Ostesperrwerk, Tidal barrier in Neuhaus, Germany
The Ostesperrwerk is a tidal barrier on the Oste River with five wide openings designed to let ships pass through. The central section features a special passage that allows normal vessel traffic to continue on the river.
Construction of the barrier started in 1964 following severe floods in 1962 and was completed in 1968. The project arose from the need to strengthen the Oste dikes after significant damage from those floods.
The barrier demonstrates how communities in this region rely on engineering to defend their homes and farmland from flooding. Visitors can see how the structure shapes daily life and represents local confidence in managing natural forces.
The central opening acts like a drawbridge to allow ships to pass through. The barrier normally stays open to not disrupt river traffic but closes during storms when water levels rise.
The two main steel gates each weigh around 75 tons and seal the opening watertight. The side gates feature special locks that provide extra protection during severe storm surges.
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