Christmas tree markets in the Vitebsk region will open on December 21, a BELTA correspondent was informed by the Vitebsk State Production Forestry Association (PLHO).
In total, forestry enterprises of the northern region plan to sell about 50 thousand New Year trees. For the convenience of the public, the operating hours will be extended as much as possible. The range of outlets will traditionally include fir trees, pines, as well as Christmas tree bouquets and potted fir trees. The latter were in high demand among the public last year, so their sales volume is planned to be increased almost threefold. On average, the cost of a New Year tree up to 1 m will be Br10, 1-2 m - Br12, 2-3 m - Br17, 3-4 m - Br30.
In the pre-New Year period, raid work aimed at preventing illegal felling of New Year trees becomes relevant for state forest protection workers. Forest patrols will be organized near settlements, roads, and young coniferous stands. Posts will also be set up, including joint ones with traffic police officers. Citizens transporting New Year trees will have their documents confirming their purchase checked. In the pre-New Year days, the state forest protection intends to actively use "digital patrols" - photo and video recording cameras. "Over a hundred cameras are in operation on the forest fund territory of the Vitebsk State PLHO. Since the beginning of the year, more than 60 violations have been detected with their help. The most effective work of camera traps is noted in the Vitebsk, Orsha, Postavy, and Polotsk forestry enterprises," specialists emphasized.
The association reminded that the unauthorized felling of a New Year tree is punishable by a fine ranging from 5 to 50 basic units (one basic unit - Br25.5).