Best practice in the natural environment
Collecting mushrooms and fruits
The massive collection of mushrooms and fruits can have a significant impact on the environment and also disrupt the lives of the inhabitants of the area. It should be done responsibly to ensure that nature can continue to provide what we collect.
Problems it can cause
Mushroom picking has a strong tradition in Catalonia, but in recent years it has increased dramatically leading to overuse in some areas. This overuse can significantly harm the environment when collection is not done responsibly, and can often result to an accumulation of vehicles in areas not designated for parking. Additionally, in certain seasons, human presence in the woods can disturb the fauna living there.
Moreover, this increased visitation, coupled with the absence of clear regulations, can lead to conflicts between visitors and forest owners. The intensity with which the activity is carried out can harm the forest, and therefore, its owner.
Best practices
Whenever you collect mushrooms or fruits, do so responsibly and in moderation:
- When picking mushrooms, use a knife to collect the entire mushroom.
- Don’t take what you won’t eat or don’t recognise, and don’t disturb what you leave behind.
- Make sure mushroom picking is allowed in the area you are in, ask for permission if necessary and respect any signage you may encounter.
- Carry the mushrooms in a wicker basket; this way, the forest retains their spores.
- Do not disturb the underbrush or the forest floor, as it harms the mushrooms.
- Allow small mushrooms to grow to ensure they produce spores and thus maintain a healthy population.
- Get informed about and respect the specific regulations that may apply to the area.
- Avoid overcrowding.
- Some seasons, such as spring, are particularly sensitive for forest-dwelling species. Inform yourself and follow recommendations.