By David Pilz, Jerry Smith,
Michael P. Amaranthus, Susan Alexander, Randy Molina, and Daniel Luoma
American matsutake (Tricholoma magnivelare), which are harvested
from Forest Service lands in the southern Oregon Cascade Range, provide
commercial, recreational, subsistence, and cultural opportunities to
forest users. The Winema and Deschutes National Forests have used
collection permits and educational programs to address concerns about
harvesters' activities and resource sustainability. Research on matsutake
productivity shows that silvicultural options may reduce fire danger and
provide revenue, jobs, and wood while improving forest health and
increasing the availability of the mushrooms. Thus forest managers can
expand their planning and management activities to enhance the commercial
value of forests. JOF 97(3):4-11 |