Distributaries and old river loops of the Ems are now separated from the river and current, and some have silted up. Reconnection to the ebb and flow by penetrating barriers not only facilitates the recreation of habitats, but also a weakening of the flow current. Opening and revitalisation could thus contribute to improved water quality, but primarily to the development of typical habitats of the Ems estuary. Such measures will be tested in Coldam and north of Tunxdorf.