Protection of coniferous trees was strengthened before the New Year in Khabarovsk Krai

In Khabarovsk Krai the preventive operation "Christmas Tree" was launched, during which forest guards will strengthen control over the felling of coniferous trees. The number of illegal logging operations increases before the New Year.

Specialists and police officers conduct raids, stop cars for inspection, inspect places of spontaneous sale of coniferous trees, writes IA AmurMedia with reference to the press service of the regional government.

Patrolling will continue until January 8 in all districts of the region, said Valery Sapunov, acting head of forest control and forest protection department of the regional Ministry of Forestry and Timber Processing. He noted that such an operation is carried out every year. So, in 2023 it was possible to reveal seven facts of illegal logging and seize 630 trees of coniferous species. The damage was estimated at almost 2 million rubles. Criminal cases have been initiated.

Independent harvesting of coniferous trees is punishable by a fine of up to 5 thousand rubles for citizens, up to 50 thousand rubles for officials and up to 500 thousand rubles for legal entities. If the damage exceeds 5 thousand rubles, the violator faces criminal liability.

Lessees of forest plots have the right to legally harvest New Year trees. As documents confirming the legality of harvesting, it is necessary to present a forest declaration, invoice, which was issued to the buyer by the tenant of the forest area, as well as the act of transfer of forest plantations.

Earlier, on November 19, it was reported that in Transbaikalia residents will be able to harvest their own pine trees to decorate their homes for the New Year holidays. The cost of a tree up to 3 meters high will be 28 rubles 90 kopecks. The conditions apply only to individuals who will independently go to the forest for cutting. To legally harvest a holiday pine tree, it is necessary to apply to the local forestry office and conclude a purchase and sale agreement. A copy of passport and TIN will be required.