Berry Picking Permits Now Required at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

August 27, 2008

Did you know that you can pick cranberries and beach plums at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge?

Well, you can, but you need to obtain a free permit before you do. The permit may be obtained free of charge at the Refuge headquarters and visitor center located at 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport or at the Refuge entrance gatehouse on Sunset Avenue, Newbury. Failing to obtain a permit prior to berry picking may result in a citation and fine.

When Can You Pick Cranberry and Beach Plums at the Refuge?

The cranberry and beach plum picking season at the Refuge starts on the Tuesday after Labor Day and continues until October 31. Each person is limited to picking one quart of cranberries and one quart of beach plums per day.

To protect the fragile dune and vernal pool habitats where these fruits occur, specific areas are designated for these activities. Beach plum picking is allowed along the Refuge road and within 25 feet of Refuge parking lots. Beach plums may also be picked along trails, but visitors must stay on the trails at all times.

Cranberry picking is allowed only at the North Pool field and at the North Beach Access Bog.

Berry picking is limited to the regular hours of Refuge operations (sunrise to sunset) and parking is restricted to designated parking lots. Collecting any other fruit or plant material is strictly prohibited on the Refuge.

For more information, call the Refuge at 978-465-5753 or visit the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge website.