"Aquamotec" to improve the water quality of Lake Aasee

Since this week, two devices have been in use on the Bocholt Aasee to permanently improve the water quality of the lake. The principle: water is pumped from the bottom of the lake through a hose to promote circulation and prevent bacteria from dying.

Pump islands in continuous use

The hose on the Aquamotec has a diameter of 20 centimetres. Each year, about two million cubic metres of water are moved per device. "The measure is intended to ensure that more oxygen reaches the bottom and that the sludge in the Aasee is continuously decomposed," says Daniel Zöhler, the city's construction officer. The desired result is, among other things, less blue-green algae, says Zöhler.

According to the city of Bocholt, the circulation at the bottom of the Aasee will revitalise the bacterial world. In addition, substances that are toxic to fish are broken down. Moreover, the system is completely safe for humans and animals because it works with low voltage, according to the city. The device is also climate-neutral: the built-in batteries are charged by solar energy.

The first of the two devices was lifted onto the water on Wednesday, the second on Thursday morning. Both are to be used in the southern third of the Aasee.

Gallery: Floating pumps are installed