Earn $125 Per Bushel Collecting Pine Cones for Wisconsin’s Reforestation Program
Looking for a way to earn some extra cash while helping the environment? The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is calling on all outdoor enthusiasts to help collect red and white pine cones for their reforestation efforts. The DNR is offering $125 per bushel of red pine cones and $60 per bushel of white pine cones, making it a great way to make money while contributing to Wisconsin’s forests.
How to Collect Pine Cones
The ideal time to collect pine cones is early September, when the cones have turned brown but the scales haven’t yet opened to release the seeds. Follow these simple steps to get started:
- Contact the DNR: Before you begin collecting, reach out to one of the state nurseries to confirm that they are still purchasing cones. You can call the following nurseries:
- Griffith Nursery (Wisconsin Rapids): 715-424-3700
- Wilson Nursery (Boscobel): 608-375-4123
- Hayward Nursery (Hayward): 715-492-1204
- Prepare for Collecting: Wear gloves to protect your hands from sap and use handheld landscaping shears to carefully snip the cones from the trees. It’s important to only collect from natural forest areas, as cones from yard trees are not accepted.
- Know What to Look For: Red pine cones are smaller and can take around 2-3 hours to collect a bushel, while white pine cones are larger and can be collected more quickly. Make sure the cones are mature but not yet opened.
How to Store and Sell Your Pine Cones
After collecting, store the pine cones in breathable containers and keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid molding or overheating. Once you’ve gathered your bushels, deliver them to one of the DNR’s seed-buying stations as soon as possible. The DNR reserves the right to reject cones if they don’t meet quality standards or if there’s too much debris mixed in.
Help Wisconsin’s Forests Thrive
By collecting and selling pine cones, you’ll be contributing to the DNR’s reforestation program, which plays a vital role in growing trees that help preserve Wisconsin’s natural beauty. These seeds are used to cultivate new trees that will replenish our forests for future generations.
If you’re ready to help Wisconsin’s forests grow—and make a little extra money in the process—get involved with the Wisconsin DNR’s pine cone collection program today!
For more information and to stay updated on local opportunities, visit the Wisconsin DNR website.
To help you get started with the pine cone collection process, the Wisconsin DNR has provided a detailed guide outlining everything you need to know about seed collection. This comprehensive document includes specific instructions for identifying red and white pines, proper collection techniques, and storage guidelines to ensure your cones meet the program’s quality standards. If you’re interested in becoming a seed collector, be sure to review this guide for valuable insights and tips.
Feel free to view or download the PDF below for all the information you need to start collecting pine cones for Wisconsin’s reforestation program.
