What is a dike?

A dike (also spelled dyke) is a human-made structure, typically an earth embankment or wall, built to contain or hold back water. Dikes are commonly constructed along rivers, canals, and coastlines to protect low-lying areas from flooding.

Key features of dikes:

• Purpose: Primarily designed for flood control and land reclamation.
• Materials: Can be built from various materials including earth, clay, sand, stone, concrete, and asphalt.
• Construction: Dike construction involves compacting layers of materials to create a strong and impermeable barrier.
• Design: The design of a dike considers factors like the expected water level, soil conditions, and potential wave action.
• Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensure the dike's structural integrity and effectiveness. This includes repairing erosion, removing vegetation, and reinforcing weak spots.

In some regions, particularly in the Netherlands, dikes are a vital part of the landscape and infrastructure, playing a critical role in land management and protection. Failures in dike systems can have devastating consequences, leading to widespread flooding and significant economic damage.