Chemult, Ore. – Four national forests in Oregon will open the 2015 harvest season for matsutake mushrooms following Labor Day weekend.
People out in the forest are reminded that fire danger remains high and to be careful and observe the rules in place for the local area.
Matsutake mushroom season opens on Tuesday, September 8, on the Deschutes, Fremont-Winema, Umpqua and Willamette National Forests. All four national forests will conclude their season on November 8.
A commercial harvest permit is required for anyone harvesting matsutake mushrooms on the four national forests. Permits cost $200 for the 62-day season or $100 for a consecutive 31-day half season permit. An $8 per day permit that requires a three-day minimum purchase can also be bought that does not require picking days to be consecutive. Harvesters must be 18 or older and have valid identification to purchase a permit.
Each purchase of a permit includes an informational synopsis and map showing areas open to harvest. Areas closed to harvest include Crater Lake National Park, Newberry National Volcanic Monument, H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon Cascades Recreation Area, research natural areas, wilderness areas, campgrounds and other posted closed areas.
In addition, some areas within the Deschutes National Forest that include the Sisters Ranger District are closed to mushroom harvests.
Contact the local Forest Service office for more information about mushroom closures and permits.
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