September is in full swing, and videos of swamps are appearing more and more on social media: large ruby-colored berries, buckets and baskets full.

The cranberry season in the Brest region officially began on September 10, and thousands of people have already set out on a “quiet hunt.”

But, as it turns out, not everyone knows the rules — and violating them

If you're planning to go to the bog in such a place, don't even think about it. A fine is guaranteed. By the way, before heading out to the forest, be sure to check the interactive map on the website of the Ministry of Forestry. During the fire hazard period, visiting forests may be restricted or completely prohibited.

Fines: how much you'll have to pay

Now, about the most unpleasant part. For violating the rules of cranberry harvesting, administrative liability is provided for under Article 16.19 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Belarus. The fines are as follows: for individuals, up to 20 basic units. As of January 1, 2026, the basic unit is 45 rubles, so the maximum fine is 900 rubles. For individual entrepreneurs, up to 100 basic units (up to 4,500 rubles). For legal entities, up to 500 basic units (up to 22,500 rubles).

And that's not all. In addition to the fine, the offender will have to compensate for the damage caused to the environment - 1.2 basic units for every kilogram of berries. The berries themselves and the harvesting tools will be confiscated.

What the inspectors say

I spoke with people who go on raids to the bogs every year. They all say the same thing: the problem of premature harvesting is an annual one. "Unfortunately, this is an annual problem. Before the season opens, the berries don't have time to ripen. By picking them ahead of time, people harm not only themselves - such cranberries are sour and less useful - but also nature, undermining the harvest of future years," says Vladislav Mikhluk, senior state inspector of the Stolinsky Interdistrict Inspection.

He also reminded that the ban was introduced not to limit people's earnings, but to preserve nature. Cranberries are a national treasure, and they should bring benefits, not become a reason for a protocol. What's the bottom line? The cranberry season in the Brest region is open from September 10. You can pick cranberries by hand or with a "combine" with teeth no less than 0.5 cm, without blades. It's forbidden to pick cranberries in reserves and sanctuaries, as well as before the official deadline.

The fine for violating the rules is up to 900 rubles plus compensation for damage for every kilogram of berries. If you're planning to go to the bog, take the right tool, check the map of restrictions, and don't rush. Cranberries picked on time are tastier and more useful. And most importantly, without a protocol.

Have you already opened the cranberry season? Share in the comments - how much you managed to pick and where.

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