Dutch water boards grant flower growers exemption, warn of blue‑green algae

The Hollandse Delta water board has issued a temporary permit allowing flower growers in the Kilhaven and Wittebrug irrigation districts to extract water for misting on days when temperatures reach at least 25 °C between 11:00 and 16:00. The exemption is intended to protect blooms from scorching and is limited to the small volumes needed for misting, which the board says “will not cause irreversible ecological damage in the surrounding area.” The permits will be reviewed after one month.

At the same time, the Scheldestromen water board warned that ongoing drought and high temperatures could lead to a rise in blue‑green algae (cyanobacteria) in surface waters across Zeeland. The algae can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals, causing skin irritation, gastrointestinal symptoms, or more serious illness if ingested. The board advises the public to avoid contact with suspect water, keep dogs out of affected areas, and report dead wildlife.

Both measures are part of a broader response to the continued dry spell, with water quality expected to improve naturally after rainfall and cooler weather.