Revitalization of the Sihl from 2026
The Sihl at Sihlwald is currently obstructed and ecologically impoverished. The canton of Zurich wants to revitalize this section of the Sihl together with the SBB to create diverse habitats for animals and plants again. The project will go on public display in June 2024.
More than a hundred years ago, many streams and rivers throughout Switzerland were straightened and dammed to protect them from flooding and to gain land. The formerly diverse and dynamic rivers and streams have become ecologically impoverished as a result. High-quality habitats for animals and plants are also lacking in and along the Sihl near Sihlwald. This is why the Canton of Zurich and SBB want to jointly revitalize an approximately 1.8-kilometre-long section of the Sihl near the Sihlwald SZU terminus and the Zurich Wilderness Park visitor center.
The revitalization is a joint project of the Canton of Zurich and SBB. It is part of the environmental measures as part of the new concession for the SBB's Etzelwerk hydroelectric power plant. The ewz naturemade star fund and the federal government are also making financial contributions. The costs are expected to amount to around CHF 14 million. According to the project management, construction is scheduled to start in 2026 at the earliest. The Zurich Wilderness Park Foundation welcomes the planned enhancement measures in the perimeter of the Zurich Wilderness Park for the benefit of biodiversity and park visitors. The foundation is a member of the project's advisory group.
You can find more information on the website of the Canton of Zurich.
