Curious how a lake could be born from a highway? The Eichbaumsee in Hamburg tells such a tale. This is no ordinary lake. It’s a testament to Hamburg’s growth and its residents’ love for recreation.
Eichbaumsee is located in the southeastern part of Hamburg. More precisely, it lies in the Marschlanden, within the Allermöhe district. The lake’s creation is directly linked to the construction of the A25 Autobahn in 1972. The sand needed for the autobahn’s base was extracted here. This excavation gave birth to the Eichbaumsee.
Imagine this area before 1972. It was a different landscape altogether. Then, the excavators arrived and the Eichbaumsee began to take shape. Today, it stretches for about one kilometer and is 280 meters wide. Its deepest point plunges to 16 meters.
Initially, Eichbaumsee had a direct connection to the Dove Elbe. This connection was severed when the regatta course was expanded in 1977. Now, only a minimal water exchange occurs through permeable sediment layers.
For years, the Eichbaumsee was a beloved spot for Hamburg’s swimmers. However, the lake often faced algal blooms during hot summers. Despite efforts to improve water quality, swimming was banned from 2007 to 2023. The “Polyp I” and “Polyp II” systems were installed to aerate the deep water in 2005 and 2007.
In January 2023, a decision was made to allow swimming on a trial basis at the eastern shore. Authorities now monitor the water quality closely. According to BUKEA, the water quality is now excellent.
Anglers also appreciate the Eichbaumsee. The Anglerverband Hamburg stocks the lake with carp, pike, zander, and tench. Before a fish kill in 2009, the lake was famous for its large carp.
But caution is advised. The Eichbaumsee is a former excavation site. There are sudden drop-offs near the shore. The water becomes very deep unexpectedly. This is typical for a quarry pond. Mass formation of toxic blue-green algae often occurs in summer. If you cannot see your feet in knee-deep water, you should not swim. Swimming to the deep water aerators is prohibited for safety reasons. Entering the aerators is also forbidden.
If you are visiting in summer, you might catch the Wutzrock Festival on the eastern meadow. It is an awesome experience.
The Eichbaumsee is more than just a lake. It represents Hamburg’s ability to transform and adapt. From its accidental creation to its current status as a recreational area, the Eichbaumsee continues to evolve. So, take a moment to appreciate this body of water. Remember that the Eichbaumsee is a place where nature and human endeavor intertwine.