National Forest issues hundreds of mushroom permits

The Kootenai National Forest has issued more than 300 commercial mushroom permits and roughly 400 free, personal use permits since May 7, a news release states.

“Incidental and personal use free make up the bulk of the mushroom harvesters on the forest,” the news release states. “Nearly thirty commercial camp permits have been issued and there are mushroom buyers in the area.”

The commercial mushroom season ends July 7, while personal permits are good until Sept. 30.

“Those who will be picking mushrooms incidentally (up to five gallons per season) are allowed to pick mushrooms through the calendar year,” the news release states.

Mushroom information boards containing maps and permit requirements are available outside each local National Forest office and at various locations in Lincoln and Sanders County.

People who witness sanitation issues or other violations are asked to report them to the nearest Ranger District office.

For the most current mushroom information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/kootenai/.