lighthouse by IdzardCreations

The lighthouse pictured is Hellevoetsluis Lighthouse, located in the fortified town of Hellevoetsluis, South Holland, the Netherlands. It is the oldest original and still functioning round lighthouse in the country, built in 1822. The tower is 18.1 metres high, painted a cream colour and has a cast-iron walkway with a copper dome. The lighthouse was thoroughly renovated in 1901 and again in 2005, thanks in part to contributions from the local municipality and residents. The lighthouse is open to visitors on summer Sundays and during Open Monument Days.

Water facts about the Haringvliet
The Haringvliet is a former estuary of the North Sea, which is now a freshwater area due to the closure with the Haringvliet Dam, part of the Delta Works, completed in 1970. Here are some key facts:

Size and Depth: The Haringvliet covers an area of about 110 km², with depths ranging from -35 to -5 metres NAP (Normal Amsterdam Level).

Freshwater transition: Before the closure, the area had a brackish water environment with tidal influences. After the construction of the dam, it became mainly freshwater.

Ecological Importance: The Haringvliet is a crucial habitat for wintering waterbirds and endangered species such as avocets and spoonbills. Since 2018, thanks to the "Kierbesluit," limited saltwater inflow is allowed to support fish migration and ecological recovery.

Water management: The Haringvliet Dam regulates up to 70% of the Rhine and Meuse discharge into the North Sea, prevents flooding and preserves freshwater resources for agriculture and drinking water.

Recreation: With its 7,000 hectares of water surface, the Haringvliet is popular for sailing, surfing and other water sports.

Both the lighthouse and the Haringvliet highlight the region's rich maritime history and ongoing efforts to balance human activities with ecological protection.