The increase in the frequency of extreme weather events may generate fierce competition for water resources. For instance, there is a mounting risk of conflicts pertaining to agricultural and domestic use of water, but also environmental demands. The EU-funded OPTAIN project will identify efficient techniques for water and nutrient retention and reuse in small agricultural catchments across continental, Pannonian and boreal regions of Europe. Engaging local stakeholders, the project will select natural/small water retention measures (NSWRMs) at farm and catchment levels and improve their spatial allocation and combination based on environmental and sustainability measures. NSWRMs could improve the management of head watersheds and contribute to a more flexible agricultural management and society.
