With up to 25 cm of ice and sub-zero temperatures challenging both equipment and accessibility, Høj Nordic Marine Contractor carried out an extensive dredging operation in Barther Bodden in northeastern Germany at the beginning of the year. The project combined precision work, advanced equipment, and close collaboration across stakeholders.
When the sea freezes, operations become even more complex
The task in Barth was large in both scale and complexity. Approximately 120,000 m³ of material had to be removed from the navigation channel between Barhöft and the port of Barth, as well as from the harbour basins in Barth.
Winter conditions in Barther Bodden affected the execution of the project throughout the entire period.
Ice formations of up to 25 cm and persistent frost made access conditions difficult in both the harbour and the work areas. At the same time, the ice limited the ability to carry out parts of the planned survey measurements, which continuously impacted both planning and execution.
To ensure continuous operations, it was also necessary to continuously pump flushing water through the pipeline to prevent freezing. This was a crucial prerequisite for maintaining stable production under the low temperatures.
Executed as one coordinated effort
The project was a shared project between DDW and Hegemann GmbH, but was carried out as one unified, coordinated effort.
On behalf of DDW, Høj Nordic Marine Contractor was responsible for the dredging of the harbour basins in Barth as well as the innermost approximately 5 km of the navigation channel. The work was carried out using M/S Vilma Høj Wire dredger and the pump station Veluwe, which functioned as an integrated system: Vilma Høj carried out the actual dredging operations, while Veluwe ensured the pumping of the material to the reclamation area Trebbin.
Planning and robustness meet winter conditions
Although the winter in Barther Bodden imposed significant limitations on access, surveying, and operations, the project was completed as planned through close coordination and specialized equipment.
The result was a re-established navigation channel and dredged harbour basins in Barth. Executed under challenging conditions, where precision, flexibility, and robustness were crucial to the successful completion of the work.
