2 challenges: 1) reduced soil sponge capacity, which limits the soil's ability to retain water, leading to drought stress for crops; and 2) poor water infiltration, increasing the risk of erosion and floods during heavy rainfall. With climate change intensifying droughts and rainfall extremes in the NWE area, these issues pose important threats to crop yields, food security and flood management. 

The HydroSoilWise project seeks to address these challenges by focusing on 3 main objectives: 1) enhancing soil sponge capacity and infiltration through SOM increase, 2) reducing erosion, and 3) improving water use efficiency (WUE) through smarter irrigation and water management practices. Achieving these goals will involve raising farmers' knowledge and encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices in agri- and horticulture. The project will develop an innovative, user-friendly toolbox for farmers that brings together various techniques that act on SOM, erosion reduction and WUE. We optimize these techniques in 4 drought-sensitive key crops in different soils and climate conditions in NWE (annual vegetables, potatoes, fruit and nursery trees), encompassing ± 550 000 ha in the participating countries. HydroSoilWise aims to implement solutions in about 3% of the target area, delivering tangible benefits for farmers such as more climate-resilient and sustainable crop production. Furthermore, the whole society will benefit from reduced flood risks and enhanced food security. 

Collaboration within NWE offers advantages by pooling dispersed resources and expertise, enabling a more comprehensive approach to optimal solutions. By making the toolbox available across borders through training programs and demonstrations, farmers can easily assess and adopt techniques, fostering the exchange of knowledge and widespread adoption of best practices.