Our colleagues from RTL recently spent a day shadowing the ranger during his work at the Upper Sûre Lake.
The 'Barrier Lake', as it is known to most Luxembourgers, is extremely popular during the summer months. This year's bathing season has already been marked by some amount of traffic chaos, overcrowded beaches, waste, as well as noise.
On Saturday, our colleagues from RTL spent the day shadowing ranger Tom Schmit at the Upper Sûre Lake. Schmit, who's tasked with monitoring the situation and reminding people of the proper code of conduct, has been having a busy summer thus far.
Ranger Schmit explained that the 27°C forecast for Saturday was not enough to draw a maximum amount of people to the lake: "Crowds really start appearing once we reach 28°C, and then our car parks no longer suffice. Today is optimal, there are a few clouds, and not much noise can be heard. No music is playing and people can comfortably read a book."
BBQ scorch marks in the grass still remind visitors of the chaotic situation from last weekend. "It is almost impossible to imagine what the situation looked like", explained Schmit, who lived through an entirely different workday that weekend. Heat and alcohol can be a dangerous mix, which is why the lake ranger is thankful for increased police presence on busy weekends.
Ranger Schmit also talked about the various disturbances that he has to take care of around the Upper Sûre Lake: "Music is a big issue since there are houses right behind the beach. One has to show a bit of understanding for the local residents who already get a lot of traffic noise from the other side. Then there is also smoke from small fires. It is my job to approach and educate people."
The lake ranger also provided information on how best to reach the popular summer spot by car. The car park right next to the shores of the lake is €3 per hour. However, free parking is available a bit further away at the 'Kéiler' car park in Insenborn, from where the lake can be reached with the help of a shuttle bus.
