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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Beril Naz Hassan

Epping Forest foragers told not to pick mushrooms

Foragers who explore and enjoy the ancient woodlands of Epping Forest have been warned against picking mushrooms

The City of London Corporation, which takes care of the area as a registered charity, said the fungi were a vital part of the forest’s ecosystem and its one million trees.

The charity explained that the mushrooms help protect the roots of the trees, as well as provide water and minerals to the plants.

In line with this, those who are caught foraging will continue facing prosecution and a criminal record. 

Epping Forest, a Site of Special Interest and a Special Area of Conservation across east London and Essex, is home to 440 rare and endangered fungi species. 

So, picking these mushrooms, risks and damages the invaluable forest biodiversity that has developed over the past 10,000 years.

Plus, the funghi serves as a precious source of nourishment for animals in the forest, including deer and rare insect species.

Since 2022, nine people have been prosecuted and given a criminal record. One of these individuals was caught with 49 kilos of mushrooms. 

Talking about this important issue, the chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Epping Forest and Commons Committee, Ben Murphy, said: “I hope by explaining why Epping Forest's fungi is so unique, we can change behaviours and discourage foragers from this location."

The City of London Corporation maintains around 10,000 acres of public green spaces in Greater London and the surrounding counties. 

Aside from Epping Forest, it is best known for taking care of Hampstead Heath, Ashtead Common, Highgate Wood, the City Commons and Burnham Beeches. 

The corporation also oversees the unheated Parliament Hill Lido in Hampstead Heath and owns and manages Queens Park, West Ham Park and tens of other smaller green spaces.

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