How to Harvest (sustainably)

Ecological Harvesting Protocol

1. Harvest in Abundance Only

- Avoid harvesting same stand two years in a row

-Never harvest threatened or endangered plants

2. Practice and Promote Damage Control

-Hard-soled shoes are most damaging to delicate ecosystems

-When harvesting leaves harvest from the outer parts of the plant, so it can regenerate from the inside.

-When harvesting on the hillside, begin at the bottom at the bottom before moving up. Leave all plants growing at the top of the hill, these plants are often referred to as "grandparent" plants and replenish seeds and protect younger plants.

3. Gather only from Healthy Plants and Communities

-In general, do not harvest the first plant of any species you find in any area.

-In a plant species community, harvest from the center --> out.

-Remove no more than 10% of a native plant community or 20 % of a naturalized plant community.

-Leave as though it appears you were never there.

4. Harvest in Unpolluted Areas

-Harvest 50-100 yards away from public roads.

-Avoid harvesting downstream of any mining or non-organic agricultural business

-Avoid harvesting beneath high voltage power lines. Yes, mutations are possible.

5. Get Permission

- Get permission from neighbors and if you seek to harvest on Bureau of Land Management land, you are required to obtain a free-use permit.


 * Harvest all plants with great gratitude, love and care. Thank the plant and it will serve you in return.