In September 2024, quagga mussels were discovered in Lake Zurich. This invasive non-native species causes significant damage to ecosystems and infrastructure. To prevent these mussels from spreading to other waters, special protective measures have been implemented.
The Canton of Zurich is introducing mandatory boat registration and cleaning requirements starting April 1, 2025. Anyone wanting to move a registered vessel from one body of water to another must report this in advance and have the boat professionally cleaned.
For stand-up paddle boards, canoes, rowing or inflatable boats, and other water sports equipment: clean thoroughly, carefully inspect, and completely dry after each change of water. The same applies to fishing and diving equipment.
For small boats without registration tags, stand-up paddle boards, canoes, inflatable boats, etc., as well as fishing and diving equipment, the following rules apply before every change of water:
SUPs brought to the Türlersee beach must be cleaned before being put into the water. This cleaning must be done at the SUP cleaning station of the beach. The way to the SUP cleaning station is signposted.
Even in water that collects in the boat hull or in water residues in equipment, barely visible organisms such as mussel larvae can travel.
Help prevent the spread of aquatic neobiota by following these rules and properly cleaning your boat and water sports equipment before each change of water.
Cleaning must be carried out in a location connected to the sewage system. Boats should ideally be cleaned with a high-pressure cleaner. Completely drain bilge and residual water at the original body of water.