The Georgia Forestry Commission has issued a seasonal reminder that anyone gathering pine straw without a "Certificate of Harvest" from the rightful landowner is guilty of a misdemeanor under Georgia law. Pine straw in recent years has become an important product of Georgia's forests, used as a mulching material that is in high demand by gardeners, landscapers and others.

State Bill 88, passed in 1989, protects landowners from being victimized by trespassers gathering pine straw. The pine straw industry in Georgia exceeds $10 million annually.

Pine straw harvesters are required by law to have in their possession a Certificate of Harvest giving permission by the landowner to gather and bale pine straw. This law does not apply to persons harvesting straw for home or personal use. The seller of pine straw is then required to present his certificate to a prospective buyer. The law also requires that the prospective buyer demand to see the certificate prior to sale.

A separate certificate must be obtained annually from each landowner whose pine straw is harvested: both landowner and harvester must sign all certificates.

Certificates of Harvest forms, issued at no charge, are available at all Georgia Forestry Commission offices. Call 770-254-7218.

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