Photo: Bianca Killmann
Elodea causes problems again in the Baldeneysee
In the Baldeneysee reservoir in Essen, the largest of the six Ruhr reservoirs, it has been established for several years: the waterweed with the botanical name Elodea nuttallii. After three years of manageable growth, the Baldeneysee is now overgrown this summer and shimmers green instead of blue in large parts. This is a nuisance for all water sports enthusiasts who use the Baldeneysee for recreation and training, and unfortunately also dangerous. Water sports enthusiasts not only have to be careful not to get entangled in the plant, but also to avoid collisions with the... passenger ships avoid.
Invasive Art
Narrow-leaved waterweed is actually native to North America, but it has been spreading in Europe for years. This includes local waters such as the... Baldeneysee. The popular lake in the Ruhr region is not only a destination for day trips, but is also used primarily for water sports and competitions. And this is precisely what is becoming a problem due to the proliferation of the invasive aquatic plant, Elodea canadensis.
Channel for passenger ships
Two mowing boats are supposed to keep the growth of this plant in check, but first the "Nimmersatt" (Insatiable) broke down, and then the second, GPS-guided mowing boat also failed. The priority given to mowing seems to be the passenger ship channel. Weiße Flotte Baldeney GmbH is a subsidiary of the city, which also covers the mowing costs. While in road traffic the "stronger" is expected to yield to the "weaker," it seems to be exactly the opposite on the Baldeneysee. This was revealed in conversations with water sports enthusiasts. Using the mowed passenger ship channel is therefore a dangerous alternative.
Rapid growth
As reported by WDR, citing the regional association, its efforts to curb the growth of Elodea nuttalli using other methods have met with little success. Herbivorous fish, water edges, and removal with water pressure have been tested as part of a research project. Although the presence of this waterweed indicates good water quality and is generally considered a positive sign, its rapid spread and growth of up to 20 centimeters per day to the water's surface pose a danger to water sports enthusiasts.
Danger of capsizing
Paddles, oars, oars, and propellers can become entangled, causing a capsize. Once a rower has capsized, the waterweed poses an immediate danger to life and limb if it wraps itself around their legs while they are in the water. Years ago, Baldeneysee.Ruhr reported on a young rower who had to be rescued by the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) after capsizing because the plants had become wrapped around her oars. A television crew from the West German Broadcasting Corporation (WDR) reenacted the situation with the student involved and reported on it.
After three years of moderate growth, the waterweed is now back and stronger than ever before.
