Mountain biking. I love this sport. That’s why, after work, it’s time to get out into nature for an after-work ride! But there’s a sign indicating the business hours: I’m only allowed to ride until 7 p.m.. The reasons? Nature conservation, consideration for animals, game and hunting.

Understandable – but also quite frustrating. Wouldn’t it be easier if all the necessary people sat down at a table together with experts and developed a long-term overall concept with interesting after-work rides that are not critical from a conservation point of view, with a trail center close to the valley – rideable whenever possible – and cool steerable bike trails as well as hiking trails?

It would be good, but it wouldn’t be easy. The reasons? Many landowners, nature conservation, water rights, forestry and hunting interests, internal squabbles and stories, interpersonal issues ... Unfortunately, there oftentimes seems to be less common ground after such meetings than before they started. Or should one simply take a step back and forget one’s own grievances to arrive at a long-term solution?

I think the after-work round would be worth it.