Polish Forest Guard, assisted by other uniformed services, will conduct over 4,000 checks and issue fines up to 500 PLN for illegal sale of spruce and fir twigs during its annual ‘Stroisz’ operation, running until 2 November.
Operation “Stroisz” Overview
Since late October, the Forest Guard and cooperating services have spearheaded the annual “Stroisz” campaign in State Forests, ending on 2 November. The initiative tackles the yearly theft of large amounts of spruce and fir twigs, known locally as stroiszu, which are used for holiday decorations.
Economic Impact of Twigs Theft
Local authorities argue that stolen twigs necessitate re-growth of entire young forest segments, costing the state in both direct and indirect expenditures. Peddlers of legal twigs maintain documented proof of origin, which distinguishes them from illicitly sourced material.
Forest Damage from Illegal Harvesting
Forest officers report that thieves strip young firs of almost all twigs, often destroying several hectares of dense growth. One cubic meter of fir stroiszu can contain 600–1,000 twigs, meaning the extraction of a single batch involves the loss of thousands of trees.
Patrols and Surveillance Technology
Enhanced inspections target theft-prone zones and nearby roads, employing forest cameras, photo traps and drones. Joint patrols with police also deter poaching, littering, and illegal roadside traffic by motorbike and quad riders.
Penalties and Legal Measures
Each year the Forest Guard performs over 4,000 checks and issues around 500 fines up to 500 PLN for illegal sales. The Guard may also request courts to impose fines up to 5,000 PLN on offenders.