Water withdrawal is prohibited in Potsdam-Mittelmark until September!

Water withdrawal is prohibited in Potsdam-Mittelmark until September!

The exceptional drought is making itself felt in Brandenburg. On July 1, 2025, the Potsdam-Mittelmark district issued a general decree prohibiting the withdrawal of water from rivers, lakes, canals and ponds. This ban will apply until September 30, 2025 and is in response to worrying water levels that have fallen sharply after spring 2023 was the driest on record. No matter how ergonomic the ban may be, it is urgently needed to stabilize the water balance in the region, as [rbb24](https://www.rbb24.de/panorama/teil/2025/07/brandenburg-potsdam-mittelmark-wasser- Sprengen-see-fluss-ban.html) reports.

The exceptional temperatures and persistent drought since February 2025 are the worst since 1881. The German Weather Service (DWD) has found that only twice since records were recorded between 1881 and today has less precipitation fallen than in spring 2023, namely in 1893 and 2011. This means that not only water supplies are at stake, but also biological diversity and the quality of groundwater. The aim of the ordinance is to counteract the lower water levels in rivers.

Irrigation rules

The new measures bring with them clear regulations: irrigation of green and garden areas from wells and cisterns is prohibited during the day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. However, the few exceptions are encouraging, as watering small garden areas with a watering can remains permitted. Watering trees and bushes on public areas with a vacuum truck is still permitted. Agricultural businesses have the opportunity to apply for exemptions in order to secure their income. This regulation is intended to help avert the reduced water levels in rivers and the threat to the water balance, as highlighted on the district website.

The trend towards water scarcity has many causes. The Umweltbundesamt cites a variety of contributing factors. These include climatic conditions, water quality problems and also the influence of mining and increasing water withdrawals for agriculture. Urban areas are very important because they have high water requirements.

Ways to cope with drought

The challenges associated with this water scarcity are complex and require sustainable solutions. The WADKlim project offers approaches to promote more efficient water management and calls for strengthening cooperation between the different user groups. Political decision-makers are encouraged to integrate these solution strategies into their decision-making processes. The common goal is to ensure water supply for all user groups and to minimize conflicts during use.

The effects of the current drought give food for thought. However, by looking at nature-friendly water management, Brandenburg could learn how to deal with these challenges while protecting valuable natural resources. As a result, it will be interesting to see how the situation develops in the coming weeks.