LAST WORD: Megan Boledovich

BOLEDOVICH EGHAN

PRINT's official urban forager dishes on her unique job.

byMichael Fiedler

MEGHAN BOLEDOVICH IS one of New York City’s full time restaurant foragers. She recently joined photojournalist Michael Fiedler as she collected fresh produce for PRINT restaurant in Hells Kitchen. Michael Fiedler- How would you describe what you do for a living? MB- I truly would call myself an “urban forager” since I spend many mornings at the Union Square Market sourcing produce from the regions unique growers. Oftentimes I can be found on the rooftop garden of PRINT restaurant tending to native plants and herbs that we use in the kitchen and bar program. MF- Do you always find everything you’re looking for in the markets? MB- Mostly, but every once in a while I get to escape the city and visit the farms we work with and learn more about their process and their stories. It’s this mash-up of nature and urban landscapes that makes my position unique. From time to time I also go on actual foraging expeditions for wild edibles which is always an eye-opening experience.

MF- Why is that? MB- Unlike farming, foraging is fully controlled by nature and you are working directly with the land and its untamed bounty. All of these combined aspects of my job help me to have a deep connection to the land, the farmers who work it and the kitchen workers who clean and prepare it into nourishment for others. MF- How does this approach help a large urban environment like New York City? MB- Sustainability, with a low impact on our city and planet is an important endeavor we can all take a part in. Personally, I am proud to play a role in this process for a restaurant which takes this mindset seriously. MF- How can New Yorkers be more mindful and helpful with issues such as sustainability and renewable food sources? MB- Whether it's by donating excess food, seperating our compost, or sourcing from biodynamic farmers, there are myriad ways we can strive towards zero impact. We can always do more. I’m looking forward to the next decade where we will continue to feed people and spark joy sustainably. DT

photos: Joshua McHugh arch: Ike, Kligerman, & Barkley

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