Harnessing Water for Economic Growth

The Netherlands and the United States share close economic and commercial ties. We are the third largest investor in the United States, while U.S. companies are the number one foreign direct investors into the Netherlands. Because of the close economic bonds between our two countries, we work closely with our U.S. allies to secure the long-term stability and growth of many of America’s core economic centers through effective water management.

From California to New York to the Gulf Coast, the Dutch are helping “climate proof” vulnerable American regions and use water as a tool for economic growth. That means finding proactive solutions to protect against water when it threatens our economic interests and incorporate water management into our long-term economic plans for agriculture, urban development and trade.

• California’s Bay Delta, one of the most important and productive agricultural regions in the world, faces flooding threats that could cause billions of dollars of economic loss. Dutch and California leaders are investigating new systems to modify and strengthen existing levees and build other protective systems that ensure Central California continues to thrive.
• Mississippi suffered damage as great as Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina, though in different forms and with different long-term impacts. The Dutch are helping the state of Mississippi develop a comprehensive, integrated water plan to rebuild natural defenses and restore the state’s tourism, shipping and marine-driven coastal economy. 
• As part of the 400-year bond between New York City (formerly New Amsterdam) and the Netherlands, Dutch officials and companies are helping New York City and the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey redesign Brooklyn’s waterfront, protect New York’s ports from water threats, and construct massive storm surge barriers in the Verrazano Narrows. America’s largest city and most important economic center will depend on smart water management in the coming years to continue to grow successfully.