Nature Authority Warns Against Illegal Harvesting Ahead of Sukkot Holiday

As the Sukkot holiday approaches, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) is intensifying efforts to prevent damage to wild plants and trees used for the festival. Authority inspectors will increase their presence and educational outreach in open areas, particularly those at risk of illegal cutting or uprooting. The INPA emphasizes that willow and date trees are protected by law, and their removal from the wild is prohibited. The public is urged to purchase materials for Sukkot, such as Sukkah roofing (schach) and the Four Species (arba minim), only from regulated and legal sources.

Yatir Shamir, Director of Enforcement at the INPA, stated, "Willow and date trees are protected natural assets by law, and harming them is forbidden. Due to development, construction of settlements and infrastructure, and a decrease in water flow in streams, their numbers in the wild have already diminished. Just before Sukkot begins, I remind the public that picking plants in the wild for use in the holiday tradition is forbidden. INPA inspectors are monitoring and guarding against damage and the picking of willows and date palms in open areas. The penalty for illegal picking can range from hundreds of shekels in fines to criminal prosecution. For the sake of nature and future generations, please obey the law."

The INPA notes that annually before the holiday, cases of branches being cut and wild plants being picked are discovered. Date palm fronds, used for schach, and willows, often found near streams and water sources, are among the most affected. The damage extends beyond the plants themselves, as picking and cutting can also lead to the trampling of other vegetation and habitat destruction. Repeated damage can hinder the recovery of trees and shrubs, sometimes taking years. The decline in wild willows is exacerbated by changes in wetland habitats, including development, infrastructure projects, and reduced water levels in streams.

The INPA also mentioned that some local and regional authorities distribute schach to residents before the holiday and recommends checking local authority announcements for details.