Bad Pyrmont is experiencing a lack of water: the gondola pond is in danger of drying out!

Bad Pyrmont is experiencing a lack of water: the gondola pond is in danger of drying out!

In Bad Pyrmont, the gondola pond is currently causing concern. The city administration temporarily closed off the pond during the cold period with its red and white fluttering tape. The ice layer on the pond is too thin to walk on, and the ice is currently melting, which has caused the water level to drop significantly. Michael Rausch, a concerned councilman, has expressed concerns about the dramatic drop in water levels. This is particularly problematic because the gondola pond has no natural water inlet, which leads to a continuous decrease in the water level. Dewezet reports that a year ago, students at the Ostwestfalen-Lippe University of Technology developed visions for a natural swimming lake with boat rentals, which now seem unrealistic.

The problem is exacerbated by measures to combat algae. To prevent algae growth in summer, the pond is artificially aerated. In the past, volunteer fire departments have pumped water out of the pond and sprayed it back in to increase oxygen levels. In August 2020, a significant amount of 750,000 liters of water was transferred from the Emmer into the gondola pond, which was able to raise the water level by eight centimeters. However, it should be mentioned at this point that water extraction from the Emmer is no longer permitted in dry times, which further worsens the situation.

The historical water inflow and its consequences

The deputy head of the building department, Mr. Böhnke, emphasizes that the water level in the gondola pond is really a problem. According to historical records, the gondola pond may once have been fed by the Schlossgraft, but this tributary no longer exists. In addition, recent construction work on the new fire station revealed old canals, although their original function remains unclear. There is currently no known supply to the gondola pond, further exacerbating the situation.

Current water levels in Bad Pyrmont

But what about the water levels in the surrounding waters? The Level online Information indicates that the gauge name Bad Pyrmont, which belongs to the Emmer, has calculated various flood areas. These are important for both flood risk management and flood assessment.

• HQ häufig: 525 cm / NN + 97,58 m
• HQ 100: 571 cm / NN + 98,04 m
• HQ extrem: 606 cm / NN + 98,39 m

This data provides a clear overview of the situation in Bad Pyrmont and illustrates the importance of sustainable water management in order to overcome the challenges of the gondola pond and the region.