Care, Prevention, and Monitoring: Summer Management of the Aesthetic Forest
During the current fire season, Philodassiki has carried out extensive vegetation clearance in the Mt. Hymettus Aesthetic Forest, focusing on the removal of dry grasses and flammable ground cover from high-risk areas. The work has been concentrated along the main paved road network of the forest, with clearing widths of 1.5 to 3 meters on each side, as well as along key forest roads, footpaths, and walking trails. Special attention was given to areas with increased visitor activity or proximity to infrastructure, such as the wider area around the Kaisariani Monastery, the Historical Olive Grove, the slopes of the Heridanos stream, the Kaisariani cemetery perimeter, the old landfill site, the hill of St. John the Baptist, and the recreation area of St. George Koutalas, among others.
These clearing efforts aim to reduce the risk of wildfires – especially those caused by human negligence, which remains the leading cause of forest fires. All interventions are carried out with great care to preserve the natural aesthetic and visual integrity of the landscape.
In parallel, the Philodassiki team continues to water young trees planted earlier this year, following a targeted plan to ensure their survival during the dry summer months. Regular watering during periods of prolonged drought is critical, particularly for newly planted saplings.
Work has also begun on managing dead and dried-out trees, which have appeared either isolated or in clusters throughout the forest, due to consecutive years of drought and extreme summer temperatures. These trees are being removed primarily for preventive reasons – such as minimizing the spread of bark beetles and other wood-boring insects. For safety reasons, these operations are paused during the high summer season and will resume in the autumn.
It is important to note that dead biomass is not removed entirely. In selected areas, standing or fallen dead trees are deliberately preserved as “islands” of biodiversity, providing shelter for wildlife, contributing to natural nutrient cycling, and helping to protect the soil. This approach has been part of Philodassiki’s strategy since the 1970s, when designated non-intervention zones were established in areas like Kalopoula and Koutalades. The goal is to support the gradual ecological "maturation" of the forest and enhance natural processes within this semi-artificial ecosystem.
All actions are guided by long-standing experience, scientific planning, and ecological expertise. For Philodassiki, the goal is not just a "clean" forest appearance, but the creation of a truly functional, safe, and vibrant ecosystem, one that combines environmental protection, cultural heritage, and opportunities for recreation for all visitors.
As part of our fire prevention efforts, two fire lookout stations are staffed daily throughout the official fire season (May 1st to October 31st). The extended presence of trained fire-watch personnel – especially during the most high-risk hours of the day – ensures timely detection of smoke or fire and constant monitoring of sensitive areas for any suspicious activity, playing a crucial role in wildfire prevention.
The Mt. Hymettus Aesthetic Forest remains a living space of nature, learning, and contribution. Every action taken is carefully designed to preserve the delicate balance between protection and the sustainable enjoyment of this unique forest by all.
