Blenheim Palace Lake

In April 2022, a significant restoration project began at Blenheim Lake’s Queen Pool. The primary focus of this project was the first dredging of the pool in over a century. Dredging involves the removal of accumulated silt, which consists of fine rock particles that settle over time. Normally, silt accumulates at a rate of one to two centimeters per year, but during severe storms, it can reach up to 20 centimeters.

The lake had experienced a substantial build-up of silt, causing the water depth to decrease significantly. Currently, the water depth is only 30 centimeters, whereas it should be around two meters to support the existing ecosystem and the creatures that depend on it.

To undertake this crucial restoration work, Blenheim Lake enlisted the expertise of Land & Water, a renowned wet civil engineering firm specializing in waterway maintenance and enhancement. Their experienced team is responsible for removing approximately 300,000 cubic meters of silt from Queen Pool. Charlie Oakes, the Project Manager at Land & Water, highlights that their chosen methodology aims to protect the lake bed as much as possible during the dredging process. They have even commissioned specific equipment for this project, ensuring the preservation of the lake bed and its delicate ecosystem.

This dredging project at Blenheim Lake’s Queen Pool is a vital step in restoring the lake’s health and maintaining its ecological balance. By removing the excess silt, the lake will regain its intended depth, supporting a thriving ecosystem for the benefit of the creatures that rely on it.