Ginseng harvest permits available Tuesday in Boone Forest

WINCHESTER, Ky. (AP) – People interested in harvesting ginseng from the Daniel Boone National Forest may obtain a permit this week.

Permits are $20, and holders may collect up to 1 pound of green, non-dried ginseng root between Sept. 15 and Sept. 30.

The forest says its policy is in place to help conserve ginseng on national forest lands. Some believe ginseng is valuable in treating some health conditions, and wild ginseng is dwindling as a result.

Harvesting permits may be purchased at any district office beginning Tuesday. The permits apply only to land in the district that issues the permit.

Collectors are required by law to plant seeds from harvested plants within 50 feet of the harvest location.

State regulations and harvest season are different from rules that apply inside the forest.

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press.