“De Spliet” or “De Landschee,” as the locals call it. Ever wondered what secrets this unassuming canal, the Moorburger Landscheide, holds?
The Moorburger Landscheide in Hamburg isn’t just a waterway. It’s a liquid border, a historical marker etched into the landscape. This Wetterung, a type of drainage canal, begins its journey in Heimfeld. It flows through the Mahlbusen Hohenwisch. Finally, it empties into the Moorwettern of the Süderelbe. From there, it finds its way via the Hohenwischer Schleusenfleet and the Alte Süderelbe into the Elbe River itself.
Imagine this area centuries ago. A network of Elbe Prielen, or small streams, crisscrossed the land. They separated several river islands. As people began to cultivate the wet meadows and marshlands between the geest ridges in the Middle Ages, they created Wetterungen. These canals drained the land. They made it suitable for agriculture.
The name “Moorburger Landscheide” reveals its historical significance. It once marked the state border. On one side lay the Duchy of Braunschweig-Lüneburg. Later, it became the Kingdom of Hanover. On the other side was Moorburg.
But the Moorburger Landscheide is more than just history and borders. It is teeming with life. Look closely into the water. You might spot a Gründling, a Rotauge, or even a Flussbarsch. These are common fish species in these waters. The side ditches are home to smaller creatures. The Neunstachliger Stichling, Schlammpeitzger, and Moderlieschen thrive here.
The Moorburger Landscheide also serves as a vital spawning and nursery ground. Both Hecht and Gründling depend on it. Picture tiny fish darting among the reeds. They are growing and preparing to venture into the larger waterways.
As you stand here, consider the bridges that span the Landscheide. Think about the Harburger Hafenbahn rumbling overhead. The Landscheide flows beneath it. Notice the surface of the water. It is often covered with tiny Wasserlinsen.
The Noblee-Werke in the Harburger Seehafen can be seen from here. The Moorburger Landscheide offers a unique vantage point. It is a place where industry and nature meet.
The Moorburger Landscheide has several tributaries. The Dubbengraben, the Östlicher Schwarzer-Weg-Graben, and the Westlicher Schwarzer-Weg-Graben are just a few. Each one contributes to the overall health and flow of this vital waterway.
The Moorburger Landscheide. It is a reminder of Hamburg’s rich history and vibrant ecosystem. It connects the past with the present. It is a testament to the enduring power of nature and human ingenuity.