Provincial Act No. 18 regulating mushrooms gathering in order to protect plant ecosystems. Country/Territory Italy Territorial subdivision Bolzano Document type Legislation Date 1991 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Forestry, Wild species & ecosystems Keyword Authorization/permit Non-timber products Ecosystem preservation Offences/penalties Collecting/harvesting Geographical area Alps, Europe, Europe and Central Asia, European Union Countries, Mediterranean, Southern Europe Entry into force notes The Provincial Act enters into force after 120 days from the date of its publication on the Bollettino Ufficiale della Regione. Abstract With a view to guaranteeing the conservation of plant ecosystems pertaining to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, this Act lays down provisions in matter of gathering of spontaneous mushrooms. Mushrooms may be collected only upon authorization issued in accordance with article 6. Whenever the Inspectorate for Forests finds or suspects any damage on the forestry ecosystem, the Provincial Council shall prohibit the gathering of mushrooms in the areas concerned (art. 2). Paragraphs 3 and 4 establish the related penalties. Furthermore, collecting of mushrooms may be prohibited by landowners on their respective lands (art. 3). Article 4 regulates gathering, establishing the hours and days when it is permitted as well as the equipment which may not be used (par. 5). Article 7 concerns the issuance of special permits for scientific or educational purposes. Full text Italian Website www.provinz.bz.it