Westland faces water crisis as authorities ban extraction; farmers offer to pay for treated sewage water

Greenhouse farmers in the Westland region of the Netherlands are facing an "unprecedented and severe" crisis after water authorities banned all water extraction from local canals and ditches starting Wednesday. The prohibition, which extends to the region's vital horticultural sector, threatens to cause millions of euros in losses and potential bankruptcies, especially for smaller growers of produce like radishes, lettuce, and zucchini.

The Hoogheemraadschap van Delfland, the water authority, acknowledged the "unique and heavy measure" but cited "exceptionally" dry conditions and a lack of imminent rainfall. The available water is primarily needed to prevent dike breaches and irreversible damage to nature, leaving no room for exceptions, the authority stated.

Glastuinbouw West- en Oostland board chairman Jacco Vooijs expressed understanding for the need to conserve water for safety but stressed the urgent need for an alternative. "We need water. Now," he said. The farmers' proposed solution involves further purifying a portion of the treated sewage water currently discharged into the North Sea. They are willing to cover the costs of this extra purification, aiming to supply 500 cubic meters per hour to alleviate the immediate threat to growers.

However, the proposal has not yet led to an agreement, as the water authority wishes to conduct further studies. "They tell us they first want to investigate. When the calf is drowned, they'll fix the well. We don't have time," Vooijs lamented, adding that earlier warnings, similar to those issued by a neighboring water authority, would have allowed for proactive discussions and measures.

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We hebben water nodig. Nu.