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The Zweckverband Wasserversorgung Kleine Kinzig is one of four long-distance water suppliers in Baden-Württemberg and supplies around 350,000 inhabitants with pure drinking water from the Black Forest. Founded on June 12, 1974, after a planning phase from 1971, the association takes over the complete, independent water supply for 32 members – including cities such as Alpirsbach, Baiersbronn and Elzach as well as municipalities and other special purpose associations.[1][2][7][9]
The main task is the extraction, treatment and distribution of drinking water via an approx. 220 km long pipe network. The water comes from the in the Black Forest, which is protected by three strict drinking water protection zones. Motor vehicles are prohibited in the catchment area, recreational activities such as fishing or boating are prohibited - this is how raw water of the highest quality is created.[7][8]
In the modern waterworks, it is extracted via an extraction tower from up to eight depths, biologically pre-cleaned in a two-layer filtration (coal and sand) and processed into drinking water. Turbines use the dam pressure to generate electricity, which increases efficiency. The association also offers online plan information for construction projects and opens its facilities for company tours - for groups of up to 50 people or individual visitors, including an informative 15-minute image film.[3][4][5][8]
The association is managed by the Verbandsversammlung, the Verwaltungsrat and the Verbandsvorsitzenden (Mayor Thomas Haas from Schiltach). Managing Director Maik Zinser represents the association. Department heads take care of water extraction (Thomas Bechle), pipe network (Martin Heinzelmann) and electrical engineering/energy management (Steffen Winter). A dedicated team of operations fitters, laboratory staff and administrative staff ensures smooth operation.[1][2][6]
The Verbandssatzung (last amended in 2021) regulates membership, name and registered office. As a public special purpose association, the members transfer the sole responsibility for the water supply to it.[2]
The mission is: To reliably provide pure drinking water as a precious food. Values such as highest quality, nature conservation and sustainability shape everyday life. The unique selling point - the own dam and biological treatment - underlines the focus on natural, gentle processes. The association emphasizes transparency through visits and provides information about its history and technology.[2][4][5][7]
Sustainability is central: The dam rigorously protects the sensitive catchment area, biological filtration minimizes the use of chemicals. Turbines generate electricity from wastewater pressure, electrical engineering optimizes energy consumption. Drinking water protection zones ensure long-term water quality and biodiversity. The association promotes awareness through educational offers such as guided tours, which awaken appreciation for Black Forest water.[4][5][8]
With over 50 years of expertise, the Zweckverband Wasserversorgung Kleine Kinzig remains a guarantor for safe, sustainable supply in the region - a model for environmentally friendly water management.[2][7]
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