Well owners beware: water sampling day in Nordhausen on July 14th!

Well owners beware: water sampling day in Nordhausen on July 14th!

In Nordhausen, the yellow VSR Water Protection Mobile Laboratory is not only an eye-catching eye-catcher, but also an important tool for all well owners in the region. Loud NNZ online In recent years, over 320 citizens have set out to bring water samples from their garden fountains and find out about the quality of their water. On Monday, July 14, 2025, well owners will again have the opportunity to hand in their water samples on the town hall square from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Frank Sombrowski and Heinz-Theo van Wickeren are available in the mobile laboratory to analyze the water samples. This study aims to reveal the various pollution levels in groundwater and to promote more sustainable use of water. Because many well reports show that water is often contaminated with nitrates, pesticides and even pathogens. A basic examination of nitrate, acid and salt levels is offered for a fee of twelve euros. After the analysis, the well owners receive their results by mail.

Promote water conservation

VSR water protection has been committed to the quality of our groundwater for over 40 years. In Thuringia, a nitrate map shows that pollution is worrying in many districts. Higher nitrate pollution is often caused by intensive agriculture, particularly the use of fertilizers, such as VSR water protection emphasized. Between 2019 and 2024, the data for these analyzes was collected and the results make it clear: agricultural fertilizers are the main cause of the high nitrate levels found in many areas.

But what about agriculture itself? In Thuringia, around 11% of arable land is cultivated with corn. The problem is that harvested fields without vegetation increase nitrate leaching. In order to counteract this situation, the VSR calls for the soil to be covered with plants, for example catch crops, after the maize harvest. A step in the right direction to reduce pollution on groundwater.

The importance of sustainable agriculture

An important aspect in the debate about nitrate pollution is the role of sustainable agriculture. According to a report by the Federal Environment Ministry, nitrate values ​​above 50 mg/l were found at 25.6 percent of the measuring points in the EU nitrate measuring network between 2020 and 2022. This can be harmful, especially to infants, as nitrate is converted into nitrite in the body, which is potentially dangerous. The majority of nitrogen in water comes from agriculture and measures are urgently needed to improve this situation agriculture.de.

In order to be able to supply future generations with high-quality drinking water, a rethink in agriculture is required. The improvements in nitrate pollution are already noticeable, but further measures are necessary. These include the cultivation of catch crops, plowless tillage and a targeted reduction in fertilizer use in polluted areas. The work of VSR water protection should not be underestimated - it is a step in the right direction to protect our valuable water resources.

Citizens in Nordhausen are invited to take action: Recommendations for correct sampling are available - among other things, it is recommended to use mineral water bottles that are filled to the brim. Milan Toups is also available every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to answer questions about the measurements. Let's ensure a clean future together!