... this would be the blueprint. The waters of the Rotsee are ideal for competitive rowing. The lake's size and shape enable Olympic-style six-line racing over 2000 meters; its geographical position makes the course arguably the fairest in the world.

At the same time, the Rotsee is also a Nature Reserve with a rich variety of flora and fauna. Its shores are a year-round recreational area for large numbers of local residents.

How can all this best be combined? Lucerne Regatta Association, the City and Canton of Lucerne and the neighbouring town of Ebikon recently commissioned a study on “The Rotsee's Rowing Future“. Its results demonstrate that the majority of interests are mutually compatible. The study, however, underlines the need for clearly defined “activity“ and “tranquility“ zones, as well as for a number of infrastructure investments.

The common goal is clear: the Rotsee's future is for sharing. To maintain its natural beauty and diversity, environmental considerations will play a central role at all times. New regulations are now being drafted to put conservation and use on a firm legal footing.

Established during Rowing World Lucerne, the purpose of Naturarena Rotsee is to renew the lake’s rowing facilities while sustainably maintaining the natural surroundings and their public enjoyment. A February 2010 study listed 22 measures to achieve this goal. They fall into four main groups: Finishing Tower replacement, Rowing Centre reconstruction, pathway and shoreline landscaping, and the creation of rowing-related infrastructures.

The club is already making its mark. The most visible change is the removal of the almost 50-year-old Finishing Tower. Plans are in place for its replacement by a modern facility. Canton Lucerne is simultaneously working on a new Conservation Order for the Rotsee. This is based on the compromise successfully reached by rowing representatives and environmental organizations that will extend the lake’s permitted use for training and regattas.

Naturarena Rotsee is off to a good start. Its new President is Felix Howald, Director of the Central Switzerland Chamber of Commerce.  The local municipalities’ association LuzernPlus is paying for Cédric Habermacher’s work as a professional manager, and helps coordinates the projects. The club’s founding members also ensure a broad spectrum of support in business, tourism and rowing circles.