Ennepe

The Ennepe is a river in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is a tributary of the Ruhr and gives its name to the Ennepe-Ruhr region and the surrounding Ennepe-Ruhr area. The river is part of the Rhine River basin and contributes to the watershed that feeds into the Rhine.

Geography and course

The Ennepe originates in the southern part of the Ruhr region and flows generally northward through the Ennepe-Ruhr area. It passes through the valley that bears its name and is closely associated with several communities in the region, including Ennepetal and Gevelsberg, before joining the Ruhr River near the city of Witten. A notable feature on the river is the Ennepetalsperre, a reservoir used for drinking water supply and flood protection.

Hydrology and use

The Ennepe has a relatively modest discharge compared with larger rivers in the Ruhr area but plays an important role in local water management and regional landscape. The river’s valley has historically supported small-scale industry and milling, leveraging the power of the flowing water. Today, the Ennepe is valued for recreation, scenery, and as part of the transit and drainage network that serves the surrounding municipalities.

See also

Ruhr River system; Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis; Ennepetalsperre.