Neetze (river)

The Neetze is a small river in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is a left tributary of the Ilmenau and is approximately 54 kilometers long. The Neetze rises south of Munster and flows mainly in a northerly direction, passing through or near the towns of Hermannsburg, Bienenbüttel, and Lüneburg before joining the Ilmenau. The river's watershed is primarily agricultural, with some forested areas. The Neetze is known for its relatively clean water quality and is popular for recreational activities such as canoeing and fishing. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the river's ecosystem.