Saltwater monitoring network
We are setting up a monitoring network to determine the salinity in and around the lake. This will enable us, together with our regional partners, to learn more about the water system in the area.
Monitoring
We want to be able to accurately determine the salt content in and around Lauwersmeer. That is why we have started constructing a chloride monitoring network: Saltwater Monitoring Network for the Lauwersmeer Area. In 2025 and 2026, various measuring points will be installed in the lake and in nature and agricultural areas. This will enable the salinity to be measured daily at different locations and depths. In this way, together with our regional partners, we will learn more about how fresh and salt water interact in the area.
What exactly are we measuring?
Although the project is known as a 'saltwater monitoring network', the sensors actually measure the electrical conductivity (EC) of the water. In general, the higher the EC, the more ions there are, and therefore the saltier the water.
Acquiring knowledge
Data from the monitoring network is public. We are developing a user-friendly online dashboard. With the measuring points, the water board hopes to answer questions such as: what is the fresh-salt distribution in the lake throughout the year? Where is the boundary between fresh and salt water and how can we control it? And what effect does the salt content have on water quality?
Monitoring network assists in further research
The measurement results assist our research. Together with other regional partners, we are exploring how we can achieve a more natural transition between fresh and salt water. This exploration will continue until 2028. The goal is to allow salt water to enter the lake in a controlled manner, thereby improving the ecological water quality.