Hikers in the French Alps have been cautioned by the authorities that they might face fines of hundred euros if they collect an excessive number of flowering plants while on their summer treks.
This news emerged after police conducted a weeklong investigation last month, during which they seized hundreds of génépi sprigs and edelweiss flowers.
According to local authorities, 20 hikers had been warned verbally and threatened with fines of up to €750 ($800+) if they continued to disobey the rules.
Loss of Native Flowers Harms Biodiversity
Despite the fact that not all mountain plants and flowers are legally protected, environmentalists warn that the widespread loss of indigenous flowers threatens the rich biodiversity that serves as the Savoie region's and France's natural heritage.
François Ravier, the prefect of the Savoie area in the southeast, remarked, "Throughout the summer, state services maintain a strong presence at the many exceptional natural sites in the department. The preservation of biodiversity is an overriding national objective, which can be achieved through high-quality information for hikers and targeted controls," as The Guardian reported.
Flowers from protected plants like lilies, cyclamen, and even arnica are illegal to collect in the Savoie. Flower harvesting from edelweiss plants is prohibited so that they may bloom and grow forever.
The fragrant génépi herb, which is related to sage and may be used to make a potent liqueur, is legal for visitors to pick, but only up to 120 sprigs each day. Day-hikers are restricted to collecting no more than 20 stems of daffodils, narcissus, or carnations.
Three Years of Low Yields
For the second year in a row, officials in the Vosges have prohibited the commercial harvesting of arnica plants, which are commonly utilized by pharmaceutical businesses, owing to dryness in the area. The departmental council reported that harvests had been disappointing for three consecutive years.
The lack of rain for nearly a month in the summer of 2023 is the main cause of poor blossoming. According to the guidelines in place for harvesting, no area is suitable for picking because sufficient flowering density is required.
The Vosges mountains are the traditional source for around 75% of France's wild harvest of this flower, which is highly sought after for its anti-inflammatory effects and employed in creating capsules, oil, gel, and cream.
For the sake of raising awareness, brochures detailing the numerous regulations imposed by Alpine locations are now being disseminated across the Savoie. Agents from the national forestry office, the national parks service, the biodiversity office, the military force, and local police are conducting these inspections. Helpless hikers who have no idea what they are permitted to pick have been urged to read the rules.
