The Stör Barrage is a major structure at the mouth of the Stör into the Elbe, located in the municipality of Wewelsfleth. Built between 1971 and 1975 in response to the devastating storm surge of 1962, it serves to protect the inland from flooding and storm surges. The barrage controls the water level of the Stör and prevents floodwater from the Elbe from reaching land. For this purpose, a new estuary of the Stör was created north of the old course, while the original river course is now used as a port.
The barrage consists of several locks and weirs that are closed when necessary to prevent flooding. It also enables shipping between the Stör and the Elbe by remaining open under normal conditions and only closing when there is a risk of flooding. In addition, the barrage offers protection for the adjacent agricultural areas and settlements that would otherwise be at risk during storm surges.
The construction of the Stör Barrage is an important part of coastal protection in Schleswig-Holstein and shows the measures that were taken to secure the region after the historic storm surges. It is an impressive example of engineering and plays an essential role in the flood protection system of the Elbe marshes.