The Eisbachwelle, a prominent surfing wave located on the Eisbach canal in central Munich, has ceased to form following dredging operations conducted by city engineers in early November. This phenomenon, also known as the "E1" by local surfers, was previously a 1.5-meter (4.9-feet) high wave, but now appears as a reduced whitewater bump.
Background to the Disappearance
The Eisbach canal, a two-kilometer-long (1.2-mile) side arm of the Isar River, undergoes routine dredging. This year, the operation was conducted with increased scrutiny following the drowning death of a surfer on the Eisbachwelle in April. According to Alexander Neumann of the Munich River Surfers' Association, the dredging may have removed sediment from the canal bed that was crucial for the wave's formation.
Hydrological Explanation
Markus Disse, a hydrology professor at the Technical University of Munich, states that a surfable wave like the Eisbachwelle is a hydraulic jump requiring a specific water speed combined with an underwater sediment "bump." Disse suggests that the dredging likely removed this essential underwater structure. He proposes potential solutions, including adjusting the water discharge or introducing gravel to re-create the necessary sediment bump.
City's Response and Efforts
Susanne Mühlbauer, a spokesperson for the city of Munich, issued a statement recognizing the Eisbach wave as a significant symbol of urban sports, leisure culture, and a popular tourist attraction. The city's tourism board includes the site in its marketing efforts. An engineering team from Hamburg has been commissioned by the city to investigate the wave's disappearance and is currently using GPS and sonar equipment to map the underwater structure of the riverbed.
Historically, surfing on this section of the canal was illegal until 2010 when the city facilitated a land swap with the state of Bavaria to legalize the activity. Surfers have made efforts to restore the wave; a temporary wooden ramp they submerged was subsequently removed by authorities due to being an unauthorized structure. The city continues to work towards a permanent solution.