STOWA is the Dutch Foundation for Applied Water Research. Rijkswaterstaat, provinces and water boards participate in STOWA.
The programme was developed based upon a demand-driven approach. Sixteen water boards were interviewed and several more were present during a one-day seminar in Driebergen in May 2007. Practical research questions were formulated starting from the four core activities of the water boards (flood defence, water quality, water management, waste water).
A phased implementation of the programme has been chosen. An indicative multi-annual budget has been set up. Perspectives and opportunities for cooperation with other climate-related research programmes have been identified. The introduction of inception phases for most research subjects enhances the flexibility of the program.
STOWA has started preparations for the first projects based on the Royal Haskoning report.