Dear readers,

The spread of invasive species such as the dreaded quagga mussel poses a serious threat to biodiversity, water quality and infrastructure, particularly in our inland waters. Quaggas can block water pipes, permanently destabilise ecosystems and displace native species. The problem is now well known and the consequences can no longer be dismissed even by the last sceptics. One thing is clear today: there is an urgent need for action - now!

In many regions, the authorities are currently examining the introduction of measures to curb the spread of these ominous invaders. In Switzerland, many cantons have already responded by introducing a so-called Ship Reporting and Cleaning Requirement (SMRP), which is particularly relevant for pleasure craft. The new ordinance is intended to ensure that boats that are transported between different bodies of water are thoroughly cleaned and inspected before entering the water at their new destination in order to prevent the further spread of invasive species. These measures seem sensible, as quagga mussels easily attach themselves to boats, drives or propellers and can thus be unintentionally introduced into new waters. In particular, the tiny larvae of the mussels are often transported along because they are barely visible to the eye.

However, the question also arises: what use are cleaning and control regulations if mussels have already colonised a body of water in large numbers? In such cases, the cleaning measures are only of limited help, as the population is established in the affected body of water. Lake Constance, for example, is particularly badly affected by the quagga invasion. The regulations are therefore a good instrument for prevention, but not a solution for waters that are already contaminated.

Instead, boaters and the responsible authorities must now work closely together to find sensible, regionally coordinated and, above all, promising solutions for all waters and areas. If it is not possible to combat the mussel invasion sustainably now, there is a threat of even stricter regulations and measures, perhaps even the closure of heavily affected inland waters, which would be tantamount to a de facto ban on all forms of water sports.

Sailors, surfers and motor boaters must therefore now adapt to the new rules and measures and actively support them, even if they entail additional restrictions and inconvenience. But research and science also have a duty. Above all, new solutions for the biological control of mussels are needed. It is quite possible that methods and applications will soon be presented that can reduce or perhaps even eradicate the invasive populations.

Combating the quagga mussel is therefore a complex problem that affects not only the authorities, but also water sports enthusiasts in particular. The measures currently being taken, such as mandatory reporting and cleaning of boats, are a step in the right direction, but much more effort and co-operation is needed to prevent the spread in the long term. Skippers must be aware that they are making an important contribution by complying with the cleaning and prevention measures. Solving the problem requires a holistic approach. We are all called upon!

Michael Good

YACHT editor

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