FORAGING

Hiking with a purpose

Foraging, or the gathering of food and resources in wild places, can bring depth to the otherwise commonplace hike. However, foraging education and safety are key. “In our classes, we teach that foraging isn’t just going out and collecting food,” says Alexis Campbell, Executive Director of Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education in York. “It’s having a reciprocal relationship with the natural world.” That reciprocity requires mindfulness, informed decision making, and humility, Campbell says. Beginners can learn plant identification in their bioregion by tapping into resources like field guides, books, and experienced foragers.

It’s imperative to note that you should never consume plants if you’re not absolutely certain they’re safe to consume, as there are a lot of lookalikes, and some plants only have edible portions.

Campbell emphasizes the importance of being aware of environmental impacts of foraging, as well as the land you’re on and its foraging laws. At Horn Farm Center, class participants can learn from experts like Wilson Alvarez, Calyx Liddick of the Northern Appalachia School, and Jonathan Darby of Riverbend Foraging. Monthly foraging walks take place on the first Sunday of every month and twoday foraging intensives happen seasonally (interested participants should book all classes in advance). Both beginners and advanced foragers can find merit in Horn Farm Center’s educational opportunities.

4945 Horn Rd, York, PA 17406 hornfarmcenter.org

717-757-6441