The “function follows water level” principle is an answer to the fragmentation of the water system. The idea is to create larger areas with the same water level and an adapted land use. Water management is then more cost-efficient and subsidence in the peat areas may also be stemmed.

Vista examined concrete applications in three peat areas of the Groene Hart. The consequences for land reclamation and land use were clarified with 3D visualisations. The conclusion was that the size of the area and the choice of the water level are decisive. Criteria were formulated for this. It was further concluded that additional measures and tools are needed to stop the subsidence .