“Wild Berries and Majestic Views: Tips to Alaska’s Best Berry Picking Adventures”

Edible berries are abundant in our great state! Learn which ones are safe. The best way to identify safe berries is by the leaf, as some berries look similar to non-edible varieties.  There are online sources to help you along the way.

https://www.uaf.edu/ces/food/berries/

https://itgrowsinalaska.community.uaf.edu/category/berries/

Tips

• Berries are sweetest in the morning before the sun heats them up
• Wear appropriate clothing for the area.  Long sleeves, pants, waterproof shoes
• Be wildlife aware
• Be gentle when picking to avoid damage to the plant
• Don’t over-pick, leave some for the wildlife

You have your bucket full, now what?

• Clean your harvest!
• Freezing is quick and easy, then can be used for various things later. Recommendation: freeze cleaned berries in a single layer on a cookie sheet, then transfer them to freezer bags or containers once they have completely frozen.
• Canning or preserving; this is a bit more time-consuming, but a delicious way to keep them for a long period of time.