Taking The Wild Out of Wild Leeks: The Dangers of Overharvesting Ramps
Festivals are dedicated to it. Chefs are building menus around it. Roadside stands are selling it. What is it everyone is so excited about? Ramps. Often referred to as wild leeks or spring onions, ramps (Allium Tricoccum) are found in the Appalachian mountain region. They thrive as a woodland crop in rich soil and are among the first spring greens ready for foraging each year. It was only a matter of time before foraging went from personal consumption to monetary gain. With rising demand, the wild ramp population is at risk.