Winter Harvesting in Fairbanks, AK: Birch Bark, Spruce Needles, and Other Winter Bounty

Hello friends! It's Momma J here, and today I’m excited to share one of my favorite winter activities—harvesting natural resources right here in the heart of Alaska. Winter in Fairbanks is cold, but it’s also full of opportunities to gather some of the best materials nature has to offer. From birch bark to spruce needles, there’s a bounty of natural goods just waiting to be harvested.

Of course, we always approach harvesting with respect and care, ensuring we’re doing it in an ethical and sustainable way. Let me tell you a little about how we do it here on the homestead.

Ethical Birch Bark Harvesting

We all know the iconic birch trees that dot the landscape here in Alaska. Their white bark is not only beautiful, but it’s also incredibly useful. Whether it’s for crafting, kindling, or herbal remedies, birch bark has been a part of Alaskan homesteading for generations.

When harvesting birch bark, it’s important to remember a few key things:

• Harvest from mature trees: We always choose older, healthy trees that can afford to share a bit of their bark. Never strip the young ones!

• Take just what you need: A small piece here and there goes a long way—no need to overdo it.

• Winter is the best time: In the cold months, the sap is low, and the bark is easier to peel without causing too much harm to the tree.

We use birch bark for a lot of things here on the homestead, from making herbal tea blends to crafting and even using it for fire-starting. It's such a versatile material, and knowing how to harvest it properly is key.

Spruce Needles for Health and Wellness

Next up, we’ve got spruce trees. These beautiful evergreens are just as valuable as birch, especially during the winter. The spruce needles are packed with Vitamin C and have all sorts of health benefits, which is why they’re a staple in our herbal remedies.

Here’s how I gather them:

• Take a few sprigs: I never strip an entire branch. I always take a few needles from several trees, making sure to leave plenty behind for the trees to stay healthy.

• Fresh green tips: The best spruce needles come from the new growth, so I focus on those fresh, vibrant green tips.

• Use gloves: Spruce needles can be tough on the hands, especially in the winter, so a good pair of gloves is always handy.

I love making a spruce needle tea during the cold months—it’s not only delicious, but it’s a great way to boost your immune system. I also use spruce needles in some of my bath soaks, as they’re known for their antiseptic properties.

Other Winter Resources

There are plenty of other winter resources to harvest as well. You’d be surprised how much you can gather during the colder months:

• Wintergreen: This hardy little herb is great for making minty teas and helps with sore muscles or digestion.

• Cedar: Another evergreen tree that has so many uses, including teas and making natural cleaning products.

• Moss: While not something I harvest often, moss can be used for insulation or crafting, especially for those homesteading projects.

Harvesting Tips and Tools

Winter harvesting in Fairbanks can be tricky because of the cold, but with a little preparation, it’s something anyone can do. Here are some tips:

• Dress warmly: The cold here can really sneak up on you, so layers are a must—especially warm boots and gloves.

• Sharp tools: When harvesting bark or needles, a sharp knife or pruning shears make the job easier and cleaner.

• Respect the land: Always take only what you need and leave plenty behind. Sustainability is key in everything we do here on the homestead.

Final Thoughts

Winter harvesting is one of my favorite parts of homesteading in Alaska. There's something so rewarding about going out in the cold, gathering what nature provides, and knowing you’re making the most of the land around you. Whether it’s birch bark for crafting or spruce needles for wellness, winter offers a wealth of natural resources that can help keep our family healthy, warm, and prepared for the months ahead.

I hope this post inspires you to go out and explore the winter wonders of your own backyard, while always being mindful of the balance between taking and giving back to nature. And if you have any questions or tips of your own, I’d love to hear from you!

Stay warm and happy harvesting!

Momma J

Frozen Herbalist