Harpener Ponds (Blue Lagoon)

Since autumn 2011, the mine water, which has a temperature of 20 degrees, has been used to heat the surrounding buildings. After trial operation began in June 2012, the official heat supply began for the Willy Brandt Comprehensive School, the Von Waldthausen Elementary School and the adjacent main station of the Bochum Fire Department.

Thanks to the natural use of geothermal heat, at least 245 tons of carbon dioxide are saved per year compared to conventional heat supply.

Harpener Teiche, also called Werner Teiche, are a network of still waters, some of which are fed by the Harpener Bach.

The fact that there are many benches inviting you to take a break and in many places offering a good view over the idyllic ponds and the diverse birdlife only partially distracts from the fact that they were originally purification ponds for mine water from the Robert Müser colliery. Observant walkers and cyclists will probably have already noticed the particular cloudiness of the water, which turns the waters to the north into a milky liquid. In addition, there is an irregularly occurring and locally bestial smell of putrefaction. The source of the problem is quickly found: To ensure the stability of the mining industry, mine water from the Robert Müser mine is artificially pumped up and discharged via the Harpen ponds into the stream and into the Ruhr.

Harpener Teiche (Bochum)

On the trail of mining

The Harpener Teiche - also called Werner Teiche, are a network of still waters, some of which are fed by the Harpener Bach. This rises as Bövinghauser Bach in Dortmund and changes its name as it flows over the city limits to Bochum. Located in the immediate vicinity of the hustle and bustle of the Ruhr-Park shopping center, the recreational potential of the Harpener Teiche is surprising. Originally created as sewage ponds for the Bochum mining industry, the ponds offer walkers, cyclists and joggers an uncrowded oasis of peace. The only thing that stands out from this is the feed point for the mine water from the Robert-Müser colliery, with its loud noise and bubbling, which is responsible for the milky cloudiness and, at times, an unpleasant sulfur smell caused by the mineral-rich water. Seating is available for a break. There is also a wedding forest at the Harpener Teichen. A network of paths accessible from the west, south and north leads through a special flora and fauna.