The Reservoir Control Centre

The Ruhrverband is responsible for managing the dams and reservoirs of the Ruhr river basin. For this purpose, it has operated a Reservoir Control Centre in Essen since 1995. On the one hand, the reservoir system serves to raise low water levels to ensure water supply at times of low natural discharge, for example in dry summers with low precipitation. On the other hand, it guarantees flood protection via the required flood-control storage areas during the winter months. Therefore, the Reservoir Control Centre carries out regular analyses of the latest data, as a basis for decisions on reservoir control.

Reservoir control
Information on reservoir control can be found in the "Situation Report" (Lagebericht), "Water Info Sheet" (Wasserbogen) and the "Latest News" (Aktuelle Meldungen). In addition to the latest weather report, the "Situation Report" provides a comprehensive overview of reservoirs and dams as well as information on anticipated discharge. The "Water Info Sheet" consists of a table listing the relevant control data for the reservoir and dam system. The "Latest News" are published on demand (for example in a flood situation), as a supplement to the Situation Report, which is updated each working day.

Webcams
Below you will find an overview of available Ruhrverband webcams. Click on the webcam image to access the webcam site for a larger view.