RWTH: Reforestation of the Seven Springs after storm damage

Those responsible ask for your understanding for the accompanying protective measures and for considerate behavior in the natural monument in the west of Aachen.


On June 24, a localized storm hit Aachen. It levered two of the four huge poplars out of the banks of the Dorbach in Seffent and damaged other trees.

The two springs of the so-called seven springs in this idyllic area are a natural monument that citizens like to visit. The area belongs to the construction and real estate company NRW, but the gem is managed by the RWTH Aachen University. This must therefore also ensure the operational safety of the property. There is an ancient tree population here, it offers a sanctuary for numerous rare animal species. At the same time, the location must be kept free of hazards for people. Therefore, the two poplars that were still standing and some ash trees were checked for their stability with the participation of the lower regional authority in Aachen.

It turned out that five ailing trees had to be felled, and five others needed pruning. Access to this has been blocked since the end of June. Before working on the trees, we first had to wait until two families of woodpeckers flew out of the trees. Normally, according to the Federal Nature Conservation Act, such felling can only be carried out from October. However, the traffic safety obligation requires a minimization of the dangers. The popular area is now open to the public again.

However, further measures are planned. The piece of land belongs to the nearby forest on the ridge of the Wilkensberg. Since the seven sources are also designated as a forest plot, the forestry office issued a request for afforestation, which must be completed by spring next year. The afforestation must be protected to avoid damage. Therefore there will be fences for the next ten years to protect the young trees. Those responsible for the maintenance of outdoor areas at the RWTH hope that the nature-conscious citizens will show understanding. They also ask for consideration that the seven springs are a valuable habitat and are not suitable as an adventure playground. In this way, future generations can still visit the springs, which are still accessible.