Waterboards
Most of NWB's equity is owned by the waterboards (81%). Waterboards are responsible for the flood control, water quality, water quantity and treatment of urban wastewater. The first came into existence in the 13th century, this makes them the oldest form of government in the Netherlands.
The basin of a river or the lie of a dike sets the borders of the 27 water boards. Because of this the territory of a water board is not restricted by the boundaries of municipalities and provinces.
Waterboards are decentralised public authorities; their legal status is similar to that of municipalities. They levy their own taxes and can apply rules to several parties such as residents, property owners and landowners. The mandate of the waterboards in the government is laid down in the "Waterschapswet" (www.overheid.nl).
