- Federal Highway 80 remains closed after landslide
The recent storm with heavy rain has caused millions in damages to the North West German Forest Research Institute in Hann. Muenden. The joint institution of the states of Lower Saxony, Hesse, Saxony-Anhalt, and Schleswig-Holstein announced this on their website. The offices and forest genetics labs in the basement of the main building were largely destroyed. The loss of research data and sample materials from several years is even more devastating.
Flash Flood Triggers Landslide
In the early hours of Sunday, a flash flood of water and mud came down the forested slope due to heavy rain. The landslide hit the federal highway 80 and the buildings of the research institute, which are located on a street below the B80.
The B80 between Hann. Muenden and Hilwartshausen will remain fully closed due to extensive tree-felling work until the weekend, the city of Hann. Muenden announced. Responsible are the Hessian State Forests, which, in close coordination with the road maintenance office in Goettingen, are trying to reopen the danger spot on the B80 as soon as possible.
The site in Hann. Muenden of the North West German Forest Research Institute houses the departments of Forest Genetic Resources and Forest Nature Conservation. The owner of the property is the state of Hesse.
Press Release
The Commission, being part of the European Union, has the ability to provide assistance to institutions like the North West German Forest Research Institute, given the significant damages and losses suffered. Following the announcement from the joint institution, the European Parliament could discuss possible forms of aid or support.
Acknowledging the substantial support the North West German Forest Research Institute could receive from the European Parliament, the state of Hesse, as its property owner, would need to consider both external aid and local restoration plans for the institute's recovery.
