Epping Forest: Foragers warned not to pick ancient woodland's mushrooms

People have been warned not to pick mushrooms in Epping Forest.

The City of London Corporation, which conserves the ancient woodland as a registered charity, said the fungi were vital to the health of the forest's one million trees.

It said the fungi play an important role in protecting the roots of trees, providing water and vital minerals.

The authority said those caught foraging faced prosecution and a criminal record.

Epping Forest, which stretches from east London into Essex, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. It is one of the few remaining extensive natural woodlands in southern England.

It is home to 440 rare and endangered fungi species. Conservationists say picking them damages the valuable forest biodiversity that has developed over the past 10,000 years.

They are also a valuable food source for animals, such as deer, and many rare insect species depend on them for survival.

Fungi are protected under Epping Forest bylaws, and the City of London Corporation has prosecuted nine people for breaches since 2022, with offenders receiving criminal records.

One person was caught with a 49kg haul, equivalent to multiple large black sacks.

Ben Murphy, chairman of the City of London Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee, said they wanted people to come and enjoy the ancient woodland, but said: "I hope by explaining why Epping Forest's fungi is so unique, we can change behaviours and discourage foragers from this location."

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