Anoia has recorded the highest number of enforcement actions in Catalonia against illegal mastic shrub harvesting since new rules came into force on 1 April, according to the Department of Agriculture. Nine of the 17 operations recorded across the region have taken place in Anoia.
The rules were introduced to regulate the commercial use of mastic shrubs, which are in demand for ornamental, industrial and gardening purposes. Authorities say the pressure on this forest product can damage soil and hinder natural forest regeneration.
After Anoia, Baix Empordà and Maresme each recorded two enforcement actions. Barcelonès, Baix Llobregat, Garrotxa, Gironès, Moianès and Vallès Oriental each had one case. Of the 17 operations, 12 involved a single region and five covered more than one, which suggests some illegal harvesting is carried out across different areas.
In Rubió, Rural Agents seized 10 cubic metres of mastic shrub bundles this week. The material had been harvested without the landowner’s permission, without prior notice to the forest administration and in breach of the new rules on stem length and thickness. The company responsible was reported and the seized product was returned to the landowner.
Another operation took place in Castellolí on 23 May, where agents confiscated 8 cubic metres of mastic shrub bundles under similar conditions. Again, there was no landowner permission, no communication to the forest administration and no compliance with the technical limits. The company was reported and the material was returned to the property owner.
The new framework requires prior communication of harvesting activity, express authorisation from landowners and compliance with technical conditions, including a ban on uprooting and limits on the size and quantity of material taken. It also strengthens traceability across the supply chain, from harvesting to final sale. More Catalonia news
