National Forestry Agency reaffirms commitment to protecting cedar forests as a strategic national heritage

Wednesday 06 - 09:30

The National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting cedar forests, describing them as a strategic national heritage and a key ecological asset. The statement comes in response to recent media and social media claims alleging systematic deforestation and the existence of organized criminal networks.

Field investigations and monitoring operations

In order to clarify the situation, ANEF confirmed that extensive field investigations were immediately launched in coordination with regional services in the Fès-Meknès and Oriental areas. These operations are part of ongoing monitoring mechanisms involving local, provincial, and regional committees responsible for forest surveillance.

Authorities emphasized that these structures regularly track forest conditions, detect potential violations, and ensure timely enforcement actions when needed.

Clarification of reported incidents

According to ANEF, a significant portion of the circulated images and reports refer to older infractions dating back to late 2025, which had already been identified and legally processed at the time.

Regarding recent claims, investigations revealed only two isolated cases: one involving the illegal cutting of a single cedar tree, and another concerning a tree that had already fallen due to strong winds and snowfall in the region.

Challenging misinformation

ANEF stressed that presenting these isolated incidents as systematic deforestation does not reflect the reality on the ground. The agency highlighted its continuous monitoring system and cooperation with local partners to ensure forest protection.

Difficult terrain and enforcement challenges

The affected areas are located in mountainous and remote regions near provincial borders, making surveillance more complex, especially during winter conditions. These challenges can sometimes be exploited by illegal actors.

Despite these difficulties, ANEF field teams continue regular patrols and enforcement operations, supported by local authorities and the Royal Gendarmerie, to combat illegal exploitation of forest resources.

Collective responsibility and future strategy

ANEF reiterated that any violation of forest laws is treated strictly under existing legislation. It also called for responsible communication and avoided generalizations that could undermine ongoing conservation efforts.

The agency stressed that protecting cedar forests is a shared responsibility involving civil society, media, and local communities. It also confirmed that it will continue implementing Morocco’s “Forests of Morocco 2020–2030” strategy to strengthen sustainable forest management and ensure long-term preservation.