Damage to nature and danger to animals during the breeding and nesting season
Illegal motocross rides have been occurring repeatedly in the wooded area near Crumstadt for several weeks . According to the town of Riedstadt, unknown riders are using narrow forest roads and natural paths outside of official tracks as unofficial racecourses.
Paths badly damaged
The consequences for the forest are significant: numerous paths are now badly damaged. Deep tire tracks crisscross the forest floor, vegetation areas have been destroyed, and in some places the topsoil has been eroded.
As Gerry Assmann from the environmental working group reports, many paths are hardly usable for walkers anymore. Especially when it rains, they turn into muddy ruts.
Animals are particularly at risk
The situation is particularly critical because the incidents are occurring during the breeding and nesting season . During this period, wild animals and birds are especially sensitive to disturbances.
The noise and the driving off-road disturb animals. In the worst case, they abandon their nests or young. A local hunter reports several instances of deer being startled and abandoned breeding sites.
Ground-nesting birds, whose nests are well camouflaged on the forest floor, are particularly at risk from heavy vehicles.
Driving in forest areas is prohibited
The city points out that driving in forested areas outside of designated roads is strictly prohibited. Violations can be prosecuted administrative offenses or criminal acts
Furthermore, drivers face a significant liability risk in the event of accidents or damage caused to nature and roads.
(RIEDSTADT – RED/PSR)
