Illegal Ginseng Harvesting in New York: Two Arrested for Digging Valuable Roots
Two men in Delaware County, New York, were recently arrested for illegally harvesting American ginseng, a highly valuable and endangered plant. On August 29, officers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) responded to a trespassing tip, leading to the discovery of the illegal activity. The suspects, who had claimed to be loggers, were found riding an ATV in a 2,000-acre plot of land. Their dirty hands and knees suggested that they were digging for more than just trees.
Upon further investigation, DEC officers found a duffel bag containing 13 freshly harvested ginseng roots. This pointed to an illegal operation, as the harvest of ginseng is strictly regulated in New York State. American ginseng is in high demand worldwide, leading to frequent poaching and illegal harvesting, which threatens the plant’s survival. The root’s value is so significant that it has become a target for poachers trespassing on private property. The two men were issued six tickets, including for harvesting ginseng out of season and for taking the plant from private property without permission.
American ginseng is only allowed to be harvested in New York State between September 1 and November 30. Even during this legal season, strict rules govern its collection. Ginseng must be at least five years old before it can be harvested, which can be determined by counting the scars on the plant’s neck. Additionally, any seeds from harvested ginseng must be replanted within 50 feet of where the plant was taken to ensure its continued growth.
For more information about the DEC’s efforts and regulations on ginseng harvesting, visit 98.1 The Hawk’s report.
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Ginseng’s endangered status makes its preservation crucial, and New York State’s regulations aim to protect this valuable resource from further depletion. This case highlights the ongoing issue of poaching and the importance of following legal guidelines to ensure the sustainability of endangered species. The arrests serve as a reminder that even natural resources require careful management and legal protection.