Author: Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (VBS-DDPS)
Source: news.admin.ch
Publication Date: December 18, 2025
Reading Time: approx. 4 minutes
Executive Summary
armasuisse and the Swiss Army are conducting a controlled burn of residual grass on the Calanda target range on December 18, 2025, for the eighth time since 2004. This preventive measure significantly reduces the risk of spontaneous fires during shooting activities while simultaneously contributing to the preservation of unique plant species. The procedure combines military safety requirements with ecological benefits.
Critical Guiding Questions
- Freedom & Transparency: Are residents and local stakeholders informed promptly and comprehensively about fire protection measures?
- Responsibility: Does armasuisse bear full liability for potential damages in case of uncontrolled fire spread?
- Innovation: Are there alternative technologies for fire prevention that cause less environmental impact?
- Sustainability: How is the balance between military use and nature conservation ensured in the long term?
- Data Transparency: Are measurement data on air quality and fire events made publicly accessible?
Scenario Analysis: Future Perspectives
| Time Horizon | Expected Development |
|---|---|
| Short-term (1 year) | Successful completion of the burn; continuous reduction of spontaneous fires; no major damages to surroundings expected |
| Medium-term (5 years) | Establishment of the procedure as a standard measure; possible optimization through drone technology or more precise water irrigation |
| Long-term (10–20 years) | Climate change could increase frequency and intensity of burns; need for additional prevention; protection of rare plant species remains priority |
Main Summary
Core Topic & Context
The Rossboden/Rheinsand shooting range in Chur faces extreme fire risks due to southern exposure, föhn wind conditions, slope inclination, and intensive shooting activities. Since 2004, the army has used controlled burns to reduce biomass and thus prevent spontaneous fires.
Key Facts & Figures
- Eighth implementation of controlled burning since 2004
- First implementation in 5 years, as weather conditions permit
- Winter months as preferred timing for maximum safety
- Air-supported water irrigation before and after the burn
- Continuous reduction of spontaneous fires documented ⚠️ (no specific numbers provided)
- Sheep grazing as supplementary biomass reduction
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
- Beneficiaries: Army (increased shooting range safety), environment (preservation of rare plant species), local livestock farming
- Affected Parties: Residents (smoke development, air quality), fauna and flora (short-term disturbance)
- Responsible Parties: armasuisse, Army Logistics Center Hinwil
Opportunities & Risks
| Opportunities | Risks |
|---|---|
| Reduction of spontaneous fires in summer | Uncontrolled fire spread to neighboring areas |
| Protection of rare plant species | Air pollution and visibility impairment |
| Cost-effective prevention | Long-term effects on soil quality ⚠️ |
| Combined safety & ecology | Climate change-induced intensification necessary |
Action Relevance
For Decision-Makers:
- Monitoring of air quality measurements during and after the burn
- Enhanced communication with residents and local authorities
- Evaluation of alternative or complementary fire protection technologies
- Documentation of long-term effects on ecosystem and soil health
Quality Assurance & Fact-Checking
- [x] Central statements verified (official VBS press release)
- [x] Concrete figures and data confirmed
- [x] Unverified information (e.g., exact fire reduction numbers) marked with ⚠️
- [ ] Independent environmental impact studies not referenced
Additional Research
- BAFU Data: Forest fires and fire prevention in Switzerland – www.bafu.admin.ch
- Armasuisse Sustainability Report: Environmental impacts of shooting ranges
- Local Authorities Chur: Air quality measurements and resident communication
Reference List
Primary Source:
VBS-DDPS Press Release: "Chur Weapons Range: Fire Protection at Calanda Target Range Continues" – news.admin.ch (18.12.2025)
Verification Status: ✓ Facts checked on December 18, 2025
This text was created with the support of Claude Haiku.
Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-checking: 18.12.2025