Photo: Cesar von Meissen
Initial measures have been decided.
After Baldeneysee.Following a report by Baldeneysee.Ruhr about the algae infestation in the Baldeneysee and discussions with those affected on site, the responsible parties have now taken action. Initial measures for the short-term and long-term remediation of the Baldeneysee have been decided upon. On July 28, 2016, representatives of the stakeholders met for an initial working meeting to develop the Baldeneysee action plan. Baldeneysee.Ruhr explains how the two-stage approach will be implemented.
Joint deployment and area plan
Ruhrverband, Grün und Gruga, the IG Baldeney, the Essen Sports Federation eV (ESPO), the sports and swimming pool operations of the city of Essen, the Essen Employment and Training Company mbH (EABG) and the German Life Saving Association eV (DLRG) want to develop a joint deployment and area plan within the next week.
Short-term measures
In the short term, the Ruhrverband's mowing boat will be used to cut the algae carpet at a significantly higher frequency. Personnel support will be provided by the sports and swimming pool operators, the Weisse Flotte, and the sports clubs, according to a representative of the city of Essen. EABG will assist with the removal of the cut algae. Priority will be given to clearing the DLRG (German Life Saving Association) water rescue routes and the regatta course of excessive aquatic plant growth.
Long-term measures
In the long term, there will be action days with volunteer helpers. A scientific research project will determine which measures prove to be permanently effective in combating aquatic plant growth. Possible methods include dredging the Baldeneysee reservoir or other physical measures such as irradiating the algae with ultraviolet light. Back in 2009, the Ruhrverband reservoir released roach fish to combat the aquatic plants. The hope that these fish would reproduce and provide effective biological control apparently could not be fulfilled. This was primarily because other aquatic plants, such as pondweed and cattails, joined the initial Elodea plant.
Financial support
To secure financial support for the planned projects, the Ruhrverband now intends to develop a project outline and, together with the city of Essen, seek support from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
