Originally, Wild Crafting was utilized to bolster plant supplies for private use- for food, medicine, and recreation. Lately, wild plants have become scarce, endangered, or at risk. Plant populations are literally guarded in some places. With the resurgence of "green philosophies" good care must be taken not to encroach on our fellow man or Mother Nature. We should follow rules when harvesting so that we conscientiously leave the land better than we found it. Let's call these the "Good Manners of Wild Gathering."
* Share ethical Wild Crafting practices whenever and wherever you can. Give thanks in your own way for what you harvest.
* Don't leave your footprint. Be careful to restore the area as you leave it. Pick up any trash you can.
*Know the laws in the area. If you are harvesting on private land; be certain that you ask permission beforehand. Some public lands (especially National Parks) do not allow Wild Crafting. Be aware of your surroundings... Animals AND humans can be dangerous.
* "Have a Plan- Leave a Message." Let someone know where you will be. Take papers of identification with you.
*Sharing your knowledge of Wild Crafting sites can lead to depletion of your favorite Herb sites. Share this knowledge at your own risk.
*Bring supplies to Make Medicine in the Field. Some Herbs should be tinctured fresh.
* Harvest Clean. Consider a margin of 100-200 feet from roads or areas that have been sprayed or would be affected by (industrial) chemical leeching.
*Take only 1 of 4 plants. Gather only what you need. Leave the strongest plants to continue growth of the site. Take the foliage; leave the roots. If you take the whole plant; leave the seeds. Replant roots and rhizomes, especially if budding.
*Make an effort to replant areas and move plants away from areas that are due to be developed.
*Never gather if you are unsure of the identification of the plant.