Starting from mid-October, a special helicopter can be seen daily in West Brabant. With a huge hoop beneath it, the helicopter measures the Brabant subsoil up to 300 meters deep. We expect the helicopter to also fly in the Land van Altena starting in November.
What is the goal?
With the measurements, we gain more insight into the clay layers in the soil. We also know where fresh, brackish, and salt groundwater is located. This knowledge is used to protect our drinking water sources and to better prevent salinization and limit drying in nature areas.
Saskia Boelema, deputy for Water & Soil: “Water and soil are the basis for everything that lives in Brabant. With this research, we are literally looking underground to be better prepared for the future. For example, we learn even better where and how deep our drinking water is and how we can protect it. The results help us make nature and agriculture stronger against drought and salinization and ensure that sufficient clean water is available in the future.”
How does it work?
At approximately 80 meters high, the helicopter flies in straight lines over the land. A large hoop-shaped sensor hangs 35 meters below the helicopter. This sensor emits weak electromagnetic signals, similar to those of a mobile phone. The measurements create a 3D model of the subsoil, showing where fresh and salt groundwater is and where clay layers are located. The measurements are safe for humans, animals, and nature. All flights are conducted with the necessary permits and according to the law. The results of the measurements will be available by the end of 2026.
Where and when?
The first flight is scheduled over the municipalities of Woensdrecht and Bergen op Zoom to map the Brabantse Wal in detail. Until the end of this year, the helicopter will fly over various parts of Brabant.
Under good conditions, usually 2 flights per day take place. In mist, rain, or strong winds, the schedule may change. The flight schedule will be announced at least one day in advance via www.freshem.nl. (refers to another website) You can also find more information on that website. If you have questions, please contact Erik Heskes via freshem@brabant.nl.
Does it cause disturbance?
To minimize disturbance for humans and animals, the helicopter does not fly over built-up areas or directly above homes and businesses. The helicopter also avoids electricity masts, high-voltage cables, wind turbines, and railways for safety and to prevent signal disruption. The research is conducted outside the breeding season. Despite these precautions, temporary noise disturbance cannot be completely ruled out. We advise keeping animals that may be anxious, such as horses, indoors on flying days.
About FRESHEM
FRESHEM stands for FREsh Salt groundwater distribution by Helicopter ElectroMagnetic survey. The project is a collaboration between the Delta Program Fresh Water, 7 provinces, 7 water boards, 5 drinking water companies, and the research institutes Deltares and TNO. From Brabant, the province of North Brabant, the Brabantse Delta water board, and the drinking water companies Evides and Brabant Water are participating.
