Water shortage in the Hochtaunuskreis: withdrawal is now prohibited!

Water shortage in the Hochtaunuskreis: withdrawal is now prohibited!

In the Hochtaunus district, the ongoing drought has now led to drastic measures: a general decree prohibits the withdrawal of water from streams, ponds and lakes. This regulation applies until November 30, 2025 or until revoked, as the Rhein Main Verlag reported. Only the watering of grazing livestock is exempt from this ban. Owners of adjacent properties also have to forego water extraction, which further exacerbates the situation.

First district councilor and head of the environmental department Thorsten Schorr makes it clear that the region is suffering from the lack of rainfall. “The water levels in our waters are alarmingly low, which can have a negative impact on our nature,” says Schorr. Thomas Golla, department head of the Lower Water Authority, emphasizes that no significant rainfall is expected in the coming days. Local rain showers would do little to improve water levels, so the priority order of water withdrawal for horticulture and agriculture was determined.

Water scarcity as a serious problem

The situation is serious: Due to the prolonged heat, streams in some areas have already dried up completely. This not only endangers the habitats of aquatic animals and plants, but also reduces the self-cleaning ability of water bodies. Golla warns urgently: “Drawing water from rivers and streams must absolutely be avoided.” According to his assessment, the conditions for permit-free water withdrawal for owner and resident use are currently not met.

The water problem is not just localized, but goes deeper: A comprehensive analysis through the Federal Environment Agency has shown that water shortages in Germany have many causes - from climatic conditions and water quality problems to mining and the increasing demand for water in metropolitan regions. The need to develop sustainable solutions is undisputed.

Sustainable water use in focus

To minimize future conflicts over water resources, experts recommend measures such as improving water retention and promoting water efficiency. The reuse of water in urban areas is also seen as an important option, for example for irrigation of green areas. These approaches could ensure ethical and equitable access to water resources.

The current situation in the Hochtaunuskreis is a pressing reminder of how important it is to use our water resources sustainably. The district appeals to citizens to use water carefully and sparingly. Informed citizens are the key to finding solutions together in these challenging times.

The current water levels can be viewed at any time on the website of the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology. Water authorities continually keep the public informed of developments.