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In 2015, JSC Latvian State Forests (LVM) registered several cases of illegally-tapped birch trees on territories managed by LVM. The applicable punishment can reach EUR 700, the company informed LETA.

Along with the warmer weather, people are beginning to collect birch sap, an activity closely monitored by LVM. Last week, LVM Security and Control Department operatives came across 22 holes in several birch trees. The perpetrator was established on March 23, and he has admitted his crime.

The offender initially claimed that the sap, found in XL garbage bags, was being collected for personal consumption. Previous experience shows that in one day it is possible to fill two buckets, which amounts to about 20 liters.

Evidence collected at the scene will be forwarded to the State Forest Service for processing an administrative offence for unwarranted damage to flora. The applicable punishment is EUR 70-700.

There are several prerequisites for collecting birch sap in order to keep the tree unscathed and in compliance with the law.

Just one tree can be tapped for private consumption on the territories run by LVM. The hole must be made at least 50 centimeters from ground and on a tree 40 centimeters in diameter; furthermore, it should not exceed 5 centimeters in depth as the sap flows under the bark.

If a resident wants to taps several holes, he or she must take care of payment according to LVM's price list. A sales contract is signed, and LVM specifies where the tree can be tapped to inflict the least damage. In order to receive such permission, residents are urged to contact the respective LVM authority that manages the particular territory.