WWF Releases Ideas for Saving At-Risk Goldenseal, American Ginseng

WWF Releases Ideas for Saving At-Risk Goldenseal, AmericanGinseng

WASHINGTON--In the October issue of Conservation Biology, it wasreported that American ginseng and goldenseal are at risk of being overharvestedunless funding is generated to support existing management and protectionefforts.

In a press release issued by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), ChristopherRobbins, program officer for TRAFFIC North America, responded to that report."The lack of reliable public and private funding to better study, manageand protect [these herbs'] wild populations could lead to their depletion."

Robbins offered recommendations on how to raise funds, including one idea fora trust fund based on the philosophy behind the Pittman-Robertson Act, whichauthorizes appropriation of funds for wildlife restoration through a federalexcise tax levied on sporting arms, ammunition, archery equipment and handguns.Robbins also suggested that monies generated from the sale of herbal productscontaining plants harvested from U.S. wildlands could be used for this fund.Robbins added that "consumers should contact their congressionalrepresentative to voice their concerns about the lack of funding for bettermanagement of these gems of our forest." For additional information, visit www.wwf.org