Martin County Sheriff’s Agricultural Detectives will be on extra patrol in an effort to deter trespassers who are going onto to private, and state protected property to pick saw palmetto berries.
So far 11 trespass warnings have been issued and 6 arrests have been made.
Palmetto berry season is underway lasting through October.
The berries have become a popular commodity for pickers due to the increase in cost per pound being paid by buyers. The buyers than sell the berries to pharmaceutical companies who convert them into supplements used for prostate health, and for other medicinal purposes.
Possessing, and picking palmetto berries is NOT illegal, however, trespassing on private property, or state protected land is.