The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is reminding ginseng dealers and harvesters of newly approved regulations that will take effect on July 1, 2025. These changes are designed to improve oversight and sustainability of ginseng harvesting and trade in the state.
Under the new rules, anyone buying or selling ginseng in Missouri must obtain a Ginseng Dealer Permit. The cost is $100 for Missouri residents and $300 for non-residents. Only those with a valid dealer permit may purchase uncertified ginseng, and all root sold by a dealer must be certified through MDC. Dealers may temporarily possess uncertified root but are now required to have it certified before any sale. Each root certification will also carry a $25 fee.
Additionally, a Ginseng Harvest Permit will be required to legally harvest ginseng in Missouri. Permits will be available starting July 1. However, landowners who wish to give away or sell ginseng root grown on their property may apply for a no-cost Landowner Harvest Authorization Number by contacting MDC Ginseng Program Coordinator Malissa Briggler at Malissa.Briggler@mdc.mo.gov or 573-522-4115 ext. 3151.
MDC mailed information about these changes to registered ginseng dealers late last year and asked them to share it with harvesters.
For more details on ginseng harvesting and dealer regulations, visit:
🔗 mdc.mo.gov/about-us/about-regulations/wild-ginseng-harvest-regulations
🔗 mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/american-ginseng
