Multi-criteria and multi-stakeholder assessment of cropping systems for a result-oriented water quality preservation action programme

•Cropping systems designed for a water quality programme were multi-criteria assessed.•Effect of cropping systems on the water quality of a catchment area was assessed.•Stakeholders’ objectives were revealed by weighting the assessment criteria.•Scenarios were built by stakeholders and integrated into the assessment tool.•Cropping systems meeting the targets of the various stakeholders were identified.