Entre Ríos fined rural landowners for illegal burning in wetlands: environmental impact and economic sanction

The Secretariat of Environment of Entre Ríos imposed a fine of $496,140 on the owners of a rural establishment in the Victoria department for conducting an unauthorized burn in a wetland environment. The measure was formalized through Resolution No. 339/2026.

The incident was verified on December 4, 2022 during a patrol by the Provincial Fire Management Plan, which confirmed the burning of three hectares of dry vegetation without authorization or control.

Procedure and Grounds

The actions included photographic surveys and a technical report that confirmed the environmental impact, although without damage to people or property. To set the fine, the following were evaluated:

• Lack of fire control.
• Potential risk generated.
• High environmental damage due to being a wetland.
• No prior offenses by the owners.

The resolution recalled that Provincial Law No. 9,868 and National Laws No. 26,562 and No. 26,815 prohibit the use of fire in rural and forest areas without express authorization.

The offenders must pay the fine within 10 days, although they can request a payment plan within five business days after notification.

Environmental Impact of Illegal Burns

Burns in wetlands, often linked to agricultural or real estate expansion, generate critical consequences:

Environmental and Ecological Damage

• Loss of biodiversity: death or forced migration of amphibians, birds, reptiles, and mammals.
• Water toxicity: release of salts and harmful substances when the burned soil is flooded.
• Ecosystem degradation: replacement of native vegetation by invasive species and alteration of nutrient cycles.

Impact on Human Health

• Air pollution: emission of fine particulate matter and toxic gases.
• Respiratory and eye conditions: cough, asthma attacks, eye irritation, especially in children and the elderly.

Climate Alteration

• Emission of greenhouse gases: release of CO₂ and methane.
• Loss of carbon sinks: wetlands stop capturing carbon and filtering water efficiently.

Social and Legal Dimension

The case highlights the importance of applying effective sanctions to discourage illegal practices that affect fragile ecosystems.

The lack of response from the owners reinforces the need for rigorous state control and prevention policies that include environmental education and sustainable alternatives for land management.

The fine in Victoria sets a precedent in the defense of the wetlands of Entre Ríos. Beyond the economic sanction, the episode underscores the urgency of protecting these key ecosystems from the pressure of productive activities.

The preservation of wetlands is essential for biodiversity, public health, and the fight against climate change.