In these times of confinement, it is not always easy to have peace ... in the forest.
This is the observation of walkers who roam the forest of Orleans (Loiret), and also that of the National Forestry Office, which observes an upsurge in wild rodeos, on motorbikes or in cars.
“Attendance intensifies, especially on weekends.
Motorcycles, quads and cars are freed more and more often from barriers and it is not uncommon to see them sink into the heart of the forest ”, says Thomas Wroebel, head of the territorial unit of Orleans at the NFB.
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As a result, nuisances are increasing, for pedestrians and bicycles who are sometimes brushed against by vehicles launched at full speed at the risk of causing an accident, but also for flora and fauna.
“These are fragile environments.
There are protected plants, rivers.
And for mammals and birds, coming out of winter is a sensitive period, ”adds Thomas Wroebel.
The ONF has therefore decided to step up checks. At the beginning of April, 2 large-scale operations mobilized 13 agents over a weekend in the massifs of Orleans and Ingrannes. Two bikers and a motorist were fined. Violators are liable to a fine of 135 euros on a road closed to traffic, and the fine can reach 1,500 euros if they travel off-road. What to dissuade the most recalcitrant, hopes the ONF, which counts on the fear of the gendarme to convince the owners of all-terrain vehicles to go driving elsewhere than in the forest.
