Seven individuals are facing charges following the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recovering over 10,000 pounds of illegally harvested saw palmetto berries in western Palm Beach County.
According to FWC, the recovery took place between Aug. 14 and Aug. 29 at the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area, a protected region. FWC reported the arrest of seven individuals on various charges, including seven felonies, nine misdemeanors, and eight noncriminal citations.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services mandates a permit for the harvesting and sale of saw palmetto berries in Florida. Additionally, saw palmettos serve as a habitat and food source for more than 200 wildlife species, as per FWC.
FWC noted that trespassing and theft of saw palmetto berries have been ongoing issues during late summer in Florida, given that the berries typically ripen from August to October. These berries are promoted as a dietary supplement and are utilized to address various diseases and disorders.
The Endangered Plant Advisory Council unanimously suggested including saw palmetto on the commercially exploited plant list, and FWC emphasized the gravity of this violation. To access more information concerning saw palmetto berries and the applicable laws, click here.
This article was originally published by Aja Dorsainvil at Scripps News West Palm Beach.
