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Water withdrawal is prohibited in Dresden from July: summer drought strikes!
From July 2025, Dresden will adopt a ban on taking water from rivers to safeguard the natural balance in view of the drought.
Water withdrawal is prohibited in Dresden from July: summer drought strikes!
From July onwards, there will be an important ban in Dresden for anyone who likes to take water from local water bodies. From Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the withdrawal of water from rivers and streams is prohibited throughout the city. This measure will remain in force until October 31, 2025. The reason for this ban is the lack of rainfall that has been ongoing since April, which has caused the levels of many bodies of water to fall to alarmingly low levels and even led to the planned drying out of some of the bodies of water. The head of the environmental agency, René Herold, reported on the high evaporation on hot summer days and the associated risks for the natural balance.
As the Neustadt-Ticker emphasizes, rivers and streams in the city area may no longer be tapped with pumps or hand vessels. Even if the groundwater levels are currently within a normal range and around 40 centimeters below the monthly average of the last 17 years, this measure is intended to protect the natural balance and avoid possible negative consequences.
No restrictions on groundwater
Fortunately, there is currently no need to restrict groundwater use. Current measurements show that groundwater levels cannot be compared with the critical values from 2019 and 2020. The Environment Agency states that groundwater levels are currently stable. Nevertheless, it is advised to be particularly careful and economical when using water, as the press portal of the city of Dresden points out.
To minimize water consumption, the Environment Agency recommends using rainwater wherever possible. Especially when watering, you should prefer early morning or late evening hours to avoid evaporation losses. This not only makes ecological sense, but can also help you keep your own water bill under control.
A look beyond the city limits
Dresden is not alone with this problem. Many other regions in Germany are also struggling with water shortages and have already imposed restrictions on water withdrawal. According to Geo, similar measures have been taken particularly in Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt and North Rhine-Westphalia. The risk of a drought period is growing and the Helmholtz Center's drought monitor shows increasing dryness, especially in eastern Germany.
Violations of the removal ban in Dresden can result in fines starting at 50 euros. This once again makes it clear how important it is to adhere to the new rules and to treat water resources respectfully. Something is happening, so to speak, and it is up to all of us to protect this valuable material well.