The water quality at this site is an integrative signal of influences
of the upper Elbe stretches and the upstream located main
Elbe tributaries. Therefore, water quality measured here is an indicator
for the recent pollution situation of the Middle Elbe. Investigations
at this site are not only of regional interest. Their results
indicate the recent pollution potential for the lower Elbe and its
contribution to the Northern Sea. Moreover, it is possible and
important to set them in a general context of the pollution history
of the River Elbe.