Casablanca — Morocco’s National Agency of Water and Forests (ANEF) said Tuesday that claims of widespread cedar forest destruction in parts of the Middle Atlas are inaccurate, pushing back on reports shared on social media and by some outlets.
The agency responded after allegations described “systematic logging” and even the presence of “organized mafias” in cedar areas around Bouiblane and Bounaceur, particularly near Boutelfine-Tamjilt, a mountainous zone between the provinces of Guercif and Boulemane. It said its regional teams in Fez-Meknes and the Oriental immediately carried out field checks and opened investigations to verify what was being circulated.
According to the agency, many of the images and claims are not recent. A large portion dates back to incidents recorded at the end of 2025, which authorities had already documented. Legal and regulatory procedures were launched against those involved, it said.
As for the latest situation on the ground, officials reported only two isolated cases. One involved the illegal cutting of a single cedar tree. The other concerned a tree that had already fallen, brought down by strong winds and snowfall during recent weather conditions in the region.
The agency said presenting these cases as evidence of widespread deforestation does not match reality. It pointed to an existing monitoring system that includes local, provincial and regional commissions responsible for tracking forest conditions, identifying violations, and taking action when needed.
Still, the agency acknowledged that the areas in question are difficult to manage. The forests are located in rugged, mountainous terrain, often remote and close to administrative boundaries. Snowfall can further complicate access, creating moments that can be exploited by individuals attempting illegal activity.
Despite this, it said its field units continue regular patrols and control operations, working in coordination with local authorities and the Royal Gendarmerie. Surveillance and enforcement efforts remain ongoing, with a focus on preventing any form of illegal exploitation.
The agency reiterated that any damage to forest land is handled strictly under current laws. It also rejected what it described as inaccurate generalizations that risk undermining the work of its staff, who operate in challenging natural conditions.
Calling the protection of cedar forests a shared responsibility, the agency urged civil society, media and local communities to rely on verified information and report issues responsibly. It said it will continue strengthening governance and oversight measures as part of the “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” strategy, aimed at preserving cedar ecosystems for future generations.
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