TOPPENISH, Wash. – The Yakama Nation is celebrating the U.S. Forest Service’s decision to suspend commercial huckleberry permits in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest for 2025.
Huckleberries hold cultural significance for the Yakama Nation, being central to many traditional ceremonies. However, recent years have seen a decline in harvests, affecting these ceremonies.
Yakama Nation Tribal Council Chairman Gerald Lewis expressed gratitude for the Forest Service’s commitment. “We sincerely appreciate the Forest Service’s commitment to protecting Yakama Nation’s First Foods from over-harvest and habitat degradation,” Lewis said.
Challenges such as harmful gathering tactics, drought, and invasive species threaten future huckleberry harvests. The permit suspension will allow time for the Yakama Nation and Forest Service to address these issues and explore partnership opportunities.
“These berries have a direct tie and importance to our people – the Yakama Nation wants reassurance that they will be available as a cultural resource for generations to come,” Lewis stated.
