Outdoor bouldering in the Frankenjura: Concentrating educated visitors or reducing visitor numbers by restricting access to information?

In the Frankenjura, a famous climbing area in Germany, outdoor bouldering is a relevant topic that receives ambiguous interest and attention. The sport’s popularity is growing worldwide, and new bouldering areas are continuously explored and developed, indicating the need to deal with consequences for the environment. Bouldering can represent a threat for ecosystems. It equally has the potential to lead to social conflicts. The current local management strategy, called Boulderappell (Regierung von Oberfranken 2014), suggests 12 best practice recommendations for boulderers attempting to reduce visitor pressure and conflicts. Aim of the study was a) to analyse concerns and perspectives on the Boulderappell and b) to examine the acceptance and the compliance of outdoor boulderers with the Boulderappell. 

Literature, expert interviews and field observations provided qualitative data to identify concerns and opinions regarding the management strategy while a survey in three bouldering gyms provided quantitative data revealing attitudes and perceptions of the bouldering community. 

Certain deficiencies regarding a respectful bouldering practice became obvious. Negative impacts on protected species are a major concern accompanied by the fact that communication and information about bouldering is currently rated as difficult. A publication of bouldering areas, which is not recommended according to the Boulderappell, could contribute to awareness-raising. It is however very likely to enhance the bouldering activity in the Frankenjura and assumed to bring other challenges and conflicts that require new management implications. Solely focussing on avoiding an increasing bouldering activity to prevent conflicts, is predominantly not approved as a sustainable approach. There is agreement that communication and education about responsible bouldering practices need to be strengthened.

Regierung von Oberfranken (Ed.) (2014): Kletterkonzept für den gesamten Nördlichen Frankenjura. Naturverträglich Klettern im Naturpark Fränkische Schweiz - Veldensteiner Forst.