Herbstmesse Makes Post-Pandemic Comeback; Earth Moves For Swiss; Boar Boom In Basel

News For 5 October 2021

The much anticipated news about whether Basel's Herbstmesse or Autumn Festival will take place has been announced.  Late last week, authorities confirmed that the 550th anniversary of the event will take place between October 23 and November 7.  A strict Covid prevention concept called "3G" will be in place at all fairgrounds, requiring any attendants over 16 years of age to carry their Covid Certificates.  Although no personal restrictions, such as mask wearing are required, it is recommended.

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An earthquake which registered 4.1 on the Richter scale, shook parts of the Swiss canton of Valais early this morning. Superficial damage was sustained to buildings and property, but no casualties have been reported in the aftermath of the earthquake that jolted the area near Arolla, at the foot of the Val d’Hérens. The earthquake could be felt in large parts of the Rhône Valley, from Villeneuve to Brig, as well as in the neighbouring valleys, according to the Swiss Seismological Service. Seismic activity is common in Switzerland, although most of it goes unnoticed by the population. Valais is the canton with the highest earthquake risk, followed by Basel and Graubünden.

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An increase of 70% in the wild boar population has been recorded in Basel by the authorities.  According to Holger Stockhaus, Baselland hunting and fishing administrator, the boom is a result of last year's abundance of the boars' favorite food: acorns.  Furthermore, because of the bounty, the boars stay in the forests evading the licensed hunters that typically keep the population in check.  Ultimately, Mr. Stockhaus believes milder temperatures, attributable to climate change, is making the forests more hospitable to growing populations.