Water quality in Voorschoten is moderate to poor

In recent years, the municipality has commissioned studies on the quality of the water in Voorschoten. At nearly all monitoring sites, oxygen levels in the water are too low. Another notable finding is that E. coli levels exceed the standard in large parts of Voorschoten. E. coli bacteria occur naturally in the intestines of animals and humans and therefore indicate an excess of sewage in surface water.

At 45 locations in Voorschoten, wastewater and stormwater are discharged into surface water (sewer overflows). This occurs during heavy rain, but also at other times when the sewer system cannot handle the volume of water. This prevents the manholes from overflowing and sewage from spilling onto the streets. Unfortunately, however, it does cause pollution in ditches and canals.

Improving water quality takes time and money

The municipality is committed to improving water quality. After all, clean water creates a pleasant environment for flora, fauna, residents, and visitors to Voorschoten: there is little to no odor and no fish mortality. And in areas where regulations allow, people can swim safely. But this cannot be achieved overnight. It requires close cooperation with stakeholders such as the Water Board, the drinking water utility, farms, and residents, as well as substantial investments in—among other things—an improved sewer system.

For now, the recommendation is: do not swim in open water

Swimming in open water poses too many health risks, especially for young children and the elderly. Furthermore, the Inland Waterways Police Regulations (BPR) prohibit it in certain areas, such as near bridges or at locations where boats can dock.

Councilwoman Erika Spil: “It’s a shame that people in Voorschoten can’t swim in open water. We’re working hard to improve water quality in the coming years. We’re developing a plan that not only addresses today’s problems but also anticipates the challenges of the future.”