Last Chance for Ginseng Harvest

According to the U.S. Forest Service, A recent dramatic increase in the demand for permits issued for harvesting ginseng in the Chattahoochee National Forest has raised concerns about sustainable harvest levels. With that in mind, only 42 permits will be issued this year, 40 for the Blue Ridge Ranger District, and 2 for the Conasauga Ranger District. There will be no ginseng permits issued for the Chattooga River Ranger District or the Oconee National Forest this year. Those who are to receive permits will be randomly selected through a lottery system by each District office. Time is running short though to have your name placed in the lottery,to enter you must call or visit the issuing district office before July 31, 2015.