This platform is your entry point into the world of Natural Small Water Retention Measures (NSWRM). Whether you are a farmer, advisor, policymaker, student or researcher, this space offers knowledge, tools, and inspiration for more sustainable water and nutrient management in agriculture.
The OPTAIN project (Optimal strategies to retain and re-use water and nutrients in small agricultural catchments across Europe) promotes the use of NSWRM—nature-based solutions designed to slow, store and reuse water and nutrients in the landscape. By combining real-world case studies, scientific modelling, and stakeholder collaboration, OPTAIN aims to build capacity and support decision-making for more resilient rural water systems.
A dynamic Learning Environment
The OPTAIN Learning Environment is a dynamic and inclusive platform designed to make complex knowledge on NSWRM accessible and actionable. It brings together the project's key results—ranging from field experiences to advanced modelling tools—within a structure tailored to a variety of user needs and learning goals.
Explore by theme
To facilitate navigation and support targeted exploration, the platform includes a Knowledge Pathway Selector based on four major thematic challenges identified in the project. These thematic pathways help users focus on cross-cutting issues where NSWRM play a critical role.
These pathways reflect the real concerns and priorities of end-users and allow learners to access integrated content—educational modules, case studies, tools, and policy guidance—organised around these key issues.
What you will find in the OPTAIN Learning Environment
The OPTAIN Learning Environment brings together the project’s main results in a user-friendly platform designed to support learning, exploration and decision-making around Natural Small Water Retention Measures (NSWRM). It is structured around five main sections:
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Start
This is the homepage of the platform. It introduces the OPTAIN Learning Environment and allows users to begin their exploration by selecting a thematic pathway aligned with key environmental and agricultural challenges. -
Learn
A set of 11 structured learning modules offering core knowledge on NSWRM. This section covers essential concepts such as definition, classification, implementation, monitoring, and the broader environmental and socio-economic dimensions of these nature-based solutions. -
Explore
This part provides access to OPTAIN’s 14 Case Studies across Europe through an interactive map. Users can explore local challenges, applied NSWRM, and performance results. It also includes a searchable NSWRM Catalogue, offering detailed descriptions of measures, their benefits, and implementation guidance. - Go Further
A space for advanced users and experts. It provides access to modelling and simulation tools (e.g. SWAT+, Comola), optimisation results, policy scenarios, and governance analysis. This content supports in-depth evaluation and strategic planning related to NSWRM. -
Resources
A media and documentation hub that brings together videos, training materials, factsheets, project reports, and other outputs aimed at knowledge transfer and capacity-building.
