Dying for a breath of fresh air? You’re standing at the Barther Pfuhl. It is more than just a body of water. It’s a mirror reflecting the challenges of urban ecology.
The Barther Pfuhl faces some serious environmental issues. Investigations revealed elevated nutrient levels, as early as 2014, persisting through 2021 and 2023. This is due to poorly treated rainwater runoff. The Pfuhl is classified as hypertrophic. This means it’s excessively enriched with nutrients. During the summer months, this leads to oxygen depletion.
Adding to its troubles, the Barther Pfuhl suffers from siltation and land loss. Despite these challenges, there’s hope. The Lichtenberg district authority is planning some measures. A reed mowing is planned for the winter of 2024/25. This will help to maintain the open water surface. It will remove biomass. Larger-scale dredging would require significant investment. It also requires funding through specific programs. Currently, there are no immediate plans for extensive renovation. Other bodies of water in Berlin have higher priority.
The district faces financial constraints. This limits immediate help for all water bodies. The focus is on priority bodies of water. The authorities are constantly exploring ways to improve conditions. This includes adjusting maintenance and developing restoration plans. They are examining options for disconnecting rainwater drainage.
The Barther Pfuhl is grappling with significant ecological challenges. It is affected by nutrient overload, siltation and water loss. These problems demand attention. They highlight the need for action to preserve this small body of water. It is hoped that planned and future measures will improve the Pfuhl’s ecological health.
Despite its problems, the Barther Pfuhl offers a glimpse of nature within the urban landscape. Various water birds often visit its surface. Around the Barther Pfuhl, you can find remnants of an art project. The concrete sculpture ensemble “Stühle” by Hartmut Henning, Robert Rehfeld, and Hanfried Schulz was erected in 1988. Sadly, only three of the six “chairs” and the table remain. The Barther Pfuhl reflects urban existence and natural environment.