Once upon a time, the Feldmochinger Mülbach was not just a stream. It was a vital part of Munich’s water system. Let’s explore its story.
The Feldmochinger Mülbach begins as the Reigersbach in Moosach. It flows north past Feldmoching. It eventually joins the Würmkanal. This six-kilometer channel is part of the Nordmünchner Kanalsystem.
In the Middle Ages, three mills needed water. They were built on the Moosach in Feldmoching. Small streams diverted excess water from these mills. The Obermühle was first mentioned in 819. The Untermühle followed in 826. The Mittermühle appeared in 1468. Today, the Mittermühle with the Schrederbächl remains. Also, the Obermühle with the Auwasser still exist.
Before canals supplied water to Schleißheim palaces, the Feldmochinger Mülbach was the Moosach’s upper course. The Moosach is a tributary of the Isar.
Duke Wilhelm V wanted to supply his Schwaige with water. So, the Würmkanal was built in 1601. Later, around 1690, Elector Max II Emanuel wanted canal networks between his castles. This led to the Nordmünchner Kanalsystem. It was originally 50 km long. Today, 36 km remain.
The Feldmochinger Mülbach once powered three mills in Feldmoching. Each mill needed a strong current. Excess water could damage the mills. So side channels were created. These returned to the main stream later.
Today, the Feldmochinger Mülbach faces challenges. Its water level is low due to dry sources. The Reigersbach is its most important source. It flows parallel to Reigersbachstraße. The Füssigraben source has dried up.
Near the Feldmochinger See, the Auwasser diverts water. This leaves the Mülbach dry for about 150 meters. The Schrederbächl also takes water. The Mülbach is almost dry near the fish ponds.
The Kälberbach adds water after the Untermühle. This helps the Mülbach reach its end in the Würmkanal. The Feldmochinger Mülbach once drove Feldmoching’s economy. Now, it’s threatened by drought. Parts of the stream have dried up within Feldmoching. Fish are trapped unable to reach the Würmkanal. The Feldmochinger Mülbach has a rich history. It shows how humans have shaped Munich’s waterways.