Morel Mushroom Licenses Available Now [AUDIO]

The Bitterroot National Forest is now issuing commercial mushroom harvest
permits for the 2012 season.  Morel mushrooms are expected to appear later this
spring in two areas on the Forest following last summer’s wildfires.  The 41
Complex fire on the Darby Ranger District and Saddle Complex fire on the West
Fork Ranger District burned over 47,000 acres of the Bitterroot and
Salmon-Challis National Forests. 
Mushroom seasons vary depending on local weather conditions and elevations but generally
last from May through September.  To harvest mushrooms anywhere on the National
Forest you must have a permit.  All commercial harvesters 12 years of age and
older are required to purchase a commercial harvest permit.  The following fees
will be charged: 7-day permit = $20, 14-day permit = $40, 21-day permit = $60,
30-day permit = $75, and a season permit = $100.  Mushroom gathering for
commercial use will be allowed on approximately 19,000 acres within the two fire
areas.  Commercial permits are available only at the Darby and West Fork
Ranger Districts or at the Forest Supervisor’s office in Hamilton. My interview with Todd McKay of the Bitterroot National Forest is attached below.