The harvesters usually use a nonmotorized canoe with a push pole or paddles for power and collect rice using two sticks, or flails, to knock mature seeds into the canoe. While labor intensive, harvesting wild rice can be rewarding and finding a mentor who knows what they’re doing can make all the difference.
What time of year do you harvest wild rice in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s green rice law makes it illegal to harvest green rice even if it’s in the field, despite the fact that harvesters are allowed to take ripe wild rice each year between aug. 15 and sept.
“It’s a violation of the law if you’re harvesting a crop that’s not in season, and you don’t have a permit to do so,” said Tom Kloza, a spokesman for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “If you harvest it, you can be fined up to $1,000 and have your license suspended for a period of time.
What is the traditional method to collect wild rice?
To harvest wild rice, the paddler propels the canoe forward at a slow walking pace. The ricer gently guides a cluster of stalks over the gunnels. The ricer gently raps the tops of the stalks a few times with a smooth, flat stroke, almost parallel to the water’s surface. Once the rice has been harvested, it is placed in a basket, which is then filled with water and placed on the boat’s deck.
Can anyone harvest wild rice in Minnesota?
Harvesting wild rice is open to Minnesota residents and nonresidents. Residents can either purchase a season license or a one-day license. Unless they are residents under the age of 18 and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, all harvesters are required to be licensed. For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.
