Foraging in the summer teaches us about the ebbs and flows of the seasons.

From striking abundance to seasonal stress, we become intimately aware of the vagaries of climate, water, and heat. In this way, foraging is as much a fulfilling activity as it is a humbling teacher: asking us to observe, wait, tend, withhold, and honor the land as much as we celebrate the harvest. 

With this important reality in mind, we can still find plenty to enjoy and learn as we reach the height of the warm season. Refreshing fruits like sumac drupes and autumn olive share the land with nutritious and medicinal berries, flowers and greens, often most vibrant in the cooler, shadier microclimates that provide relief from the summer heat. 

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 Mid-Summer Forging Walk, taking place Sunday, August 2nd 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:

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. More details about parking will be communicated in a reminder email days before the program. 

Audience: 

While this class is suited for adult learning, children are welcome and encouraged to attend. Any child above 13 must be registered separately. Children 12 and younger may attend without charge, but must be accompanied by a registering adult.

Cost: 

The standard cost for this program is $25/person. Sliding scale options are available to support accessibility.

Dogs:

Since the Horn Farm is a working farm with active restoration spaces, we do not allow dogs in our programs. Thank you for understanding.  

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: Jon Darby

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 and Agroforestry 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.