Here at Stillwaters, we tend to think of humans as part of the food web — just one more critter in the woods. Because we are.

Humans are animals that may be at the top of the food chain, although some would debate if we are the top or somewhat further down the list. But we have enormous impact on the rest of the food web as we consume natural resources and food to sustain us and our lifestyles.

So, if we are going to be responsible residents in the community, including our natural community, we have to think of all our neighbors and fellow residents when we decide to consume natural resources. I think about this every time I cut a bough or pick a flower, collect firewood, or move some rocks.

We certainly hope that we collectively think about this when we cut down a forest to build a house or office. The environmental planners at the Kitsap County Department of Community Development can do some of this for us, because they review building permits; but they are working for a minimum level of protection required. I think we want to well beyond the minimums and think about what is best for our Earth home and our community.

The point is not to consume nothing, since all of us critters in the woods need to consume some things to live comfortably. The point is to always leave enough for the natural resources to re-generate, which they will if we don’t take too much at once. Moderation is the key word.

I was reminded of this when the Kitsap County Parks Department sent out a reminder to all of us about harvesting mushrooms this fall, which has been a pretty good year for mushrooms. It’s easy to forget that mushrooms are important for many species besides humans.

“The forests in Kitsap County host environments for mushrooms which are shared between humans and wildlife. Mushrooms are consumed by deer, bear, small mammals, and mollusks. Some rodents rely on mushrooms for a significant part of their food supply and are, in turn, primary prey for larger species such as owls, hawks and eagles. Preserving the diversity of mushrooms in our local forest ecosystems is essential to Kitsap County natural parks.

“To maintain a balance between humans and wildlife, the Parks Department will follow guidelines established by the U.S. Forest Service for incidental removal of mushrooms for personal use. No permit is required for incidental removal of mushrooms to gather an amount for a meal. Daily limit for personal use is one gallon. Harvested chanterelle mushrooms must have a cap diameter of one inch or more. Gatherers are reminded to stay on trails and inner roadways as many are surrounded by sensitive ecosystems.”

I would emphasize two things — take only what you need for personal meals, and stay on the trails. I am frequently surprised by the number of people who will wander off our trails and even walk on and destroy small plants, all in the name of exploration.

Regarding mushrooms in particular, but applicable to eating any natural plants, the Parks Department reminds us that “there are just as many poisonous mushrooms as there are delicious species of mushrooms. Use caution when picking mushrooms. Use guidebooks and pamphlets for identification.

“Proper harvesting techniques provide the best possible recovery of mushrooms sites year after year. Mushroom stems are to be cut at or above ground level, keeping the growing site as undisturbed as possible. Use only a knife or scissors to harvest mushrooms.”

In general, the message is clear and well-heeded. Please be careful and respectful out there, and leave the woods and the Earth as close as you can to the way you found them.

— Naomi Maasberg is director of Stillwaters Environmental Learning Center. Contact her at  naomi@stillwatersenvironmentalcenter.org.