Natural reserves put to the test by drought (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Swiss wetlands have been hit by a severe drought
• In some areas, the wetlands have dried up completely
• Pro Natura's natural reserves have been put to the test

Key facts

• What: Summer drought that has affected wetlands and watercourses
• When: Summer 2024
• Where: Wetland areas in Switzerland, including Rothenthurm (SZ) and Balmoos (LU)
• Who: Pro Natura

This summer's heatwaves have put Swiss natural reserves to the test. The drought has particularly affected wetlands, watercourses, trees, and lakes, Pro Natura reported today.

Effects on flora and fauna

The consequences were particularly evident in the Rothenthurm (SZ) wetland area. "I have never seen the wetlands this dry since I took on the position in 2009," says Bastien Amez-Droz, project manager at Pro Natura, quoted in a statement.

The Svitto Forest Office, in collaboration with Pro Natura and some local construction companies, had carried out regeneration work to restore the water retention capacity. According to Amez-Droz, these areas remained wet at least until August, allowing dragonflies to lay eggs and newts to rest.

In the Balmoos (LU) high bog, the water level has dropped by 15-20 centimeters compared to normal. Even in this case, the worst could be avoided: "Without the renaturation work carried out last autumn, there would have been no more free water this summer," Amez-Droz continues.

In some Pro Natura natural reserves, such as in Martinet (JU), the brooks have completely dried up. In other regions, their flow has decreased, but the water has not disappeared, as in the protected areas of Gitzitobel (LU) or La Chaux-de-Brenleire, near Vanil Noir (FR).

…

Operational details

Analysis of the effects of drought

The summer drought had a significant impact on Swiss nature reserves, putting local flora and fauna at risk. Swamps, in particular, have been hit hard, with water levels falling to critical levels in many areas.

Effects on the forest

As for the state of the forests, it is very difficult to draw conclusions: only in one to five years we will see how many trees have survived, survived or are dying. Pro Natura considers the restoration of rainforests a "promising solution in the face of climate warming".

Mitigation measures

The authorities have taken several measures to mitigate the effects of the drought. These include works to regenerate marshes and peat bogs, which have made it possible to keep the areas humid and promote animal life.

Impact on tourism

The drought has also had a negative impact on tourism, with many nature reserves being closed to the public to ensure the safety of animals and plants.

Future prospects

Authorities are evaluating new strategies to address the challenges of climate change, with a particular focus on restoring natural reserves and sustainably managing water resources.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

Actions to be taken

To address drought, it is important to adopt water conservation and nature reserve regeneration measures. Local authorities and organisations such as Pro Natura are working to implement renaturation projects that can help restore the ecosystem.

Tips for residents

Residents are encouraged to reduce the use of water for gardening and to report any instances of swamp drainage. It is important to be aware of the importance of natural reserves and their role in the management of water resources.

Useful tools

For more information and calculation tools, you can visit our calcolatore di imposte to get an idea of your expenses and tax obligations. In addition, you can consult the section dedicated to the costo della vita to get an idea of the daily expenses and costs of maintaining the nature reserves.

Source: swissinfo.ch