The rudd returns: Emscher is blooming after decades of renewal!

The rudd returns: Emscher is blooming after decades of renewal!

A remarkable species return has taken place in the Emscher: the rudd, an enchanting schooling fish, has settled in this water again. This is a sign of the successful restoration work that has transformed the river from a former wastewater channel into a livable biotope. The river now extends from the mouth of the Rhine to the Emscher and finally offers the fish access to new habitats. Reported in this context Ruhr24 that the rudd is increasingly multiplying and thus enriching the fish population in this place.

What is behind this encouraging development? For decades, the Emscher was known as a biologically dead canal that served as a wastewater drain for more than 100 years. It used to be considered the dirtiest river in Europe. A five meter high concrete drop prevented fish from swimming into the Emscher, making it a “fish one-way street”. Thanks to the impressive natural redesign by the Emschergenossenschaft, the fish can now swim unhindered. Loud WDR There are now over 30 different species of fish living in the Emscher.

The renaturation of the Emscher

The renaturation of the Emscher took over 30 years and is considered consistently successful, especially in the areas of Dinslaken and Voerde. Experts agree that the return of the rudd is a sign of the river's recovery. Since the end of 2021, wastewater has no longer flowed openly into the Emscher, which means that clean and natural sections as well as modern sewage treatment plants are available in several cities. This development was promoted by the redesign of the last 500 meters in both directions of the river, which contributes significantly to the return of life in the water.

But how exactly the fish got into the Emscher remains a mystery. Possible routes include the mouth of the Rhine, natural tributaries, but parks and ponds could also have played a role. However, there are also concerns: Illegally released fish could disrupt native ecosystems, which could endanger biodiversity. The renaturation clearly shows how important these measures are for the ecology.

Advantages of natural waters

The benefits of natural water design go far beyond the return of fish. Loud Federal Environment Agency Intact running waters contribute to increasing the quality of life in cities and rural areas. They reduce the risk of flooding, provide habitat for many plant and animal species and support the breakdown of environmentally harmful substances. They are also important for adapting to climate change and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In summary, it can be said that the return of the rudd to the Emscher is not only a cause for joy, but also an important step towards a natural and livable environment. The restoration efforts are bearing their first fruits, and it is to be hoped that many more species will follow to make the Emscher a thriving ecosystem.