The Division of Forestry and Wildlife launched an all-digital system to allow people to get permits to forage for plants, fruit and flowers at State Forest Reserves on the Hawaiian Islands.
Permits are allowed for both personal and commercial use. However, commercial harvesters, which are based on the amount of the plant collected, must pay a fee.
The permitting system shows a map, so plant collectors can find the location of where they plan to harvest. Once a location is selected on the map, a permit is automatically made that includes the location. Foragers can then use a drop-down menu to select the desired items and quantities.
Commonly foraged plants include maile, palapalai, pine cones, bamboo, Christmas berry branches, Norfolk pine, strawberry guava fruit and branches, ti leaf, hapuu, mamaki, ohelo berries and plums.
The collection of endangered or threatened plants is not permitted.
Permits should be submitted 10 days before collection to allow for them to be approved. A printed version of the permit must be carried with the forager while collecting the plant items.
Foragers are still allowed to apply for a permit through the DOFAW District office.
Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii.
