The Floßgraben, Leipzig's most sensitive stretch of water, runs between the Cospudener lock or the Lauer and the Connewitzer lock. In this approx. 4 km long section of the river in the southern Leipzig Auenwald within the protected areas of the landscape protection area (LSG) "Leipziger Auwald", SPA area "Leipziger Auwald" and FFH area "Leipziger Auensystem" intensive water maintenance measures with weeds took place again and again in the past and deadwood removal, which we have clearly spoken out against. Because these directly affect the conservation status of the local populations of the Natura 2000 protected area objectives of green harlequin, kingfisher, bitterling and the FFH habitat type underwater vegetation in running waters as well as the achievement of the objectives of the European Water Framework Directive.
The general decree on special protective measures for the kingfisher by the city of Leipzig applies to the raft ditch. From March 1st up to and including September 30th, human-powered watercraft are only allowed to enter the raft ditch to a limited extent. The bank may not be walked on or driven on on a 20 meter wide strip on either side of the bank. Motorized boats are strictly prohibited in the raft ditch.