In the past, the Swiss rivers were extensively straightened. In order to secure these unnatural river courses, small barriers had to be installed. On average, such an obstacle is found in the river every 650 meters. Although they look harmless, they are insurmountable for many fish.

Fish migrate to search for food, to reproduce or to seek shelter. If their path is blocked by obstacles, migratory fish such as eels, salmon or the common nose suffer in particular. Their populations have declined sharply in recent decades – in the case of Rhine salmon to the point of extinction.

Many obstacles are only relics from the last century. Today they have neither an economic value nor are they necessary for flood protection. We can remove them without disadvantages and give our fish back a piece of quality of life.

The dismantling of weirs and barriers creates connected and dynamic habitats. Numerous animal and plant species benefit from this, as do we humans. Living and diverse bodies of water provide clean drinking water, protect against flooding and are valuable adventure and recreation areas.