Angry Franconian mayor: "It's unbelievable!" - Trees intentionally damaged

Created: 08/17/2022, 19:26

By: Katarina Amtmann

One of the damaged trees in Nuremberg.

© Madlen Roick / City of Nuremberg

Trees are currently suffering from the heat, now they have been willfully damaged by unknown persons in Nuremberg.

“No prank,” said the mayor.

Nuremberg – The city of Nuremberg is shocked in a press release.

Trees were vandalized.

Nuremberg: Trees intentionally damaged - bark peeled off

Accordingly, on Monday (August 15) the public space service in Nuremberg (Sör) received reports that trees in the city park had been damaged.

These are old yew trees, “the bark of which was extensively injured and peeled off by one or more perpetrators.” A complaint has now been filed against unknown persons.

"No children's prank": Nuremberg's mayor appalled by tree damage

Mayor and First Sör Plant Manager Christian Vogel (SPD) is upset: "It's incredible!

Anyone who willfully damages trees in this way is deliberately depriving the trees of their natural protection and thus accepting the death of the tree.

This isn't just a kid's prank."

And further: “Our trees are already weakened by the persistent heat.

Together with many committed citizens, we ensure that the trees are given the support they need for healthy growth.

This is exactly why the behavior of such tree trespassers is not only outrageous, but must not be tolerated in the slightest and should have criminal consequences.”

Bark removed: Trees could die

In trees, water and nutrients are transported to the leaves via the pathways located inside the trunk.

There, the sunlight is absorbed and, with the help of other substances, converted into energy and other metabolic products that the tree can use.

These vital building materials are transported via the bark into branches, trunk and roots, as the city explains.

If you remove even half of the bark, the tree has no chance of surviving and dies.

The mayor hopes for the help of the citizens: "If you have observed the act or have information about it, please contact us directly.

Each reference is carefully and carefully checked.

We have also filed criminal charges with the police and I hope that those responsible can be held accountable, ”said Vogel.

Unknown people damage trees in Nuremberg

The Sör service hotline accepts information on (0911) 2 31 76 37 (Monday to Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

Information can also be provided via the contact form on the Sör website: www.nuernberg.de/internet/soer_nbg/kontakt.html

By the way: Our Nuremberg newsletter regularly informs you about all the important stories from Middle Franconia and the Franconian metropolis.

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Nuremberg: tree sponsors and foundation are involved

In the Franconian metropolis, around 2000 citizens are committed to the preservation and further development of the tree population by sponsoring a tree, plant bed or water.

The "Trees for Nuremberg Foundation" also supports tree planting in Nuremberg.

"Against the background of this commitment to more trees in the city, the wanton destruction of trees appears in a different light," says the city.

The city of Nuremberg now also waters trees with pool water

Creative ways are needed to get the heat wave under control, especially in the cities.

In Nuremberg, trees are now being poured with indoor pool water without further ado.

"Your support is very important": Mayor encourages tree sponsors

Vogel would therefore also like to send a signal of support to all those who are committed to urban trees.

"Don't be discouraged by such senseless acts.

Your support is very important.

I am pleased that there is such a strong movement from the citizenry towards more green in the city.

We need trees so that our city can remain livable in times of climate change.

Trees are like bio-air conditioners that give us shade in the summer and, through their evaporation, pleasantly lower the ambient temperature.”