In brief

• Forest rangers and police have launched nationwide checks on forests and cemetery stalls before All Saints' Day.
• Illegally cut spruce and fir branches used in wreaths can lead to fines or court proceedings.
• Buyers are advised to ask sellers for documents proving the legal origin of the material.

Nationwide checks target the wreath trade

The Forest Service and police have begun a coordinated nationwide operation called "Stroisz 26" (Mandat za stroik na grób? Ruszyła akcja "Stroisz 26". Kontrole przed 1 listopada nie ominą bazarów – Forsal.pl). Inspectors are checking not only woodland but also market stalls and sellers near cemeteries, where wreaths and grave decorations are sold in the days before All Saints' Day (Lasy Państwowe kontrolują stroiki przed Wszystkich Świętych. Za nielegalne gałązki grozi kara | Biznes Info – biznesinfo.pl). The Forest Service says the increased patrols will run until October 31 (Kupujesz stroik na Wszystkich Świętych? Zwróć uwagę na jedną rzecz – rmf24.pl).

The main concern is the cutting of branches from spruce and fir trees. Rangers say removing branches causes lasting damage, particularly to young trees, and can weaken plants so badly that damaged sections of forest must be replanted.

Penalties for illegal collection

Cutting branches without permission is an offence. Depending on the case, it can result in a fine or be referred to court. Officers note that low prices on wreaths are sometimes a sign that the material was taken illegally, and that buyers who pay for such goods may end up in trouble themselves.

What buyers should do

Anyone buying greenery for a grave is advised to ask the seller for documents confirming the legal origin of the branches. Stalls selling forest-derived decorations are included in the inspections, so sellers without such paperwork face the same risk as those cutting the material.