The ancient hunter-gatherer society is morphing into more of a crafter-marketer society, thanks to a resurgence of farmers markets, art fairs and an interest in traditional skills and sustainability.

A new handbook from the University of Minnesota Extension aims to be of service, whether you're gathering morels for a farmers market, making balsam wreaths for the holidays, or want to manage your woodlot wisely.

"Minnesota Harvester Handbook" is a 118-page, spiral-bound guide that covers the biological and ecological aspects of harvesting from nature. But it also offers practical information about doing the necessary homework to understand market forces, and breaks down regulations regarding use of public and private lands.

The book is divided by season, with chapters including harvesting tips — whether for fiddlehead ferns, thimbleberries or dogwood — but it also explores a product's cultural importance. Whether people gather for personal use or for wider markets, an Extension release notes that the book may help readers "explore new and different ways to incorporate natural resources into their lifestyles and livelihoods, and will learn more about the region's products and people in the process."

The guide, with color photos, sells for $24.95. To learn more or order, visit http://z.umn.edu/rnd.

Orders will be received in seven to 10 days or less, so if you're thinking about this as a last-minute Christmas gift, print out a copy of the book cover, then wrap it around a crimson twig of dogwood tied with a bow. â–¡

Kim Ode • 612-673-7185