Quantification of actual evaporation through different in-situ techniques for Dutch water management practices

Historically, the Netherlands has predominantly managed water surpluses, consequently numerical hydrological models are calibrated and validated under conditions ranging from average to wet. However, as prolonged drought periods become more frequent, there is a growing need for models to simulate dry conditions. One of the key processes in drought simulation is evaporation (E). This study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the quantification of actual evaporation (Eact) under dry circumstances in the Dutch agricultural sector and for water management practices. For this purpose, an extensive monitoring plan was implemented to estimate actual and potential evaporation (Epot) as well as soil moisture content, on an agricultural site in the Netherlands. A comparison between Epot and Eact during the drying and wetting phase is proposed to conduct an uncertainty analysis on various calculation and measurement methods. Furthermore, we will study the land- atmosphere interactions that influence Eact, and the effect of irrigation.