Harry - Environmental Law Enforcement Officer
“I was an international driver and then a planner in the transport sector. I often worked seven days a week. Actually, I wanted something different. Something that would give me more time for my private life. I had never considered working for the government, but I was approached by someone I know from my village. Would I be interested in becoming an enforcement officer for the water board?
‘No two days are the same’
Delving into the Environment Act
I had no experience, but I took the plunge anyway, thinking, "Everything can be learned." And luckily so, because I was given a great opportunity here. I first shadowed experienced enforcement officers and immersed myself in the Environment Act. Soon I was able to visit agricultural businesses myself. I used to work on the land myself. I have an affinity with the sector and speak the same language.”
‘I took the plunge, because after all, everything can be learned.’
No two days are the same, which is what I really like about my job. In the morning, for example, I do a number of farm inspections. Are the feed and manure storage facilities in order and is the water drainage working properly? In the afternoon, I work in the office on advice or answer questions. If there are complaints about smelly water or dead fish in the ditch, I go and take a look at the location. I basically have my own little shop and keep it running.
Police officer and psychologist
Not all farmers are happy to see me coming. Sometimes you are seen as a kind of police officer. I don't mind that. People often change their minds after a conversation. Ultimately, we usually want the same thing: for things on the farm to be properly organized and comply with the law. I rarely put on my police hat. I prefer to consult and think along with people about solutions. Recently, for example, some milk leaked into a ditch at a cattle farmer's farm. After I visited, he solved the problem neatly.
Sometimes you're like a psychologist. Once people get to know you a little, they tell you their whole life story. I enjoy that contact with people. As an enforcement officer, you mainly need a dose of common sense. And the willingness to learn. I'm taking a course in Environmental Law Enforcement. I'm over fifty, but I'm still developing myself. And my family is also very happy with the 36-hour working week."
Will you choose water work too?
We work together to achieve the right water balance. But we believe that a good work-life balance is just as important!Withus, you can combine meaningful work with job satisfaction and good employment conditions.
