Small but perfectly formed: Ibach nominated for the River Pearl PLUS label

On Thursday, 18 September 2025, the WWF and the River Pearls Association handed the Ibach nomination trophy over to the municipalities of Himmelried, Zullwil, Nunningen and Fehren and the Picus Bird and Nature Conservation Association.

With its floodplains, springs and variety of habitats, the Ibach, an unspoilt stream in the Schwarzbubenland region of Solothurn, offers a valuable refuge for flora and fauna.. Crafted from a rock taken from the Ibach, the trophy reflects the ecological value and natural character of the watercourse.

The handover ceremony encourages the participating municipalities and local stakeholders to strive for certification with the River Pearls PLUS label. Certification with the label strengthens biodiversity, safeguards local recreation areas and supports the funding of specific protective measures. The participants used the subsequent round of aperitifs as an opportunity to engage in lively conversation on the next steps and the possibilities of such certification.

Pictured: Representatives of the municipalities of Himmelried, Zullwil, Nunningen and Fehren and of the Picus Bird and Nature Conservation Association together with the managers of the WWF and River Pearls Association.