Oak processionary moth: Caterpillars in Spreewald create difficult situation for holiday region

The popular German tourist destination of Spreewald is experiencing significant disruption as several waterways have been closed due to an infestation of the oak processionary moth. This situation is particularly challenging as it occurs during the peak summer holiday season, a critical time for the region's tourism industry.

Transport Minister Robert Crumbach described the closures as necessary due to the "danger to life and limb" posed by the caterpillars and their toxic hairs, which make the waterways unsafe. The moth's proliferation has been exacerbated by climate change and warm temperatures, according to Environment Minister Hanka Mittelstädt. The closures are directly impacting local businesses, with paddleboat rental operators reporting restricted operations and tourists canceling their stays.

Authorities are undertaking urgent measures to address the problem. Forestry workers, clad in protective gear, are conducting securing operations on affected trees along the waterways. The plan is to gradually reopen the affected sections as these safety measures are completed. Environmental Minister Mittelstädt indicated that a large-scale use of biocides to combat the caterpillars is being considered for the following spring, with data collection on the infestation across Brandenburg underway until autumn.

The oak processionary moth's caterpillars possess irritating hairs that can cause severe health issues upon contact, including skin irritation, intense itching, rashes, eye irritation, and respiratory problems like coughing and asthma-like symptoms. While the closures affect approximately 45 kilometers of the Spreewald's 1,600-kilometer network of waterways, the impact on the region's tourism and the safety concerns for both residents and visitors necessitate these drastic measures. The authorities aim to balance public safety with the economic needs of the vital holiday region.

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the step is nevertheless necessary, «because there is a danger to life and limb, because the waterways are simply no longer safe».