Preregistration is required for this program designed for adults.
Gather together as we capture the flush of wild edible spring greens during this progressive station-based foraging day for novice and experienced foragers alike. We’ll make the most of the season as we blend in-the-field hands-on activities interspersed with short sit-down classes. We’ll showcase multiple options for capturing and preserving spring greens in their prime and demonstrate a forager’s basket-full of options for how to use them as we make and taste light food bites. You’ll head home with some make and take swag bags full of native goods. While we’ll touch on 25+ edible species, as well as several poisonous look-alikes, much of the focus will be on the following:
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Wood nettle harvest and preparation—Hike to patch
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Make and take sassafras filé powder—Hike to patch
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Stuffed grape leaves—Hike to collect, cook near barn
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Making and using powdered greens—Sit down (near barn)
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Nettle salve making—Sit down (near barn)
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Native Perennial Polyculture Plot tour plus sochan & cup plant harvest—Short walk
This program meets at the Creekside Barn at our Long Branch Farm & Trails location (6926 Gaynor Rd., Goshen, OH 45122).
What to expect:
- This foraging experience will blend a partial hands-on activity with hiking, harvesting, and food prep.
Is food served?
- Light bite food samples will be shared throughout the program.
- As we won’t be serving a full meal, consider bringing your own snacks.
- Vegan-friendly lite bite options will be available.
How should I dress?
- Dress for the weather, and wear long pants that are either old or resistant to getting caught by briars and burrs.
- This class takes place outside and/or in a non-air conditioned barn.
- Be prepared for an outdoor class that involves on-trail walking with some off-trail harvesting.
What should I bring?
- If you are able, please bring your own mug, plate, spoon, hand pruners or scissors, and portable chair. We'll have extra cups, spoons, pruners, and chairs available in case you forget yours.
Can I come and forage on my own?
- Always ask for permission from landowner before foraging. Cincinnati Nature Center sees upwards of 200,000 visitors per year—if even a fraction of those visitors harvested, it would have an impact on the site (and what’s available for programs). Please join us for a foraging program.
Member adult $50; nonmember adult $60 (includes daily admission).
By registering below, you agree to the following:
Pet Policy for Programs/Events: For the comfort and safety of all guests, no pets are allowed at programs or events. Service animals specifically trained to aid a person with a disability are welcome. Therapy animals, whose function is to provide comfort or emotional support, do not qualify as service animals. For more information about pets on our grounds, please see our pet policies on our website.
Cancellation Policy: Please note that cancellations must be made at least two weeks in advance of the event. No refunds or transfers of fees will occur if the request is made less than two weeks prior to the event. All programs continue, rain or shine. In the event that Cincinnati Nature Center cancels a program, full refunds will be issued.
Program Policy: Cincinnati Nature Center may update the status or format of programs based on conditions at the time of the program.
Media Release: All participants (18 and older) associated with this transaction grant permission to Cincinnati Nature Center to utilize images, likenesses, actions, or statements in any form taken during a visit to the Nature Center, Nature Center sponsored event, or virtual presentation for the purpose of promoting the Nature Center in perpetuity.
Important Information For All Program Registrants: Please retain your order number or print off/save an electronic copy of the email acknowledgement as a receipt. You may be asked for your order number from your transaction to gain entry at the gate/to attend your program.