VDoF Acorn and Seed Collection – 2026

The VA Department of Forestry (VDoF) Acorn and Seed Collection Program was established to sustain the native tree population in Virginia by collecting native tree seeds, raising trees on farms, and reforesting areas that may have been destroyed by fire or disease. For 2026, Virginia Master Naturalists has again partnered with VDoF to collect various acorns and tree seeds. Please check-out VDoF’s sustainability program for an identification chart and seed types being collected for 2026:

Acorn and Nut Collection link : Virginia Department of Forestry

Process Changes for 2026:

Each FMN collection site will have an FMN manager. Please contact the manager (TBD) with questions or to help administer the site (monitor bin or transport seeds).  Otherwise simply drop off seeds in appropriate containers as they are collected.

Notably, the Fairfax County Government Center (Herrity building) is NOT a drop spot for 2026.

FMN Collection Bin Locations have not all been confirmed for 2026. Sites will be announced via a Listserv message very soon. The DoF link above indicates detail will be announced in early September. At the time of this article, FMN is waiting for final process details from DoF.

Collection requirements:
1. Please DO NOT collect acorns or any seed in plastic bags. They will mildew and spoil.
2. Please separate different seed types into separate bags and include a leaf from the tree to help with positive identification.
3. Please label the bag with type of seed, collection date, collection site (zip code at least) and approximate weight.

Record FMN Hours: S400: VDoF Acorn and Seed Collecting — (VDoF)