FAQ Squirrel Forest Campaign

From time to time we receive enquiries about the Squirrel Forest Campaign. On this page you will find a list of questions and answers for quick reference. Do you have any more questions? If so, write to us!

Question: Which is the best way to sow tree seeds?

Answer:Using a trowel or small spade look for a spot where the so-called forest floor is clear and soft. Push the trowel straight into the ground until the tip reaches the mineral soil under the humus layer (undecomposed leaves, needles etc). Wiggle the trowel or spade backwards and forwards to widen the slot in the ground. Put two or three acorns or beechnuts into the slot and push the sides back together. Repeat at a distance of one or two paces.

Question: We’ve been told that we must only use “certified seeds”…

Answer: In Germany the commercial use of forest seeds is regulated by the Forstvermehrungsgutgesetz (FOGV) – law on the propagation of forest seeds – and, of course, these regulations are observed by the forest campaign partner as “landlord”. Although the Squirrel Forest Campaign is in no way commercial the local regional forester – as stated in the instructions – will act according to the regulations stipulated by the FOGV when deciding where the seeds may be collected and where they may be sown. All the foresters who are well acquainted with these issues tell us that collecting and sowing seeds within the boundaries of a forest district is always allowed as the FOVG does not pertain to this. Were that the case, every squirrel would be a lawbreaker… ;-))

Question: The press is coming to our Squirrel Forest Campaign Event. What about photos which are taken and then published? You always hear that you have to be careful about that…

Answer: Personal images are protected by law (e.g. in the U.K. the Data Protection Act) and generally the publication of such pictures requires the consent of the people in the photographs (§ 22 KunstUrhG). Nevertheless there are exceptions and individual rulings which are not easy to understand. However, in any case, § 23 KunstUrhG states that “the following images may be published or displayed without the required consent as stipulated in §22 …3. Photos or images of meetings, processions or similar events in which the persons displayed have taken part”. Well, in most cases all those participating and their relatives will be happy to have media coverage of their Squirrel Forest Campaign event. However, if in doubt, deal with this issue sensitively; if necessary discuss it beforehand with teachers and parents and come to a mutual decision on how to act.

Question: Some of the costs generated by a Squirrel Forest Campaign event are not so easily met. What can we do?

Antwort: During an economic downturn firms cut costs first by saving on voluntary expenses such as donations or grants to non-profit making events. There are, however, different ways of organizing the basic necessities for a Squirrel Forest Campaign event:

Buckets and spades: Most children and families have these or something similar (in the cellar, attic, shed, sandpit etc. Another alternative: The Forest Seeding Association has quite a lot of equipment which we are happy to lend you if logistics and dates can be coordinated. Just contact us!
The forest picnic: Children usually take a lunch box or sandwiches to school. Let the parents and children organize their own lovely picnic.
Transport to and from the location of the Squirrel Forest Campaign event: Quite often costs can be completely avoided if the site can be reached on foot from the school or kindergarten. If that’s not possible, ask the firm which runs the school buses. If they say they can’t offer free transport, try to negotiate a reduced price and share the costs among all the participants. Most parents are used to contributing a small sum towards their children’s school excursions.
Funding: It’s worth asking local organisations whose statutes and budgets incorporate supporting events which are in the public interest. The Lions or Rotary Clubs, for example, are usually willing to help. You’ll see that the Squirrel Forest Campaign is well liked and most people are only too happy to give their support!