Don’t pick the berries at Signal Hill. Parks Canada is asking visitors to refrain from picking berries due to the associated negative impact on wildlife, the delicate hilltop ecosystem at the site, as well as visitor safety factors.

The agency says wild berries are an important food source for a variety of animals including insects, birds and small to medium-sized mammals. Removing an important food source can impact the survivability of certain species. An abundant berry crop that is left available for animals also means more natural foods for them to eat, and less attraction to human food sources according to Parks Canada.

Most national historic sites and national parks prohibit berry picking.

Meanwhile, berry pickers on the hill are questioning the decision and are fearful of the loss of another Newfoundland and Labrador tradition.

Some seniors picking on the hill, say they’ve done so their entire lives, and without signage in place, many are continuing to do so.