Picture this a tranquil lake nestled unexpectedly amidst Dortmund’s landscape. This is the Pleckenbrinksee. Its story begins not with a grand design but with a collapse a subsidence caused by the long-gone coal mining industry. Around 1930 a sinkhole appeared. A drainage system and pump kept the area dry for decades. Imagine the fertile farmland that once stood here. Then in 2007 everything changed.
The drainage system failed. The pump stopped. Slowly at first then rapidly a lake began to form in the old sinkhole. The Pleckenbrinksee was born. What was a field of maize transformed into a significant wetland. Unexpectedly rare birds began to appear. Some species were even on the endangered list. This unexpected haven became a focal point. Discussions about its preservation began almost immediately.
The Pleckenbrinksee is more than just a pretty lake. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of the Ruhr region’s industrial past. A reminder that even after the mines closed their influence lingers. It also illustrates the surprising resilience of nature. The Pleckenbrinksee’s story is one of unexpected beauty and surprising wildlife. It’s a reminder of nature’s ability to reclaim and thrive even in the most unexpected of places. Beneath its serene surface lies a fascinating history.
But the Pleckenbrinksee’s tale isn’t over yet. There was a challenge. A gas pipeline ran beneath the newly formed lake. To ensure the pipeline’s safety the lake was temporarily drained in 2011. The water was pumped out allowing for the pipeline to be secured. The Pleckenbrinksee’s waters eventually returned. It is now considered a protected landscape part of the larger Wickeder Ostholz nature reserve.
Today the Pleckenbrinksee is a place of tranquility and natural beauty. You can walk around the entire lake. It’s about 1.6 kilometers. Along the way you might see geese ducks frogs and various other creatures. The Pleckenbrinksee is a testament to the enduring power of nature a quiet refuge in the heart of an industrial area. It’s a place where you can appreciate both the beauty of nature and the impact of human history. Remember to respect the delicate ecosystem around this special place.