Boker-Heide Canal near Delbrück

The Boker Heide Canal near Delbrück, named after the surrounding heathland of Boker Heid, is an important Westphalian cultural monument. This region, a western foothill of the Senne, was one of the poorest in Westfalen in the 19th century due to its sandy soil. However, positive development began with the completion of the canal in 1853. The canal served as an irrigation and melioration canal until the 1970s and contributed significantly to the agricultural prosperity of the region. Today, the locks and long rows of trees characterize the landscape. The paths along the canal are ideal for walks and cycle tours, with numerous signposted cycle routes to explore. Today, the canal is mainly used for groundwater regulation, with two canal wardens operating the functional weirs to distribute the water as required. This historic waterway not only offers insights into the region's history, but also a wide range of recreational opportunities.