Where did the necessary knowledge come from?
We have already been busy since 2012 to accumulate as much information as possible to be able to execute this project successfully.

We have asked students from several universities and colleges to help solve issues concerning the buoys and the trees so we could design a prototype.

With the help of partners like Mercon Steel Structures we were able to launch two prototypes in the RDM harbor in 2014.

Will the trees survive?
Yes indeed. Research was done by students of the Van Hall Larenstein College as to which tree could survive best considering factors like wind, temperature, billow and living in a buoy.
After an adjustment was made to the buoys the elm showed the most promising. Students of the TU Delft (Technical University Delft) studied the technical aspects as to how the tree could stand upright in the water and endure the Dutch climate.

Together with Mercon Steel Structures a first prototype was constructed in 2014 and after a trial period Barendrecht GKB constructed a second prototype.

These prototypes have been trial bobbing in the RDM harbor in Rotterdam and were closely monitored so we could find out which prototype came out best, practically as well as esthetically. In the end the second one was chosen.

How are the trees watered?
A reservoir containing 600 liters of water is constructed at the bottom of each buoy providing the required water for them to survive.

Depending on the weather the Water Boat of Water Company Evides will water the plants four times a year.

On top of each reservoir lies a cloth covered with a layer of sand making it possible for the trees to obtain water through capillary function just like in normal soil.
A gauge in a tube which rises and drops by means of a recycled PET bottle indicates the water level.

How long will the Forest adorn the Rijnhaven?
For a minimum period of five years but can be stretched to a maximum of ten years.

Will mothership produce any more water projects?
The Bobbing Forest is part of a large scale shore project.

Together with Stichting RiverArt, Mothership will realize several artworks along the shores between Rotterdam and Dordrecht.

More information on this project can be found on www.oeverproject.nl