Stream Sweeping 2023

Many factors play an important role in being able to utilize the full capacity of the in-house hydropower plant. One of these is the condition of the stream bed itself, which influences the possible flow rate and the disturbances at the weir caused by siltation and branches or garbage getting stuck. For this reason, the stream sweep is an important date every two years for all those power plant operators who use the water of the Mühlbach. By shutting off the water flow, the stream bed can be accessed and repaired. Many hands are busy cutting away overhanging branches and fallen trees, repairing the rotten walls of the stream wall and shoveling out tons of mud and debris with an excavator.
 
One secret guest proved to be particularly industrious: the resident beaver. The low water level motivated him to build a new dam every day, and he even managed to drag heavy stones into the water to secure his wooden construction. It was fascinating to see how quickly and tirelessly he built his work, which we were also able to observe via a wildlife camera.
 
It took two weeks of hard work to clear the stream before the water could be reintroduced.
The flow rate is now back to its maximum, which means that our hydropower plant can continue to generate plenty of green energy.