At the moment, given the weather conditions, it is a little “calmer around the Upper-Sûre Lake”, but there are still plenty of hikers, says Schmit, who has been the only ranger at the nature park for the past two years.
Guiding visitors and informing people of the area’s history is at the heart of his work. He also looks for solutions to problems on the site, and can most often be found outdoors.
Schmit said that the nature park is currently “not actively advertising” the lake or its beaches. Officials hope to attract those people more likely coming for a walk rather than swim in the lake or party on the beach. On warmer days the area usually draws more visitors than it can handle.
The lake is mostly frequented by “tourists on holiday in Luxembourg, but also by many day-trippers or even visitors who come to spend a few hours”, explained Schmit. Last year, 70% of the number plates on vehicles in the car parks were Luxembourgish.
The ranger’s job is also to keep things neat and tidy. Schmit indicated that noise, dirt, and illegal barbecues regularly cause problems. The vast majority of visitors are caring and respectful, he acknowledged.
Schmit went on to talk about the risk of forest fires around the lake. He said it is particularly high in times of drought, which is why the Grand Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS) is always on hand to take preventive action.
Water protection also remains key, as the reservoir nearby is used for drinking water. So far this year, blue-green algae, which caused problems in the past, have not yet been a problem at the lake.
