Non-Wood Forest Products
Seed Collection
Permits for seed collection are authorized on the Minidoka RD and Fairfield RD. Permittees are allowed to gather seed on shrubs, grasses, and forbs for commercial resale or personal use. Cost is $0.30 per pound of raw seed (flowers, branches, etc still attached – unprocessed seeds).
Ornamental Trees for Transplanting
Ornamental trees for transplanting are available for home plantings during periods of dormancy, which are early spring or late fall. Transplants require extra care during removal, transport, and during the first season or two following transplanting. Lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and Douglas-fir are available to transplant. Trees should be removed from dense thickets where tree thinning is needed, for small purchases of ornamental trees the Public can gather trees anywhere open for firewood cutting. A maximum of $1,000 dollars can be charged to a Permittee each year. The following rates will be charged:
- Trees under 6 feet - $2.00/tree
- Trees 6 – 10 feet - $4.00/tree
- Lodgepole pine only, 11 feet up to 20 feet - $20.00/ tree
Because mortality rates are higher for taller trees, trees over 10 feet will normally not be sold. Trees less than 5 feet usually experience less shock from transplanting and will release sooner and grow faster than taller trees.
Purchasers who want to use a tree spade to remove ornamental trees must contact the District Forester to determine the best location from which to remove trees. Trees removed by spade will be in areas where conifer encroachment reduction work is a priority. All tree spades must be inspected and ensured they are clean and free of seed or soil that can carry seeds. The Forester and Timber Crew can inspect this equipment, as well as other trained District staff.
Mushrooms
Commercial gathering of mushrooms is not allowed on the Sawtooth National Forest. Individuals are allowed to gather up to 5 gallons of mushrooms per day for personal use. No permit is required as this is considered incidental personal use.