The Easter holidays are here and with them beautiful spring weather. The perfect opportunity to take a trip to the urban forest. But especially during these days, special rules must be observed here - also, but not only because of the corona virus. Rosemarie Heilig, Head of the Department of the Environment, implores everyone to keep the necessary distance from their fellow human beings, even in the great outdoors: "We cannot and do not want to prohibit the people of Frankfurt from enjoying the city forest. But remember, even in the city forest, the minimum distance of 1.50 meters and the maximum group size of two people apply, as long as they do not belong to the same household."
It's also important to note that dodging undergrowth is absolutely taboo: "Please stay on the trails! The urban forest is an important habitat for many native animal and plant species that react sensitively to disturbances," appeals Tina Baumann, head of the Urban Forestry Department at the Parks Department. In addition, many animals are just having offspring, for example bird species that build their nests on the forest floor. That is why dogs must be kept on a leash. Unfortunately, far too few dog owners adhere to this - but perhaps now is a good time for everyone to show some common sense towards people and nature.
Walkers should also pay attention to the acutely high risk of forest fires. Forest soils and ground vegetation are very dry. Remnants of last year's autumn leaves and dry, sometimes resinous branches from the treetops provide highly flammable material. For this reason, the Parks Department asks forest visitors to exercise the utmost caution and to behave carefully. Even a discarded cigarette butt can be the trigger for a fire in the city forest! But let's be honest: the healthy air of the forest is much better enjoyed without a cigarette butt in your mouth, isn't it? Smoking can be then yes again at home.
All citizens are asked to keep the rescue access roads at the forest entrances free and not to block with vehicles. Foresters from the Parks Department are currently paying special attention to the fire danger. The public is asked for increased vigilance. Anyone who discovers a forest fire or a source of danger must immediately call the emergency number 112 or inform the nearest district forester's office.
