Expanded Flood Protection Measures Planned for the Schwarze Elster River
The German state of Brandenburg is moving forward with comprehensive flood protection initiatives along the Schwarze Elster River. This waterway, which is among the most regulated rivers in Germany, has experienced repeated issues with flooding in recent years. Regional authorities are now implementing new strategies aimed at reducing flood risks and improving water management.
The Brandenburg Ministry of the Environment has announced that additional floodplains will be established to offer the river more capacity during periods of high water levels. A primary component of this project involves relocating a dike to the south of the town of Bad Liebenwerda. By shifting the dike, more controlled overflow areas will be created, allowing the river to expand safely during flood conditions and decreasing the likelihood of damage to nearby communities.
Officials emphasize that the main objective is to grant the river more space to manage excess water, thereby enhancing the safety of residents and infrastructure in adjacent towns and villages. These measures are designed to facilitate controlled flooding in predetermined areas, which can absorb surplus water and reduce pressure on dikes and other protective structures.
Another significant aspect of the ongoing efforts is the removal of iron hydroxide sludge from the riverbed. This substance, a byproduct of lignite mining activities in the Lusatia region, accumulates in the river and hinders water flow. The extraction of this sludge has been underway since the beginning of 2025, with the goal of improving the river's capacity to transport water efficiently and minimizing the risk of blockages that could worsen flood events.
The Schwarze Elster originates in the Lusatian Highlands of Saxony and traverses the Brandenburg districts of Oberspreewald-Lausitz and Elbe-Elster before joining the Elbe River in Saxony-Anhalt. The river has a history of severe flooding, which has in the past led to dike overtopping and breaches, resulting in property damage and disruptions for local populations.
Through the planned interventions, authorities aim to modernize flood management along the Schwarze Elster, adapting to both historical challenges and the evolving impacts of climate change. By providing additional room for the river and maintaining its channels, the region seeks to strike a balance between flood protection, ecological sustainability, and the interests of the population.
These projects are part of a broader strategy to enhance flood resilience throughout Brandenburg, reflecting a shift towards more nature-based solutions and proactive river management. The measures also underscore the ongoing need to address the environmental consequences of past industrial activities, ensuring that local waterways remain safe and functional for years to come.