Abstract:
Ginseng, an endangered plant that has medicinal properties, is highly prized by plant poachers. The dried roots sell from $270 to $600 a pound. Stealing an endangered plant is also a felony, but that hasn't stopped poachers from targeting growing areas near the Blue Ridge Parkway and in the Great Smokies. Nickens discusses the work of North Carolina Department of Agriculture agents in combating plant theft.