Because Markus Brill was repeatedly slowed down by fallen trees and closed roads on his bike tours around his home town of Bad Sooden-Allendorf in Hesse, he came up with the idea of developing an app. The 31-year-old automation engineer spent six months tinkering with the project in his spare time - and then turned it into his master's thesis. It has now been ready since the end of 2020: the "ReportATree" app, which is available in the well-known app stores for iOS- and Android devices is available. Mountain bikers can use the app to report fallen trees, illegally dumped rubbish, forestry work or closed trails. This then benefits other bikers in the area, who are informed by push message and can view the entry on the map. "Around 100 people are currently using the app. But I think it will pick up significantly in the spring when the weather improves. I've had a lot of positive feedback so far, the app users really like the idea. Initially, I also received suggestions as to what could be improved," says Brill, who not only wants to appeal to bikers with his app, but also get local authorities on board. This is because district offices, foresters or the relevant authorities are often unaware of individual fallen trees that are blocking paths. "I'm currently in contact with several authorities, and the first foresters are also involved. One local forester here in particular is very impressed and is also giving feedback," says the app developer. In the best-case scenario, the responsible authorities will be given web access and can view fallen trees or reported cases in their area. But the app should also create added value in the other direction: for example, authorities could mark temporary road closures in the app, provide a reason and thus ensure greater understanding.
Markus Brill is still in the early stages with his ReportATree app. However, initial successes in his home country show that the idea has potential. "It's already got off to a good start here and I've already had initial discussions with authorities who want to use the entire reporting system," reports Brill. Brill has also already made contact with Komoot, Garmin and Wahoo. This is because the information from the app could be used to specifically avoid closed or blocked routes when planning a tour. When routing, GPS computers could warn of reported dangers in real time and offer detours - similar to the way car sat navs do in traffic jams.
