Reviewing the regulations relating to mushroom harvesting is always a good thing before heading out into the forest lands. Sites such as the one for the Mt. Hood National Forest can pinpoint closed areas as well as sections where fire damage and recovery efforts may be evident. Importantly, you can find out the difference between regulations for mushroom gathering for personal use and for commercial use.
In the next couple of months, Mt. Hood will transform
itself into a glorious, snowy playground!
Following my own advise, I spent some time this morning checking out the Mt. Hood National Forest site. It was here that I was alerted to the fact that harvesters are required to have either a digital or paper copy of the Forest Mushroom Map on their person!
The following are a couple of other guidelines and restrictions to be aware of when gathering mushrooms for personal use:
- Personal use mushrooms cannot be sold or bartered. Harvesting mushrooms for commercial use is still closed at this time.
- It is prohibited to collect forest products in wilderness areas, Old Maid Flats, developed recreation sites, or other areas normally closed to harvest.
- Personal use mushroom harvest is limited to 1 gallon per day and a total of 10 gallons per year.
- Entering fire closure areas to collect mushrooms or other forest products is prohibited.
If you're heading into another area to mushroom, be sure to familiarize yourself with that location's regulations as they may be different than those of the Mt. Hood National Forest.
Yes, there is no doubt that preparation is part of being a thoughtful and successful forager.
Here's wishing you a most successful and joyful mushrooming season!