The Acton Arboretum is home to over 80 species of edible wild plants, many of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. These include native species, like Black Walnuts and Black Raspberry; non-native weeds, like Burdock and Chicory; and invasive species, like Autumn Olive and Dame’s Rocket. Join Russ Cohen, author of the book Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten, and the Middlesex Conservation District on a two-hour ramble through the Arboretum to encounter and learn about at least 18 species of edible wild plants and how they function in the landscape. Keys to the identification of each species will be provided, along with info on edible portion(s), season(s) of availability and preparation methods, as well as guidelines for safe and environmentally-responsible foraging. We hope you will join us to learn how to identify plants, forage safely and improve your local (backyard?) foodscape.
Unless the weather is truly unmanageable or dangerous, this is a rain or shine event. Please dress for the weather, try to arrive early, and consider carpooling. Parking is limited. If the on-site parking is full, please park on the right side of the driveway, nose in on the grass or behind the central fire station or behind the Acton Town Hall/library at 472 Main Street.
Because of the parking limitations, and the popular time of year for the Arboretum, we are keeping the group size quite small. Please email middlesexconservationdistrict@gmail.com if your plans should change or if you wish to be added to a waitlist.
Last, but not least, if you wish to receive an event reminder or weather update, you must subscribe to our email list so we are able to contact you: check the box to subscribe when checking out for your registration.
To register click here.