Russians Prohibited from Picking Favorite Berries: Risk of Financial Penalty or Legal Consequences
May 29, 3:09
Picking wild berries can lead to legal trouble, even a prison sentence, as common berries that resemble protected species can inadvertently be gathered. This cautionary message was shared by State Duma Deputy Sergei Kolunov.
Violating the prohibition on picking red book berries, such as cloudberries and lingonberries, which look similar to ordinary raspberries, can result in penalties such as up to four years in prison, a fine of up to one million rubles, or compulsory labor of up to 480 hours.
The Russian Forest Code prohibits the picking of red book plants, including not only the aforementioned species but also ginseng, juneberry, bilberry, small cranberry, and steppe cherry.
It's not just red book plants that are off-limits. The Russian Forest Code also bans the picking of any berries on specially protected territories like national parks, nature reserves, natural monuments, and natural sanctuaries.
Experts warn that many rare berries have common look-alikes. For instance, cloudberries resemble red raspberries but grow lower and have a distinctive "bony" structure. Lingonberries and bilberries, although not always included in the Red Book, are protected in some regions.
To avoid legal trouble, foresters recommend studying the Red Book of one's region before entering the woods, using identification apps, checking the status of the territory, and only picking common berries in allowed places.
According to surveys, 39% of Russians enjoy forest walks, while 23% regularly gather berries and mushrooms. However, many are unaware of the potential legal consequences.
A recent conflict over the gathering of berries and mushrooms in the Leningrad region highlights the relevance of the issue. Disputes over "foraging trophies" can escalate into serious conflicts.
The enrichment data suggests that laws and regulations regarding wild berry picking in Russia are influenced by environmental and conservation laws. Species listed in the Red Book are typically protected, and picking them could result in penalties. For the most accurate and updated information, it's advisable to consult local or national environmental protection agencies.
Maintaining one's lifestyle, it's essential to be mindful while food-and-drink foraging in Russia's woods, as picking certain berries may put one at risk of legal consequences and even imprisonment. Home-and-garden enthusiasts should know that picking berries in specially protected territories, including red book plants and other rare species, is strictly prohibited by the Russian Forest Code, carrying penalties such as prison sentences, fines, or compulsory labor.
