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In the picturesque county of Erding, Germany, 14 designated bathing spots offer a refreshing dip for locals and tourists alike. These popular swimming destinations are meticulously monitored to ensure the water is safe for health.
For six of these bathing spots, including Erlensee (Lain), Kronthaler, Langenpreisinger, Moosinninger, and Woerther (Wiflinger) lakes, as well as Thenner See, their status as EU bathing waters is due to high bathing numbers. The water quality at these sites is assessed according to the EU Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC), which requires regular testing from May to September.
The Erding Health Department takes water samples from all 14 bathing spots and sends them to the Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL) in Oberschleißheim for microbiological analysis. This rigorous testing process has been in place for many years.
The sampling process focuses on microbial indicators such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and intestinal enterococci, ensuring the water is free from sewage contamination. The water quality is classified into four categories: Excellent, Good, Sufficient, and Poor, based on these microbial levels.
In addition to these tests, visible changes such as algae growth, turbidity, or pollution are documented on site during testing. While the occurrence of parasites such as cercariae, which can cause itching skin irritation, cannot be ruled out, the water quality values at these bathing spots are "well below the permitted limit values."
District Administrator Martin Bayerstorfer has emphasized that the bathing waters in Erding are safe for health. However, visitors are advised to take precautions when swimming in lakes near Erding.
Before swimming, it's essential to check the latest local bathing water quality reports, which are often published online by Bavarian environment agencies. Swimming after heavy rain should be avoided as runoff can temporarily raise bacterial levels. Visible signs of cyanobacteria blooms (blue-green algae), which can be toxic, should also be avoided, especially by children who swallow more water than adults.
At thermal or wellness spas like Therme Erding, specific hygiene rules should be followed, such as using shower facilities and respecting pool usage guidelines.
Municipalities can control and penalize through their own regulations regarding behavioral rules. Four simple rules for maintaining water quality are: no feeding of waterfowl, disposing of waste properly, not introducing waste into the water, and using public toilets.
Natural waters are sensitive habitats, and it is up to everyone to contribute to maintaining high water quality through careful behavior. After all, the health and enjoyment of all who visit these beautiful bathing spots depend on it.
