Cedar Forests of Bouiblane and Bounaceur: ANEF Denies Any “Systematic Deforestation” and Provides Clarifications

In response to information circulated by various media outlets and on social networks regarding alleged “systematic logging” or “organized mafias” targeting the cedar forests of Bouiblane and Bounaceur, the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) has published a clarifying statement aimed at informing the public.

Constant Vigilance Over Cedar Forests

ANEF emphasizes that the protection of cedar forests, regarded as a strategic national heritage and a vital ecological asset, is a core priority of its operational and strategic actions.

Following the dissemination of these allegations, thorough field investigations were initiated by the relevant services at the regional directorates in Fès-Meknès and the Oriental regions.

These operations are part of local, provincial, and regional committees that are responsible for monitoring, controlling, and regularly supervising sensitive forest areas.

Old Incidents and Isolated Cases

The investigations revealed that a portion of the images circulating online relates to old infractions from late 2025, which have already been documented and are subject to legal proceedings against the responsible parties.

Concerning recent incidents, field assessments identified only two isolated situations:

• one case of illegal logging of a single cedar,
• one tree that had fallen due to recent strong winds and snowfall.

No Systematic Deforestation

ANEF specifies that these isolated cases cannot be equated with systematic deforestation, as claimed in certain publications.

The Agency notes that the affected areas are located in difficult-to-access mountainous terrains, sometimes bordering and isolated, complicating monitoring efforts, particularly during winter.

Enhanced Control Measures

Despite these challenges, field teams continue their efforts through:

• regular surveillance patrols,
• ongoing control operations,
• and strengthened coordination with local authorities and the Royal Gendarmerie.

The goal is to effectively combat any form of illegal exploitation of the forest heritage.

Strict Law Enforcement and Call for Responsibility

ANEF reaffirms that any infringement on forest lands is addressed in accordance with current legal provisions. It rejects any generalizations or misinterpretations that could undermine the efforts made by its teams on the ground.

The Agency also calls for collective mobilization, involving civil society, the media, and local populations, to preserve this natural heritage through responsible and objective reporting.

As part of the “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” strategy, ANEF continues its efforts to strengthen forest governance, enhance control mechanisms, and ensure the sustainable protection of cedar forests, aiming for their conservation for future generations.