Invasive species and pests in the Ruhre catchment area

Invasive species threaten our waters in many different ways: They change ecosystems, impair water quality, obstruct technical facilities and complicate the management of water resources. Especially in times of increasing climatic changes and growing demands on water supplies, they are a serious challenge.

Invasive species are species that are intentionally or unintentionally introduced outside their natural range and become established, spread and have negative effects on the environment, economy or health.

The Ruhrverband is particularly confronted with the following invasive species and pests in the Ruhr and in the dams and reservoirs: Elodea, quagga mussel, bark beetle, crayfish

The presence of invasive species is also an increasing challenge in the Ruhr catchment area. In order to minimise their impact on water quality, ecosystems and water management facilities, the Ruhrverband relies on systematic monitoring. Biological and chemical data is regularly collected at numerous measuring and observation points in rivers, reservoirs and storage basins.

Control is achieved by closely dovetailing ecological and technical measures. Dam operations, for example, are harmonised to reduce the drift of invasive species. In particularly affected water bodies, mechanical methods are used for containment, such as removing plant populations or cleaning technical facilities that may be affected by mussel species or algae.

Another focus is on prevention: information campaigns for anglers, water sports enthusiasts and other user groups point out simple rules of behaviour to prevent unwanted spread. At the same time, the Ruhrverband works closely with authorities, research institutions and partner organisations in order to be able to react to new developments at an early stage and integrate experience from other regions into its own management.