Filenews 20 April 2022
In recent years, the phenomenon of illegal felling of trees by some mainly young people has been observed, with the intention of burning them in traditional Labratzia, which is an offence.
According to the announcement of the Department of Forests, for the cutting of forest and some ornamental trees, wherever they are located, a written permission from the Department of Forests is required. According to forest law, illegal cutting of trees is punishable by a fine of up to € 5,000 or imprisonment up to one year or with both penalties combined.
At the same time, the Department called on the Local Authorities, the organized groups and the sensitized people to immediately report to the local forest offices or the Police any incident of tree cutting, so that it is examined and the offenders are prosecuted.
Also, due to the grassland, and the rise in temperature, the risk of explosion and spread of fires is increased, so special attention is required from everyone. Particular attention is required from the owners of country houses near forest areas as well as from farmers during their various activities both in holiday homes and in the countryside in general. The use of fire and tools or agricultural machinery that produce sparks or flames should be avoided altogether. Also, the throwing of lit cigarette butts or matches during movement in the open air and forest areas is prohibited.
It is emphasized that lighting a fire anywhere in the countryside is prohibited – except – for the preparation of food within the specially allowed and arranged areas located in organized excursion and camping areas. Lighting a fire in state forests or at a distance of 2Km from its outskirts is an offence which, according to the Forests Law of 2012, is punishable by imprisonment up to 10 years or by a fine of up to €50,000 or both penalties combined.
In addition, the public is urged to avoid cutting or grubbing up wildflowers and shrubs during their outings in the forests and the countryside, since many of them are endemic or threatened with extinction and therefore strictly protected.
Finally, anyone who notices smoke or fire, in or near the forest, is kindly requested to inform without any delay the nearest Forest Station or to call 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112.
