ADVERTISING
New regulations for citizens, hunters and farmers will apply from April 1st
The Groß-Gerau district has published a new general decree regarding measures against African swine fever (ASF). Starting April 1, 2025, restrictions will be eased, affecting both the core zone and restricted zone 2. The district is thus complying with the guidelines announced by the state of Hesse at the beginning of March.
“Our well-coordinated measures since the ASF outbreak in June 2024 have proven effective and now allow for a gradual return to normality,” explained First County Councilor Adil Oyan. At the same time, he pointed out that the complete eradication of the animal disease could still take years.
Easing of restrictions for citizens
The requirement to stay on designated paths and the leash requirement for dogs are lifted with immediate effect for visitors to the forest. Bans on outdoor events and fireworks are also lifted. However, dog owners are still asked to observe the regulations regarding the breeding and nesting season.
Hunting is permitted again – with restrictions
Hunting wild boar, red deer, fallow deer, and roe deer is permitted again within the applicable closed seasons – with the exception of an area between the Rhine and the permanent fence. To further reduce the wild boar population, a bounty of €200 per wild boar is paid. However, the carcasses may not be sold; only up to five animals per year and hunter's household are permitted for personal consumption.
The hunting permit is based on the construction of numerous permanent fences to prevent infected animals from spreading to other areas.
Agriculture: Drone flights only needed in specific locations
There will also be relief in agriculture. Drone flights for checking for wild boar or carcasses will only be mandatory in the area between the Rhine and the fence. This measure can be dispensed with in the rest of the district.
Forestry can resume maintenance work
The new regulations also bring relief to the forestry sector. Necessary forest maintenance work is now possible again. "In recent months, our focus has been heavily on fence construction and carcass removal. Now we can finally return to the actual forestry work," said Klaus Velbecker, head of the Groß-Gerau Forestry Office.
The new general decree can be found on the district's website under Official Announcements: www.kreisgg.de
(DISTRICT OF GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSGG)
