In order to relieve the forests and reduce illegal trails, the city of Bonn has commissioned a feasibility study for a possible mountain bike trail on the Venusberg. This should meet the sporting demands of the riders and satisfy their desire for variety and challenge.

In the study, different variants of official mountain bike trails were examined, compared and evaluated. The aspects "environment and nature" and "planning" were particularly relevant. Based on the study, the city recommends a corridor to be released as a mountain bike trail. The impact on the environment and nature could be limited by a fixed location if the trail was accompanied by regular regulatory controls and a successful dismantling of illegal trails. In the next step, the study will go through the political committees. Citizens* and associations are also to be involved with citizen participation. Part of the planning will also be the clarification of the ownership of the affected forest areas.

Similar to heavily used illegal trails, the forest soil in the area of the frequently used trails becomes very compacted, so that rainwater can no longer be absorbed there and runs off superficially. Thus, the trees cannot utilize the water, which is problematic in view of increasingly frequent dry phases.

In addition, root damage can prevent trees from absorbing important nutrients, causing them to die. When trails are created, branches and smaller trees are often removed to allow the trail to be used. However, when branches are removed, it can cause permanent damage to trees. Natural regeneration in particular - the next generation of trees - are the losers here.

In addition, wildlife is disturbed: Some are so shy that they no longer pass through the frequently used and constantly changing trails, reducing their habitat. Most animals are nocturnal and crepuscular and need quiet protected areas, especially during the day. The wildcat, for example, is a particularly protected and disturbance-sensitive species in Bonn's forests that needs contiguous and undisturbed forest areas. Areas such as the Kottenforst and the Ennert as part of the Siebengebirge are even under European protection as part of the "Natura-2000" network of protected areas due to their special features.

The urban forestry service regularly dismantles the illegal trails, but this is not a permanent solution. In cooperation with the Office for the Environment and Urban Greenery, the City Regulatory Service and the Regional Forestry Office Forest and Wood, there are action days with controls - flyers are distributed to educate people and make them aware of the issue. Mountain bikers who ride on illegal trails will receive a fine of 55 euros.