The current heat and dryness are increasingly affecting the Saarland forests. As a direct result, the danger to forest visitors from breaking branches and crowns has increased.
“We ask all forest visitors to walk through the forest with heightened awareness and increased attention. Keep an eye on the trees and absolutely avoid areas with many dead or dying trees. We are currently seeing increased branch breakage, especially in older beeches, but also in ashes and oaks,” says Environment Minister Petra Berg.
Although longer periods of rain were recorded this year, the drought damage accumulated from previous years could not be compensated. Consequently, the risk potential in the forests is increasing.
Even though branch or crown breakage due to drought is a forest-typical hazard, the Ministry of Environment and the SaarForst State Agency ask for increased vigilance when visiting the forest.
All information about the forest can be found at:
www.saarland.de/riwa
