The Department of Forestry is issuing reminders to the public on the occasion of the Ash Monday holiday (3/3/2025).
In a statement, the Department recommends that the public, when going out into the forests and countryside, avoid cutting or uprooting wildflowers and shrubs, since many of them are strictly protected, while some may be endemic and in danger of extinction.
He also urges the public to keep the area clean, to pick up all the trash they create and place it in the trash cans or take it with them. “If we leave it even in plastic bags, it will be scattered by stray dogs, cats and foxes,” he adds.
It is emphasized that lighting a fire anywhere in the countryside is prohibited except for the preparation of food within specially permitted and arranged areas located in organized picnic and camping areas. Lighting a fire within state forests or within 2 km. of their edges constitutes an offense, which according to the Forestry Law of 2012, is punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50.000 or both.
Additionally, the Department of Forestry informs the public that in some areas pine trees are being attacked by the pine beetle. The public should be particularly careful, avoid sitting under or near infested pine trees and avoid coming into contact with the insect's caterpillar. Anyone who comes into contact with the insect's caterpillar or its nests and develops a skin problem should seek medical advice and care, the announcement concludes.
