reed mowing Castrisch

The intervention in the management of the wetlands has now become an integral part of the development of the biotope. The annual mowing of the reeds makes it possible to keep the stretch of water free of plants and to ensure that it does not turn into a wet meadow. This intervention allows various amphibians such as frogs, toads, newts, etc. to thrive in their habitat.

The reeds grow very quickly when conditions are ideal and therefore need to be contained so that they do not displace other plant and animal species. For this reason, Pro Natura Graubünden commissioned Naturnetz to clear the thicket of reeds at the Castrischweiher pond. In total, around 3,000 kg of plant material was disposed of in a trough on site.

During the operation, the volunteers used waders to get into the floodwater, a special brush cutter for mowing underwater and an inflatable boat to facilitate the removal of the material. Despite the cold November days, the operation was successfully completed within a week.