Authorities Seek To Curb Ginseng Plant Thefts In Indiana

Associated Press

*Dan J. Pittillo/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service*

CORYDON, Ind. (AP) — Authorities are seeking to curb the theft of ginseng from land in southern Indiana.

The state Department of Natural Resources says 44-year-old Charles Cole Jr. of New Salisbury is wanted on a warrant related to thefts in Harrison County. The DNR says conservation officers on Oct. 10 investigated a trespassing report where a man identified as Cole was spotted on a trail camera.

The DNR says Cole is believed to have stolen ginseng plants from the property and elsewhere. He's also suspected in the theft of ginseng in Washington County.

The root of the plant is touted as an herbal medicine. Harvesting and sale are regulated . The DNR says Cole is believed to have sold at least 40 pounds of ginseng, much of which may have been stolen.

Tags:Indiana Department of Natural Resources

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

New hardiness zones won't change much, but some Indiana gardeners try out new plants

Half the country is now in a slightly warmer hardiness zone than they were a decade ago. These zones show an average of the coldest temperature on the coldest night every year for the past 30 years.

Public Affairs / March 8, 2024

Legislative leaders say 2024 session more substantive than planned, but much more to come in 2025

Prior to 2024, Republican legislative leaders called for a return to a normal session, with an agenda focused on small tweaks to existing policies. Where it ended up was with bills far more substantive than many had imagined.

Public Affairs / February 20, 2024

Economic Enhancement District for Mile Square will not be repealed

Indianapolis’ planned economic enhancement district, or EED, will not be repealed. A bill put the funding tool at risk but an amendment saves the district - with some caveats.