Borlefzen's lake has been discharged
The swimming lake at the Vlotho campsite in Vlotho-Borlefzen is now open to bathers following a two-week swimming ban. The ban was imposed due to the detection of blue-green algae in the water, a common freshwater algae that can cause skin irritation, redness, or rashes in bathers.
In response to the ban, several measures were taken on site to improve the water quality. Aeration pumps were used to increase the oxygen content of the lake, while a "mowing boat" was employed to remove blue-green algae. Additionally, the water level of the Weser, which may have contributed to the development of the algae, was monitored closely.
The district health department has been monitoring the water quality of the swimming lake monthly. The latest water samples show no exceedance of limit values, indicating that the lake is now free of visible blue-green algae. High temperatures and the stillness of the lake, due to low inflow, may have also contributed to the development of the algae.
It is worth noting that the swimming lake in Borlefzen is a "EU bathing lake" listed under the EU Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EG). The responsible authority for water quality monitoring of the EU bathing beach in Borlefzen is usually the local environmental or health department of the municipality or region where Borlefzen is located.
During the closure of the swimming lake, the campsite remained open for other camping offers. The swimming ban was lifted on September 3, 2025, and the lake is now safe for swimming once again. Bathers are advised to continue monitoring the water quality and to avoid swimming if any signs of blue-green algae are detected.
The district health department will continue to monitor the water quality of the swimming lake on a monthly basis to ensure the safety of bathers. The reopening of the swimming lake marks a welcome return to normal activities for campers and visitors at the Vlotho campsite in Vlotho-Borlefzen.
