2023-11-04 14:18:00
When we walk in the woods, and we are a mushroom lover, the temptation is great to take with us this plump porcini mushroom that we have just come across. But is this allowed?
When we travel in the woods, we sometimes have to stay on the paths… So, can we move away from them to pick one or another mushroom? In Wallonia, the legislation is clear, “a walker can find himself off the paths and trails for certain activities such as harvesting mushrooms, flowers and fruits. But it is necessary to have the prior agreement of the owner of the property. forest.”
In the case of national forests, which are owned by the Walloon Region, the harvest of mushrooms is authorized, under conditions. The latter must be done between sunrise and sunset and the maximum authorized quantity cannot exceed 10 liters per person. The authorization is suspended during the hunting season.
Mushroom picking
The well-kept treasure of Brussels
In Brussels, it’s a little different… Although the Soignes forest and the woods of the Brussels region alone have more than 900 species of mushrooms, making them ideal landmarks for amateurs, mushroom picking there is strictly prohibited. With more than two thirds of Brussels forest species being relatively rare, or even very rare, this is a preservation measure.
Flanders, for its part, also strictly prohibits the picking of mushrooms on its territory. In order to preserve biodiversity, but also… public health.
In any case, if you venture into a wood to pick mushrooms and you have doubts regarding the regulations in force there, check with your municipality or the Nature and Forests Department. Certain locations are subject to specific restrictions. Fines can rise up to 150 euros in the event of an infraction.
Getting started with picking
Natagora, the environmental protection association active in Wallonia and Brussels, offers different activities during the autumn season to learn more regarding the fascinating world of mushrooms.
In this context, Natagora organizes in particular “introductions to edible mushrooms”. The opportunity for novices, including us, to discover the mushrooms of our regions, alongside an experienced guide, like Vincent Louwette. On the menu for the day (from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.): stroll and discovery of some edible mushrooms; introduction to the characters of the main families observed; little tips to avoid the risk of confusion; rules related to good picking practices; and at the end of the day, a tasting of the mushrooms harvested during this initiation which will have been prepared collectively in advance.
Throughout the year, the environmental protection association offers lots of activities and events which aim to raise awareness among the general public of the importance of preserving nature and changing our behavior by that Sens. Bats, birds and butterflies from our gardens, bees, but also wild plants and botanical rarities… Natagora allows us to reconnect with the fauna and flora that surround us and to discover its many facets.
More information via the activities calendar on the site: www.natagora.be
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