Tap water is more valuable on Terschelling  
And that’s why this summer marks the start of the campaign The Value of Wadden Water

The drinking water on Terschelling comes from two sources. Part of it comes from the island itself: from the freshwater lens beneath the dunes. Another part comes through a pipeline from the mainland. The water beneath the island is slowly replenished by rainwater, and the supply from the mainland is not unlimited either. Especially in summer, when the island is busy, the water supply comes under pressure.

Will you help us maintain a sufficient supply by using water sparingly? There are several small things you can do that make a big difference:

• Use the small flush button on the toilet
• Take short showers — this quickly saves dozens of litres
• Don’t let the tap run unnecessarily, for example while brushing your teeth
• Reuse your towels and only do laundry when the basket is full

The water on Terschelling: from beneath the dunes and from the mainland

Beneath the dunes of Terschelling lies a freshwater lens: rainwater that has slowly filtered through the sand. This lens refills gradually, while water consumption rises sharply in summer.

Terschelling uses more drinking water than the freshwater lens can supply. That’s why a large part of the drinking water also comes through a pipeline from the mainland — but that supply is limited as well.

Do it for the animals and plants too

Not only for us humans, but also for nature it is essential that the freshwater supply on Terschelling remains at a healthy level. If the groundwater level becomes too low, plant roots can no longer reach it. As a result, some plant species disappear, and both water and food sources for animals diminish.

Why it matters extra in summer

In summer, many more people visit Terschelling. Naturally, this increases the demand for drinking water, while the freshwater lens is replenished less due to drought.

Every drop used consciously helps, and that’s why Terschelling — just like the other Wadden Islands — is launching a campaign to save drinking water. For the island, for nature, and for future visitors.