Iron-rich drainage at the Vorstsedreef

(Click on the bold words for more information, not available via the app, but available on the website.)Here, in the valley of the Astense Aa, various Peelrand fractures and side fractures occur. Because the fracture is waterproof, the groundwater cannot pass through the fracture. This creates upward pressure which causes the water from the subsoil to rise. Due to this phenomenon, known as a 'wijst', wet and sometimes marshy spots develop along the fracture. The groundwater is very rich in iron and oxidizes when it comes into contact with oxygen. The iron oxide (rust) colors the water brownish-red.

Jos van Nistelrooy