In 2022, a long-awaited project was brought to life. An old dam was removed, and a new fish-friendly rapid was built on the Kloostri River. This not only supports biodiversity and fish migration, but also creates a beautiful view – especially during high water.
For Kallaste Turismitalu, the Kloostri River is more than just a scenic part of our landscape.
It is part of our home, nature, heritage, and biodiversity. The river flows directly through our property, offering our guests peace, beauty, and a close connection with nature. We are proud to announce that after major restoration works, the river is once again open for free fish migration.
A Historic Fish River Comes Back to Life
The Kloostri River has been a vital spawning river since the time of Padise Monastery. For the monks of Padise, it was an everyday food source – offering sea trout, river lamprey, and other species. But over time, due to human activity – damming and sediment buildup – the river became unsuitable for fish.
In 2024, the Environmental Board, together with project manager Tauno Jürgenstein, carried out a large-scale restoration project. The goal was to restore the river’s ecosystem and reopen the natural migration routes for fish.
What Was Done?
The work took place from August to November. The Kloostri River was made passable again for migratory fish like sea trout and river lamprey. The total cost of the project was €331,200, largely funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. The work was carried out by the water construction company Nivoo.
During the project:
- Four dams and dam remains were removed (includin our dam)
- A culvert regulator was rebuilt to manage water levels.
- 550 m³ of sediment and mud were dredged from the riverbed.
- Around 500 m³ of stones and gravel were added to create spawning areas.
- A brand-new rapid was built near Kalju-lava – right on our property.
This key area now allows fish to pass the former dam site while maintaining pond water levels. All these actions help restore the river’s natural condition, boost biodiversity, and support the return of fish populations. First visible results – like young sea trout swimming toward the sea – may appear within three to four years.
Nature Is Coming Back – And We’re in the Middle of It
Our guests can witness this transformation up close. Morning coffee on the terrace, children playing by the river rapid, or peaceful walks along the banks – it all gains deeper meaning when you know a once-blocked river now flows free.
Perhaps we’ll even see a female fish use her tail to carve out a nest and start spawning – a natural miracle once only seen on rivers like the Keila. Now, we await this wonder here, on the Kloostri River.
Biodiversity Is Part of Our Story
Restoring the Kloostri River is more than just a technical achievement. It is a gift to our region and to future generations. At Kallaste Turismitalu, we believe nature and people can thrive together. The river flowing through our land now carries both ancient history and new life.
Come experience it for yourself – the Kloostri River flows freely once again.
Tekst põhineb Harju Elu artiklil: “Kloostri jõgi sai kaladele vabaks”