Sävjaån catchment is a lowland mixed land use catchment characteristic of central Sweden. Headwaters in the catchment drain a mixture of forest and agricultural land. Streams draining agricultural land are general deepened and straightened to promote drainage. Localized spring floods are common and summer droughts are increasing. Eutrophication is an issue throughout the catchment.

The Pesnica river catchment is characterized by intensive agricultural production, mainly cattle/pig breeding and arable farming. In spring and summer, the catchment is exposed to drought, while in autumn and winter to severe precipitation events. Soils with a high proportion of clay, which are subject to rapid surface runoff, erosion and nutrient leaching, are further contributing to unfavourable conditions. Market requirements regarding quality and reliability of production are leading towards changes in the tillage technology, but also towards searching for reliable water sources and economically efficient, yet sustainable measures for the longest possible retention of water in the soil.