Man fined for illegal gold panning in Welsh river
Court convicts repeat offender at Llandudno Magistrates Court
Last updated 15th Sep 2026
A man has been found guilty of illegal gold panning in Coed y Brenin Forest and has been ordered to pay fines and costs totaling more than £4,700.
Brian Wright was caught by officers from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) on 4th October 2024 and 16th December 2024 while illegally gold panning at Pont Wen on the Afon Wen near Dolgellau.
Gold panning is prohibited on NRW-managed land due to the potential damage it can cause to river ecosystems.
The practice can disturb riverbeds through excavation and mineral removal, impacting habitats vital to local wildlife.
It also violates the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975, which protects spawning fish and river habitats.
On 14th September 2026, Llandudno Magistrates Court convicted Mr Wright, imposing fines of £400 and £1,500, alongside costs amounting to £2,800.
Richard Berry, NRW Land Management Team Leader in North West Wales, said:
"Coed y Brenin is a protected and valued natural environment, and activities such as illegal gold panning can cause significant damage to river habitats and wildlife.
"We work hard to protect these areas and will take action where offences are identified. This case should serve as a reminder that illegal gold panning is not permitted on NRW-managed land and those who ignore the rules may face prosecution."
Mr Wright's previous offence involving illegal gold panning led to sentencing in May 2022.