GeoTOP: North Brabant and North & Central Limburg expansion

On 22 June 2020, the newest version of GeoTOP was expanded to include the model areas of North Brabant and North & Central Limburg.  The GeoTOP model extends up to 50 metres below Dutch Ordnance Datum (NAP). These model areas are sometimes as deep as 80 metres.  

The GeoTOP model provides information about the layer structure of the Dutch shallow subsurface up to a maximum of 50 metres below NAP, including the soil type (sand, gravel, clay or peat). This information is displayed in so-called ‘voxels’ (3-D pixels) measuring 100 x 100 x 0.5 metres. The model now covers a large portion of the Netherlands. The newest additions, North Brabant and North & Central Limburg, have been included since 22 June 2020.

National coverage

In the meantime, the Geological Survey of the Netherlands, part of TNO, has begun maintenance on GeoTOP’s two oldest model areas: Zeeland and Goeree-Overflakkee. Maintenance and new construction take about two to three years per model area. It will likely take until 2022 before these renewed model areas become available.

Subsequently, decisions about which area will be worked on next will be made in consultation with the ministry and all stakeholders (provinces, regional water authorities and municipalities). This includes maintenance to existing model areas on the one hand, and the addition of the eastern Netherlands, Drenthe, Flevoland and South Limburg on the other hand. The model will be gradually expanded until it covers the entire country.

Going deeper

You can find the Brabant and Limburg Story Map (Dutch only) here. The GeoTOP model, including the Brabant and Limburg shallow subsurface, can be viewed at the Geological Survey of the Nethlerlands’ DINOloket. You can navigate through the subsurface of Brabant, Limburg and other parts of the Netherlands, drill synthetic boreholes, make vertical cross-sections and map images, and experience variations in the composition of the subsurface. We welcome your feedback about DINOloket. Please use the feedback button on the site to do so.

Since 1 January 2020, GeoTOP has been included as a model in the Dutch Key Register of the Subsurface (BRO [link is Dutch only]). The Geological Survey of the Netherlands is involved in the realisation of the BRO, and also manages registrations.

For questions about GeoTOP, please get in touch using this contact form.