Inspections cover 9 forest ecology management centers and protected trees through end of June to head off risks from heavy rain and strong winds
The Korea Forest Service has moved to identify and eliminate hazards at forest facilities and protected trees ahead of the full onset of the rainy season, aiming to keep the public safe from heavy downpours and strong winds.
The agency announced Monday that it will conduct safety inspections through the end of June at nine forest ecology management centers — including the one at Jeombongsan (Gombaelyeong) — as well as at designated protected trees. With climate change driving more frequent bouts of intense rainfall and strong winds, the risk of damage to forest facilities and protected trees has grown. Officials said the inspections are intended to catch problems early and take corrective action before harm occurs.
At the forest ecology management centers, inspectors will focus on the condition of trails and drainage channels within managed forest areas. They will also check that signage and visitor amenities vulnerable to strong winds are properly secured, and will carefully examine trees near trails that could pose a danger to visitors.
For protected trees, local governments — the primary management bodies — will lead intensive checks for trunk cracks and decay, soil erosion around root zones, and branches at risk of falling. Authorities plan to guide local governments in carrying out any necessary measures to minimize potential damage.
"Extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall during the rainy season are occurring more frequently due to climate change, making thorough advance preparation essential," said Park Yeong-hwan, director of the Korea Forest Service's Forest Environment Protection Division. "Through these safety inspections, we will identify and address risk factors in advance, and do our utmost to protect the safety and property of the public."
kwonhl@heraldcorp.com
