Expert: Jim Hyland - 1/14/2001

Question
I would like information on how I can harvest pinecones from any foresty service. Or where can I buy pinecones in bulk?
I have read that several forestries gather cones for the seeds for reforestation. Where do the cones go?
Any lead or help would be extremely appreciated!
Thanks for your time!
Trizia Lee, The PineConeLady@aol.com

Answer
I assume you want the cones and not the seed. Here in Alabama we have seed orchards and harvest the cones and send the cones to a plant that extracts the seed from the cones. The cones are not gotten back, just the seed. I am sure this is the same way in other states either the state or a private company harvestes the seed and cones.
I would suggest you going to the site www.forestry.about.com
-- and looking under the "subject" for "Tree planting" and this will take you to a list --go to Directory of Forest nurseries-- here you can find addresses/ PX #s for nurseries by state. Contact one of them and they should be able to help you.