Energy, Mines, and Resources
Forestry
Other Forest Resources
Morel Mushroom Harvesting
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In Yukon, forest fires are inevitable occurrences. For reasons not entirely understood, morels tend to “fruit” in abundance in burned areas of coniferous forests in the spring following a summer fire. View the 2010 fire maps 
12.4 MB
Field Identification
There are a number of different species and varieties of edible wild morels. Harvesters must be diligent about observing each mushroom picked. Beginners should always pick with an experienced person. Experimental consumption of unknown species is not recommended and could be lethal.
Poisonous look-alike species and other unidentified species may be encountered while harvesting. Once you have harvested with an experienced picker, and have been working for awhile, you will become accustomed to variation to morel shape, size and color. However, even experienced pickers have mistakenly harvested false morels. Some dangerous look-alike species which may be found in wild mushroom guides include: Girometra esculenta, Verpa boltemica, V. conica, Helvetta esculenta, H. gigas, and Mitrophora semiliberg. Even edible morels should be well cooked for at least 5 minutes and never be eaten raw within 72 hours of consuming alcohol.
Habitat - Where to find morels
Prolific fruiting (or flushing) of the mushroom bodies happens during a 2-3 week period, usually during June in Yukon following the retreat of winter snow and a period of warm weather. Yukon morels are endemic on older burn areas as well, with some observations suggesting a period of up to 4 years of successive but diminishing fruiting. They prefer the southern aspects of well-drained slopes and will occur in concentration around the base of coniferous trees. Patches of morels may occur where small depressions have retained soil moisture.
Identifying Areas for Picking
Public Land: In the Yukon, you can pick mushrooms on public lands where public access is allowed. You should be aware however, that some public lands have traditional or historic values or may be actively used by local residents for specific purposes.
Private Property and First Nations Land: Mushroom pickers are not permitted to harvest mushrooms on private (Fee Simple or Leased) property without the owner's permission. Where potential harvesting sites exist on First Nations settlement lands, pickers are advised to contact that First Nation's office prior to any harvesting activities.
Remote Areas: Only experienced back country travelers should attempt picking in remote areas. Following proper safety precautions and practicing strict no trace camping is particularly important in remote areas which are often accessed only by boat, plane or helicopter. Prepare for encounters with wildlife by learning what to do before your wilderness trip.
Parking: To prevent accidents and unnecessary congestion please remember to consult local authorities regarding parking and other activities on highways and other right of ways.
Personal Safety in the Forest
When traveling in the forest, be prepared for changes in weather, rough terrain, dense brush and unexpected encounters with wildlife. Travelers should carry maps of the area and a compass and know how to use them for wilderness travel. Always know where you are on the map to ensure a safe return to your campsite or vehicle. You should also be aware of basic search and rescue procedures in the event you are lost or injured in the woods.
Forest Protection
Always be cautious of starting forest fires! Select your campfire sites carefully and put them out completely before leaving a site.
When choosing an area to harvest, beware of fires that may have moved underground. Consult local authorities concerning up to date forest fire information and please report all wild fires!
View the 2010 fire maps 12.4 MB
Litter/Campsites/Wildlife Encounters
Preventing damage to the fragile forest environment and personal safety are your responsibility. Food, garbage and unsanitary practices can attract animals and result in unhealthy camp conditions. Care should be taken to properly store food and garbage away from the campsite. Ensure that all human wastes are dealt with in a sanitary fashion. All garbage is to be packed out and disposed of in an approved dumpsite.
You are not permitted to cut live, healthy trees or erect any permanent structures. Land Use permits are required for camps of more than 2 people for more than 100 person days. Campsites must be left clean, safe and sanitary.
Additional Information
These links provide further information that might be useful should you be considering harvesting morel mushrooms in Yukon this summer.
- Energy, Mines and Resources Client Services and Inspections District Offices
- Wildland Fire Management for information on Yukon fire history and current fire bans.
- Land Management Branch for information on land use, including land use permits (see Info Sheet 8).
- Environment Yukon - Into the Yukon Wilderness
- Environment Yukon - Leave No Trace
For additional information please contact:
Robin Sharples, Forester
Forest Management Branch
Phone: 867.633.7908
Fax: 867.667.3138
Email: robin.sharples@gov.yk.ca
