Numerous elected officials in the show's aisles: those from municipalities affected by flood risks are keen to find concrete solutions to protect their populations. In particular, they meet with companies specializing in home protection. Numerous stands show how to protect your home against rising water levels. Various types of flood barrier are on show, including a novelty: a light, malleable inflatable barrier that can be used with a bicycle pump.Loïc De Raeve, technical officer in the Gerpinnes municipality's design office, took a look at the various solutions on display: "Technology is making progress! In terms of pumps and water dams, there are really products that can be adapted to different types of situation and are easy to use. What's also interesting is to exchange ideas with teams from other municipalities: you don't feel so alone, and that makes it possible to envisage solutions that we hadn't necessarily thought of".

Ludwig Bert is a road maintenance technician in Ecaussinnes. What catches his eye are the innovations proposed to improve soil permeability: "We mainly have macadamized squares in the commune. Here, we're showcasing other materials, slabs and fascines that could help us minimize mudflows. I'm particularly keen on recycled materials, which require little maintenance", he explains.

The exhibition is organized by the commune of Seneffe, in partnership with SPW Agriculture and the 14 river contracts in Wallonia. Gaëlle Denhaerynck is in charge of flooding for the Sambre River Contract: "We've created interactive 3D maps to understand and model flood risks. We suggest possible solutions, and ways of preventing water from rising too high. We can test the effect of building a dam, for example. This simulation exercise is a very interesting way of showing where runoff flows. On runoff routes, we work with farmers on revegetation and land-use planning", she explains.

Flood control became a priority in Belgium after the floods of 2021: "This episode left a deep impression on people's consciousness. River contracts are mediators that bring the various players to the table to envisage global solutions with local applications", explains Augustin de Longueville, flood project manager for the Senne River Contract.

Source: www.rtbf.be/