Shoots & Leaves: Early Spring Foraging Walk

As the land warms and the seasons transition, April gives rise to many of spring’s early comers. Exposed ground under leafless canopies fills with a lush array of bitter greens and early sprouts getting their start for the growing season. The month is characterized by many of the wild edibles familiar to even the non-forager: dandelions, wild onion, ramps, morels, and nettles. But there is still plenty more to learn, appreciate, and tend as the bounty of springtime begins to bud.  

Whether you are interested in wild foods, local plants and ecology, or alternative uses for plants through wildcrafting and medicine-making, you're invited to join our Early Spring Forging Walk, taking place Sunday, April 6th from 10am to 12pm.

Along the way, we will spend time paying tribute to our long shared history with plants, looking beyond the question of "what can I eat?" on the landscape. We will also emphasize ethical foraging and ways of giving back to the land from which we’re taking–reinforcing how thinking like an ecosystem should guide the practice of gathering wild foods.

Beginners and experienced foragers are welcome. 

Program Notes:

This class will take place outdoors. Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Be prepared for walking on uneven terrain and potentially muddy conditions. 

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. 

Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin the class on time. 

The cost for this program is $25/person. Sliding scale options are available to increase accessibility. Young children accompanying an adult may attend without charge.  

About the Instructor: Andrew Leahy

Growing up in a rural town called Sweet Valley, just south of Ricketts Glen, Andrew spent his life fostering a love for the PA wilds. He attended Muhlenberg College in Allentown and majored in English Literature and Music Composition while exploring regional ecology, slow food, composting, gardening, and foraging in the spaces between. This eventually led him to the staff of the Horn Farm Center, where, as Community Engagement Coordinator, he organizes educational opportunities, coordinates volunteers, runs social media, blogs, and assists with development and outreach projects. 

Andrew is an avid forager and student of wild spaces, interested in rekindling ways of living on the landscape that are place-sourced and mutually nuturing. In 2023, he had the privilege of enriching his experience by taking the Horn Farm Center's Land Steward Training Program. Beyond the Horn Farm, Andrew leads a book club for the Lancaster Composting Co-Ops, volunteers as a land steward with the Lancaster Conservancy, and spends Saturdays selling produce at Green Circle Organics in Lancaster Central Market.