Operational aspects of subsurface drainage in the IJsselmeerpolders in the Netherlands

For the installation of a subsurface-drainage a profound preparation and thorough planning of the works are necessary. Besides that there should be a good knowledge of the properties of the soil (texture, hydraulic conductivity, depth of the various layers). Finally a good estimate of the costs is desirable. The operational aspects of subsurface drainage in the IJsselmeerpolders in the Netherlands are analyzed with the help of a operations diagram. Attention is paid to the background of drainage design for various soil types and drainage conditions. A specification of drainage costs is given.An explannation is given about the soils in the polders Eastern and Southern Flevoland their physical condition and their behaviour. The installation of a subsurface-drainage on a parcel in the polder Flevoland is described.