What makes our area unique
Every day, we work on water in a large part of Groningen, Central Drenthe, and a small part of Friesland. Every day, we work on water in Groningen, Central Drenthe, and Friesland. Water level managers, maintenance workers, rat control officers, enforcement officers, flood defense specialists, technicians, and policy officers are out and about every day. This results in beautiful images of our unique area. In addition to photos, our events and rich cultural history make our area unique. We are happy to give you a glimpse into the unique moments of 2024.
Unique landscapes and animals
We live in a beautiful area where there is plenty to do. The most beautiful views can be photographed, and every type of weather offers a different perspective on a place. How unique it is to walk for miles along our beautiful dikes. From Delfzijl to Eemshaven, there are 11.7 kilometers of dike. This dike not only protects us from high water, but is also ideal for recreation. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the dike. This is because dogs often dig into the dike, compromising its safety.
Another unique experience is mudflat walking. Together with schoolchildren, we explore the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site. It's a unique way for young and old to learn more about the flow of our water.
In addition, there is always something beautiful to see. At sunrise, on sunny days, at night, and on cloudy days.
Our area is home to the most beautiful animals. Below is a selection of photos taken by our employees. Sometimes you are surprised by a fox, and other times a horse comes to help you measure the land. Birds also thrive here. The bird in the bottom left photo built its nest on a sewage treatment plant, and the other birds live in the area.
Water is essential for a well-functioning ecosystem. That is why we work every day to ensure clean and sufficient water.
Events in 2024
The water board organizes an annual event to involve residents in its work. Because we do a lot, but that is not always immediately visible. Everyone is probably familiar with the locks at Lauwersoog. But do you know what they look like on the inside? With this event, we hope to tell residents and other interested parties more about our work. We do this in various ways. See below for a look back at 2024.
World Fish Migration Day / Open Day in Lauwersoog
On May 25, 2024, the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority organized an open day for residents and other interested parties, young and old alike. During this day, visitors were given a unique glimpse into the R.J. Cleveringsluizen, had their photo taken with their favorite fish, and boarded a boat excursion.
The day was dedicated to fish migration in our streams, rivers, and canals. May 25 was also World Fish Migration Day. During this day, events were organized around the world to draw attention to the importance of free-flowing rivers for migratory fish.
You can look back on the day through the photos below:
Construction Day 2024
Saturday, June 8, 2024, was Construction Day. As part of this open day, visitors had the opportunity to visit our projects Nieuwe Waterwerken Zoutkamp and the Lauwersmeerdijk - Vierhuizergat dyke reinforcement. Visitors were given a unique glimpse into the construction pit of the new Hunsingo pumping station. The dike reinforcement program included an excursion to the tidal area at Marnewaard.
Want to read more about these projects?
Open Monument Day 2024
On September 14, 2024, we opened the doors of three monumental buildings to the public. Our iconic Waterwolf pumping station in Lauwerszijl has stood on the Reitdiep for over a hundred years as a beautiful piece of industrial heritage. The Waterwolf is still in operation and plays an important key role in draining excess water to the Wadden Sea.
That same weekend, we opened the doors of the Rioolgemaal pumping station on Damsterdiep in Groningen. It's a building you might quickly drive or cycle past, but it's where important work is carried out to ensure clean and healthy water.
Finally, visitors could also visit the Peizer- en Eeldermaden pumping station that same weekend. Although the pumping station no longer plays an important role in our current water system, it is still a beautiful sight.
Let's Go 2024
On November 10, 2024, the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority, in collaboration with the Groningen Water Company, organized an artistic journey of discovery through the world of purified water. During this journey, visitors to the Forum in Groningen experienced the Value of Water.
We would like to look back with you via the video below:
Cultural heritage in 2024
We are proud of the landscape in our working area and the role that water plays in all its forms: it is not just about the water itself, but also bridges, quays, pumping stations, and historic hydraulic engineering structures. We ensure that our cultural-historical monuments are kept visible and alive. We also encourage people to experience water by facilitating recreation, maintaining waterways, and enhancing the spatial quality with our projects. A good example is the Aduarderzijlen project.
The historic Aduaderzijlen lock complex, built in 1867, is located in one of the most beautiful spots in the Groningen countryside. It is a remarkable landmark at a crossroads of waterways... and a popular place for cycling, canoeing, or boating while enjoying the panoramic views. In 2022, the national monument was in need of a major refurbishment. The Noorderzijlvest Water Authority began restoring the two locks and associated bridges. First, construction pits were dug, after which the water was pumped out of the locks. The joints were chiseled out and the masonry and natural stone were repaired. Everything was restored in an authentic manner, using traditional craftsmanship. By mid-2023, the traditional craftsmanship was complete and the locks shone in renewed glory.
In 2024, the surrounding area was enhanced in terms of landscape and recreation. Among other things, new paths, jetties, and a parking lot were added.
In the following video, we take you on a tour of the results:
This video was commissioned by the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority and made possible by: Tennet, National Program Groningen. In collaboration with: Province of Groningen, Municipality of Westerkwartier, Farmers, citizens, and rural residents of Aduarderzijl and surrounding areas.
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What does our working area look like: Our working area