Helicopter Research to Map Groundwater in Northern Netherlands Begins August 1
From August 1 to February, helicopters will scan the subsurface in three provinces to support safer, smarter groundwater extraction and conservation.
Starting August 1, 2025, a helicopter will fly over parts of Groningen, Drenthe, and Friesland to carry out extensive subsurface research. This initiative is part of the national FRESHEM-NL project (FREsh Salt groundwater distribution by Helicopter Electro-Magnetic survey), which aims to map the distribution of fresh and salty groundwater and identify clay layers that protect vital groundwater reserves.
Suspended beneath the helicopter is a special measuring instrument that uses electromagnetic techniques to collect data. The aircraft will fly at approximately 80 metres altitude and move back and forth in straight lines at speeds between 60 and 80 kilometres per hour. Flights will take place during the day, from August 2025 through February 2026, depending on weather conditions.
Responsible and Safe Implementation
The measurements are carefully planned to ensure the safety of people, animals, and nature. For example, flights will not take place during the breeding season, and strict guidelines apply when flying near nature reserves. While a general flight schedule is available for each region, daily and weekly plans are updated frequently based on weather.
Broad Collaboration for Better Groundwater Management
FRESHEM-NL is a collaborative national effort involving seven provinces, seven water boards, five drinking water companies, and two research institutions. In the Groningen-Drenthe region, the provinces of Groningen and Drenthe, the Hunze en Aa's and Noorderzijlvest water boards, and Waterbedrijf Groningen are among the key partners.
The data gathered will be made publicly available and will support more sustainable groundwater management. This includes determining where groundwater may be safely extracted and where protective clay layers are located.
Public Information and Webinar Access
To explain the project and its importance, a webinar was hosted on June 30, 2025, by the Province of Groningen in collaboration with regional partners. Experts from TNO/Deltares gave an overview of how the technology works and answered questions from the public.
Visit the FRESHEM-NL website for detailed flight schedules, updates, and frequently asked questions
This high-tech research marks a significant step in understanding and protecting one of the region's most vital resources: groundwater.