INTRODUCTION This toolkit aims to provide you with the information and guidance you need to host a safe and successful foraging event. It covers the different aspects of planning and delivery to consider and includes a template to adapt for your own use. It also shows you how to evaluate your event and learn what works well, as well as what can be adapted or improved for any future events. Foraging events can introduce people to some of the most breath-taking parts of Scotland while enjoying the many benefits of wild plants and foraging. There are numerous benefits to running a foraging event, from supporting health and wellbeing, sustainable tourism, access to natural environment, creative activities, storytelling, promoting local food and drink, and supporting other rural businesses. Events can range from coastal foraging to herbal wellness; wild food feasts to fireside evenings and topical talks. It’s an ideal opportunity to discover the delicious and useful species on your doorstep or discover unknown areas: from the rolling hills of Lanarkshire and southern Scotland, the golden beaches and fields of Fife, the mountains and coast of Moray, the woodlands and lochs of Forth Valley and Lomond to the diverse islands of Orkney to the north.
Why run a foraging or wild food event?
• To encourage engagement with our natural environment and further the understanding of responsible foraging and wild foods. • To offer a wild food experience or a special ‘taste of place’ menu to excite your customers. To • offer something new to local people and attract visitors from further afield. • To celebrate our rural areas. • To offer an inspiring activity suitable for various age groups and physical abilities. To • offer a mix of events that link foraging to health and wellbeing, crafts, wild food and appreciation and connection with our landscape. • To enable new collaborations with other local businesses. • We hope you enjoy the experience and foraging becomes a regular part of your calendar.
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