Where does the Ruhr river begin and at what elevation?
The river begins its journey near the town of Winterberg in the mountainous Sauerland region. It rises at an elevation of approximately 360 meters above sea level.
Questions about Ruhr (river)
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did French forces occupy the Ruhr valley during the 20th century?
French forces occupied the Ruhr due to the Weimar Republic's failure to continue paying reparations from World War I starting in 1923. This occupation lasted until 1924.
Which dams on the Ruhr were targeted by Operation Chastise in the Second World War?
Two of the dams on the Ruhr became targets for Operation Chastise during the Second World War. The Möhne Dam and the Sorpe Dam stood as critical infrastructure for German wartime production capabilities.
How many artificial lakes exist along the Ruhr river today?
Five artificial lakes now exist along the river for leisure activities. Hengsteysee, Harkortsee, Kemnader See, Baldeneysee, and Kettwiger See serve as centers for swimming, boating, and fishing today.
Why have salmon not been observed in the Ruhr river in decades?
Dozens of smaller and larger dams prevented migratory species like salmon from ascending or descending the river. Salmon have not been observed in the river in decades due to these concrete barriers built for power generation.