New Water Act: Too few or too many regulations? - New water law divides farmers and environmentalists in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

A new Water Resources Act in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has sparked controversy among farmers, environmentalists, and policymakers. The state government plans to raise drinking water extraction fees, nearly doubling revenue for waterway conservation. But the proposed law also introduces stricter rules for agriculture, leaving many groups divided over its impact.

The state government wants to increase the drinking water extraction fee from 10 to 20 cents per cubic meter. This change aims to nearly double annual revenue for protecting rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Private households will face a small rise in water bills, with the average family paying roughly €15 more per year.

Farmers will now pay for irrigation water under the new law. Surface water will cost 2 cents per cubic meter, while groundwater will be priced at 6 cents. These fees have drawn strong opposition from agricultural groups, who argue the costs will hurt their operations.

The law also imposes tougher sustainability rules on farming. A mandatory five-meter buffer zone will apply along all water bodies, banning plowing, fertilising, and pesticide use. These restrictions go beyond current federal and EU standards, leading to further backlash from farmers.

Environmental organisations have pushed for even wider protections. NABU and Grüne Liga demand at least 10-meter buffer zones, while BUND insists on 12 meters with permanent vegetation. BUND also opposes exemptions for small water bodies and field ponds, arguing they should remain fully protected under the law.

The proposed law will raise funds for water conservation while tightening farming restrictions near waterways. Farmers face higher costs and stricter rules, while environmental groups push for even broader protections. The final version of the act will determine how these competing demands are balanced.