Klingnauer Stausee

Klingnauer Stausee is a large reservoir in the Aargau region of Switzerland, created by a dam on the Aare River. The site includes open water, reed beds, wet meadows, and woods of willow and ash trees that support diverse habitats.

The reservoir was created in the 1930s when a dam was built to generate hydroelectric power and control water flow in the region. In 1990, the site was designated as a Ramsar wetland, receiving international protection status for its ecological importance.

The name Klingnauer Stausee refers to a man-made reservoir that blends into the landscape and provides habitat for wildlife. Visitors observe birds and experience the seasonal changes in how the site is used by different species.

The site is easily accessible near the towns of Döttingen and Klingnau, with walking paths along the shoreline for visitors to explore. A small cafe near the nature center provides a place to rest and watch the water and birds.

The reservoir has constantly changing water levels that create shallow zones and mudflats, which are especially important for ducks and migrating birds. This makes the site a crucial stopover point on major bird migration routes, with seasonal concentrations of hundreds of species.