Hoogheemraadschap Hollands Noorderkwartier

Hoogheemraadschap HollandsNoorderkwartier is a Dutch regional water authority responsible for water management in the Hollands Noorderkwartier region. Its duties include flood protection, regulation of water quantity and quality, and wastewater treatment. It maintains dikes, waterways, and related infrastructure to safeguard the area against water-related risks. The organization provides services to the public within its area to ensure safe water supply and drainage. As a public body, it operates under Dutch water law and is tasked with implementing regional water policy.

As a water board, it has a regulatory role, including the authority to levy taxes and enforce water-related regulations within its territory. Its specialization lies in integrated water safety and environmental management, combining infrastructure maintenance with ecological considerations. Notable competencies include operating pumping stations, managing water levels, and maintaining water quality monitoring networks. The organization collaborates with other governmental bodies and stakeholders on climate adaptation projects. It also engages in long-term planning to address challenges such as sea‑level rise and extreme weather events.

In May 2024, a ransomware attack on its supplier AddComm resulted in the temporary hostage of data. Potentially exposed information included names, addresses, citizen service numbers, bank accounts, and property ownership details. Email addresses and phone numbers were reported as unaffected. Although the authority’s own systems were not breached, it filed a provisional data leak notification with regulators. It advised vigilance regarding payment verification while services were restored securely.