It all started in mid 19th Century from the Prussian demand for hay to feed the horses serving in cavalry and transport units. Previously-cleared stretches of land, which only needed proper irrigation, would be perfect places for hay production. It is for this purpose that the work started on taking advantage of the Brda as a vehicle to carry out the strategic plan of supplying the West Prussian garrison with feed. The plan’s main component was the water body in Zapora, bearing the Kashubian name of Lake Mylof. In fact it was nothing else but the broadened river bed of the Brda, which accumulated and dammed up the water. From here, it flowed in a thirty-kilometre-long channel that split into a number of arms, and on to the so-called Czerskie Łąki – the actual production place for the strategic hay. Because of its rarity, the most interesting solution used by the Prussian engineers was the aqueduct in Fojutowo – a crossing of two watercourses – the Czerska Struga below, and the Roman-inspired aqueduct of the Brda Channel above.

In time, the production of “horse fuel” was replaced by electrical power generation – the waters of Lake Mylof were used to propel the turbine of the still-active hydro plant. The local dam is one of the oldest structures of its kind in Poland.

The Great Brda Channel, with all its attractions and breathtaking views, and also its sluggish current and low depth, is an excellent place to start your canoeing adventure. No wonder you can see whole families sharing the experience of safe rowing in gorgeous surroundings.