Make sure you have a permit and permission to pick Palmetto Berries

Make sure you have a permit and permission to pick Palmetto Berries

MCSO URGES PALMETTO BERRY PICKERS WITH PERMITS TO BE SAFE, WARNS PICKERS WITHOUT PERMITS OR PERMISSION OF WARNINGS, POSSIBLE ARREST

Martin County, Fl- The season is ripe for an influx of palmetto berry pickers. The berries continue to be a valuable asset used by pharmaceutical companies to create specific supplements.  Those who set out to pick the berries are required to have a native plant harvesting permit issued by the state. In addition, pickers must have written permission from property owners to harvest berries on that property- or run the risk of being cited or even arrested.

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous trespass complaints because of berry pickers. MCSO’s Tactical Flight Officer Pat McFall was even able to track down a reported trespasser from the air at night. You can see in this photo using infrared technology a trespasser attempting to hide in the wooded area.

A permitting process has been implemented following numerous complaints from property owners about the amount of trespassing occurring during berry season.

If you have a permit and written permission to pick on someone’s property please do it as safely as possible.

Last year, pickers were faced with a number of close calls involving rattlesnakes and water moccasins. Also keep in mind, heavily wooded and wetland areas can make rescue efforts a little more challenging for first responders.

TreasureCoast

TreasureCoast

Share

Post Info

  • Posted 5 years ago

Read More

The Insider's Guide to Florida's Treasure Coast

Subscribe

Receive the latest tips, information, & news!