Illschwang and Birgland water associations conclude historic cooperation!

Illschwang and Birgland water associations conclude historic cooperation!

On February 9, 2026, a significant cooperation agreement was signed between the Illschwang and Birgland water associations in the Illschwang town hall. Chairmen Elmar Halk from the Schwend-Poppberg Group and Dieter Dehling from the Illschwang Group were the signatories of this important document, which follows a two-year test phase that laid the foundation for closer cooperation between both associations. This initiative aims to increase the efficiency and quality of water supply in the participating communities.

The new agreement aims to improve cooperation between the technical staff of both water associations. This is particularly important in order to meet the increasing legal requirements and the requirements of the Working Hours Act. This is also intended to ensure a functioning on-call service. The big advantage of the cooperation is that both associations no longer have to have at least two full-time employees, which can lead to considerable relief.

Collaboration and adapted resources

The technical staff, including water master Peter Kölbel, specialist Klaus Loos and water warden Ernst Herbst, will benefit from this collaboration. The costs of personnel, equipment and machines are shared fairly between the two associations, resulting in more efficient use of existing resources. In addition, the fleet is available to both association areas, which will increase flexibility and speed of response in the future.

The motivation behind this cooperation is clear: Elmar Halk brings with him experience from managing a cooperation between five water suppliers. Its goal is to ensure the safe supply of high-quality drinking water to all customers. Dieter Dehling also spoke positively about the initiative and emphasized the expected synergy effects of this partnership.

Managed infrastructure and future challenges

The infrastructure managed by both associations includes extensive resources: 210 kilometers of water pipes, 2,010 house connections, over 5,800 residents served, six deep wells, six elevated tanks as well as three waterworks and pumping stations. This extensive infrastructure requires careful management, especially during periods of increased absence due to employee vacation or illness.

The cooperation between the Illschwang and Birgland water associations is not only an important step towards ensuring a reliable water supply, but also an example of modern, resource-saving administration in rural regions. The signing of the agreement represents significant progress in municipal cooperation.

For further information about the cooperation agreement, read more on the website Birgland.