The study shows that many streams are nearly 'dead,' as emphasized in a new book on biodiversity, published by the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL). The book highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity to maintain healthy ecosystems.
In the majority of the Swiss streams examined, researchers from the ETH Water Research Institute (Eawag) found hardly any small living creatures and microbes. The scientists studied a total of 99 rivers. Many have “considerable deficiencies in their ecological condition” and can only limitedly fulfill their function as habitats for animals,
The Swiss cantons recently concluded in their own report that in the agri-industry, the “Plant Protection Products Action Plan” is on track. “The measures taken by agriculture have reduced the risks to the environment,” wrote the Federal Council. But according to the scientists, it is clear that many small streams and the animals living in them are still not doing well.
“We know we have major problems, especially when it comes to intensive farming,” says Roberto Zanetti, president of the Swiss Fishing Association. Worrying is the finding that in many small streams there are hardly any insect larvae left. “These small creatures are important food for the fish.” Zanetti points out that many populations in Switzerland are in sharp decline and are highly endangered.
Swiss farmers are unhappy with the new findings of the researchers. SVP parliamentarian Alois Huber is vice-president of the Swiss Farmers' Association (SBV) and a farmer himself. “We are certainly not innocent,” says Huber. But it is too easy to blame the farmers. In fact, according to him, agriculture has made great progress in recent years. Nowadays about half of the grain in Switzerland is grown without the use of herbicides, he says.