Boating ban on Kleine Nete expanded due to drought, but kayaking still possible

A temporary boating ban on the Kleine Nete river in Belgium is expanding due to the ongoing drought, but confusion persists as some sections remain open for kayaks and canoes. The extended ban, effective Saturday, covers stretches from the Retie watermill to the Desselsebaan crossing, from Breevensdijk in Kasterlee to De Ark van Noë, and from the Spaanse Hof weir in Herentals to the weir in Grobbendonk.

“

At such news, we notice that people sometimes cancel unnecessarily or overwhelm us with questions.

The Flemish Environment Agency cited the risk of damage to riverbanks, sediment disturbance, and harm to aquatic plants due to low water levels. A minimum water depth of 50 cm is required to prevent such damage. However, this has led to unnecessary cancellations and a surge of inquiries at local rental businesses.

“

With low water levels, the chance of damage to banks, stirring up the bottom, and harm to water and bank plants is high. A minimum water depth of 50 cm is needed to avoid damage.

Nick Smet, manager at De Ark van Noë in Lichtaart, noted that while the usual route to Kasterlee is now prohibited, they are rerouting customers towards Herentals, which is still permitted. He expressed concern that media reports often create the impression that all kayaking is banned, leading to lost business. "When such news comes out, people sometimes cancel unnecessarily or overwhelm us with questions," Smet said.

“

Due to the news reports, people often think kayaking is no longer possible at all.

Similarly, Jana Janssens, manager at Netherust in Kasterlee, confirmed that their routes are unaffected by the specific ban areas. While their longest four-hour tour has been canceled, shorter round trips are still available. Both businesses rely heavily on water sports tourism, especially during the summer holiday period, and are hoping for rain to ease the drought conditions and prevent a complete ban.

“

It would be a shame if there were a complete ban, especially since this is our busiest period.