Waterwolf

Waterwolf, or Water-wolf is a Dutch word that comes from the Netherlands, which refers to the tendency of lakes in low lying peaty land, sometimes previously worn-down by men digging peat for fuel, to enlarge or expand by flooding, thus eroding the lake shores, and potentially causing harm to infrastructure, or death.

The traits of a wolf most commonly given to lakes include "something to be feared", "quick and relentless", "an enemy of man".

Peat is organic matter sconsisting of 10% carbon and 90% water, usually found in colder climates where the plant growth and decay are slow.

The first great step to reclaiming land taken by the waterwolf was made with the creation of windmills that could pump water out of the surrounding area, allowing for the creation of polders, or areas inhabited below sea level with an artificially managed water table.

[4] Modern flood control in the Netherlands consists of maintaining polders and levees, and is highlighted by the world's largest dam project: The Delta Works.