City asks residents for information regarding tree damage
The city of Darmstadt reports that several city trees have been deliberately damaged in recent weeks. Among the affected areas are the Wendelstadt park and the listed courtyard at Bessunger Straße 125.
The city is calling on the public to report any suspicious observations to the parks department or the police.
Damage in Kranichstein and Bessungen
According to the city, several trees in the Wendelstadt park have been repeatedly damaged. Apparently, harmful substances such as salt were deliberately introduced into the root area.
One tree has already died. Another has had to be replanted four times since 2020.
In addition, in April an approximately 80-year-old false cypress tree in the courtyard of Bessunger Straße 125 was severely damaged in the trunk and base area. It is currently unclear whether the tree can be saved.
City sees danger to climate and quality of life
Environmental officer Michael Kolmer described the incidents as a serious infringement on the city's green spaces.
“Urban trees are indispensable for quality of life, climate protection and biodiversity in our city. Every destroyed tree not only means financial damage, but also a loss for future generations,” explains Kolmer.
Urban trees purify the air, provide shade, and cool the urban climate. At the same time, replacement plantings involve significant personnel and financial resources.
Police called
The damage has been documented. According to the city, the parks department has already filed a police report and provided emergency care and secured the affected trees.
The Parks and Green Spaces Department accepts information by telephone at 06151 13-2900, by email at gruenflaechenamt@darmstadt.de or in person during office hours.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/dk)
