Reit-WM in Aachen: Controversy Over Water Usage Amidst Drought

What Happened

The World Equestrian Games in Aachen have begun, featuring dressage competitions. Simultaneously, a significant amount of water is being drawn from the Wildbach stream, described as a small waterway, to irrigate the cross-country course, which is approximately 40 times the size of a football field. This extensive watering effort is creating a lush green area for the event, contrasting sharply with the surrounding drought-stricken landscape where fields are drying up and trees are shedding leaves.

The event organizer, Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein (ALRV), is using a large pump to extract an estimated 3,000 cubic meters of water daily. This water is transported via pipes to the cross-country course to maintain the grass. The local authorities have issued a permit for this water extraction, classifying it as a "permissible use" that will not significantly or sustainably impair the natural environment. This permit was granted despite earlier restrictions on water usage from several streams due to critically low levels, affecting agriculture and private use.

Key Facts

• The World Equestrian Games are taking place in Aachen.
• The cross-country course, used for two half-days, requires extensive watering.
• Organizers are drawing water from the Wildbach stream using a large pump.
• An estimated 3,000 cubic meters of water can be drawn per day.
• The city of Aachen has issued a water extraction permit for the event.
• The permit is considered a "permissible use" despite drought conditions and other restrictions.
• Katharina Hemmer achieved a personal best score of 79.224 percent in the dressage event.
• The German dressage team is currently in a strong position for gold.

Background

The region has experienced a severe drought, with very little rainfall for months. July recorded only 5 percent of the usual precipitation. This lack of rain has led to dry conditions across the area, impacting crops and water levels in various streams. In response to the drought, authorities had previously imposed restrictions on water extraction for agriculture and private use from several water bodies.

Why It Matters

The decision to allow significant water withdrawal for the equestrian event, while other users face restrictions, has sparked controversy. The contrast between the artificially green event grounds and the parched surrounding landscape highlights the challenges of resource management during extreme weather events and raises questions about the fairness and sustainability of such practices.