JACKSON, Wyo. — It’s prime huckleberry season, and Bridger Teton National Forest (BTNF) is reminding locals and visitors about some rules and tips to keep in mind this year out in the forest.
Gather for personal use. BTNF does not allow commercial picking or the reselling of huckleberries. Recreational huckleberry gatherers are encouraged to pick only what they can consume so that others can also enjoy the fun of picking and tasting the fruit.
There are no designated collection areas. Huckleberries can be harvested anywhere on the BTNF unless otherwise restricted.
Pickers are strongly encouraged to hand pick their berries. While methods vary, hand picking ensures that the bushes are not damaged and only ripe berries are harvested. Any methods that damage or destroy the bushes are illegal and could result in a fine for damaging natural resources.
Always practice Leave No Trace principles whenever recreating on National Forests. Make sure everyone can enjoy their outdoor experience by packing out any garbage and cleaning up sites before leaving.
Always carry bear spray and be bear-aware when picking. Huckleberries are a major source of nourishment for bears. Gatherers are encouraged to leave some berries unpicked.
Popular huckleberry gathering areas can become crowded. Exercise courtesy to fellow gatherers and/or consider seeking out a new area if an area gets popular.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, different species of huckleberry are native to both North America and Europe. The USDA claims Henry David Thoreau believed the name huckleberry was derived from the Saxon, or Germanic people of the Middle Ages, word “heart-berg,” meaning heart’s berry.
