Hawaii Foraging

Hawaii Foraging Laws

State lands: varies by area. Many native plants protected. Introduced species often OK.

Hawaii foraging rules complex due to endemic species protection. Native plants often protected. State forest reserves may allow gathering of introduced species. Lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, mountain apple, breadfruit commonly foraged. Hunting areas allow some gathering. Cultural gathering rights for Native Hawaiians. Commercial requires permits. Know protected species - fines significant.

Foraging on Public Land

Hawaii: Foraging for personal use often allowed on National Forests and BLM land. State parks usually prohibit. Always check local rules.

FORAGING LAWS & GUIDELINES

WHERE FORAGING IS USUALLY ALLOWED
National Forests:
• Personal use quantities permitted
• Typically 1 gallon berries/day
• Some mushrooms need free permit
• Commercial harvest needs permit

BLM Land:
• Generally allowed for personal use
• Reasonable quantities
• No rare/protected species

WHERE FORAGING IS USUALLY PROHIBITED
• National Parks: Prohibited without permit
• State Parks: Usually prohibited
• Wilderness Areas: May be restricted
• Private Property: Trespassing without permission

COMMON RULES
1. Personal use only (not for sale)
2. Reasonable quantities (gallon/day typical)
3. No rare/endangered species
4. No tools that damage plants (no raking in some areas)
5. Check for specific closures

WHAT YOU CAN TYPICALLY FORAGE
• Berries (blackberries, huckleberries, etc.)
• Mushrooms (with permit in some forests)
• Nuts (acorns, pine nuts)
• Edible plants (nettles, fiddleheads)
• Herbs and spices

PROTECTED SPECIES
Never harvest:
• Rare or endangered plants
• Plants in protected habitats
• Without proper identification
• More than you need

COMMERCIAL FORAGING
Requires permits and fees:
• Mushroom permits (Pacific Northwest)
• Bough/greenery permits
• Must be designated areas
• Quantity limits and fees apply