COEUR D’ ALENE, Idaho – The US Forest Service for enjoying huckleberries in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests this summer season.
Foraging for huckleberries is legal throughout the forest system as long as it is for personal enjoyment rather than commercial use.
“Huckleberries may be harvested for personal use anywhere on the Idaho Panhandle national Forests unless specifically prohibited,” the Forest Service said.
Picking by hand is encouraged, as it is both more efficient and better for the plants than rakes or other gardening tools. Wasting huckleberries is a gross violation of Inland Northwest decorum and wasteful. Lots of forest animals will enjoy eating the huckleberries if you won’t.
The Forest Service also encourages those looking for huckleberries to keep in mind larger, furrier mammals.
“Bears and humans are both attracted to huckleberry hotspots. To help avoid a bear encounter, make plenty of noise and keep dogs leashed,” the Forest Service said.
Additional outdoor principles including reducing one’s footprint and are also common sense for those enjoying the outdoors this summer.
