Foraging is the act of finding and gathering wild food and medicine - but it is so much more. This course is an invitation to rekindle our age-old relationships with the land beneath our feet - to develop the skills, knowledge, and practices that are a critical part of our sense of place. Through this work, we can provide ourselves with healthy, FREE food and medicine, become more self-reliant, and connect on a deeper level to the landscape in which we live.
This weekend-long session will provide foundational knowledge for those interested in beginning (or deepening) their path towards building a relationship with the land, incorporating wild plants into their everyday life, and gaining the knowledge to confidently share with others. Expect a diverse array of lecture, conversation, general plant walks, hands-on exercises, and the opportunity for plenty of tasting of both raw and prepared wild foods.
Topics covered will include:
- Safe practices
- Ethical considerations
- Basic botany including: terminology, plant parts, and plant families
- Plant observation and identification
- Understanding and using plant keys
- Culinary uses - Harvesting, preparation, cooking and tasting
- Utilitarian uses - making natural plant cordage
What to bring:
- Notebook - For taking notes and doing illustrations. Lined and unlined may be helpful.
- Foraging tool if you have them (No need to purchase if not): Pocket knife (non-serrated), scissors, gloves, bags or basket. We’ll cover tools in our first class, if you need recommendations. There will be extras to loan if needed.
- Field guide if you have one you use already (No need to purchase if not)
- Water bottle
- Lunch/Snack - Each day will include a short lunch break
Please Note: Class will meet on both Saturday, November 14th and Sunday, November 15th from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM. Price of the class includes both 6-hour days of instruction.
Program Notes:
Environment:
This class will take place outdoors, rain or shine, along walking trails in meadow and woodland ecosystems at the Horn Farm. Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly.
Accessibility:
This program will involve walking on uneven, hilly terrain. Be prepared for varied and potentially muddy or snowy conditions. Walking pace is leisurely with frequent stops for discussion.
Arrival:
Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin the class on time.
Audience:
This class is geared towards adult learning, but children 12 and older are welcome to attend with an adult and separate registration.
Cost:
The standard cost for this program is $125/person. This includes both days of the intensive program.
Service Animals & Pets:
Service animals, active and in-training, are permitted. All other animals and pets must remain at home. The Horn Farm is a working farm with sensitive restoration areas, so we only allow animals in cases of medical need.
Cancellation:
All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here.
About the Instructor:
Jonathan Darby is a wild foods enthusiast and educator, avid gardener, former farmer, and has served the Horn Farm Center in varying capacities for over 15 years. He currently serves as Farm Manager. Jonathan received his Permaculture Design Certification in 2011 from Susquehanna Permaculture and in 2014 completed his Permaculture Teacher Training through Dynamic Ecological Design. He is married with 2 kids and 3 cats.
York, 17406
United States
| Class Fee for 2-Day Intensive | $125.00 |