The current (numerical) water movement models used at Rijkswaterstaat are limited in speed and flexibility. For example, a hydrodynamic 2D model for the North Sea now has at least five hours of computing time per run. An ML model can do this in less than a minute, allowing more scenarios to be calculated.
Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) are already proven technologies in industries such as medical, meteorology, and process automation. The challenge is not in the technology itself, but in its application within the main water system. This requires a strong boost: large-scale integration of models and data, cooperation between parties and adaptation of work processes in the sector.
The four-year AI Impulse Programme for water movement models, which started in November 2025, focuses on the development of datasets and advanced machine learning (ML) models for the RWS Main Water System (Rivers, IJsselmeer Region, Coast) that can be used, among other things, for the operationally rapid calculation of (weather) scenarios.
The programme is supported by Rijkswaterstaat in collaboration with KNMI, Deltares and Digishape, among others. Other governments, companies, knowledge institutions, startups and scaleups are welcome to join.
More information
Read more in this interview on RWS Zakelijk of 15 October 2025: David van den Burg (DigiShape programme manager) and Iris Reuselaars (director of Shipping Traffic and Water Management at Rijkswaterstaat) talk about more agile water management with AI.
