Dyke Ditch

Its purpose was to collect surface runoff for the operation of the Upper Harz mining industry from precipitation-heavy regions a long way away (particularly from the Bruchberg and parts of the Brocken massif).

Not until the completion of the dyke in 1734 could large watercourses east of Clausthal be tapped into: the streams of the Großer and Kleiner Gerlachsbach.

In addition from the second half of the 19th century other forms of energy (steam engines) were brought into operation, initially alongside water power.

In the middle of the 19th century work was carried out to optimise water flow in area of the 10 km long section between Sperberhai Dyke and Clausthal.

Following the closure of the mines the Dyke Ditch supplied water up to about 1978 for the generation of electricity in Kaiser Wilhelm Shaft.

A footpath from Osterode to Thale, the Harzer Hexenstieg ("Harz Witches' Climb"), runs along the Dam Ditch.