Mushroom buyer: True Dzūkians go to the forest while they are still alive

Mushroom and berry collectors in Lithuania's Dzūkija region are lamenting a decline in their seasonal earnings, recalling times when a single season's harvest could sustain them for an entire year. The traditional livelihoods are facing challenges as fewer experienced foragers remain in the emptying villages and towns of the region.

Compounding the issue is the influx of imported mushrooms, particularly from Russia, which are not subject to sanctions. This competition drives down prices for local collectors. For instance, on Friday, chanterelles were being bought for 5.70 euros per kilogram, but prices are volatile and expected to drop further, potentially crossing the 5-euro threshold soon.

One mushroom buyer in Leipalingis described the demanding nature of his work. "With weather like this week, when the midday temperature approaches 30 degrees, it's impossible to forage during the day, only early in the morning." He noted that pickers often return home to change before bringing their haul, requiring him to be present all day. Some local buyers, like the Šidlauskas family, have ceased operations this year due to low profitability and their son's relocation.

While collectors are currently bringing in 3 to 5 kilograms of chanterelles, the prized porcini mushrooms are yet to appear in significant numbers in southern Lithuania. High temperatures have interrupted their growth, though they are being reported in other regions. The main porcini season and purchasing typically begin in autumn, with prices expected to be similar to last year if the harvest is good.