Unleash Your Inner Forager: Join the Blackberry Picking Adventure!

Step into nature this Saturday, August 31, and embark on a delightful journey reminiscent of Sylvia Plath's enchanting poem “Blackberrying.” In her verses, she captures the sensory bliss of picking blackberries—a heavenly experience that calls to the adventurous spirit in all of us. But this isn’t just about the sweet taste of blackberries; it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact on our ecosystem.

Discover the Wildcrafting Event at Buford Park

Rooted Remedies invites you to the Wildcrafting at Buford Park event, where you can partake in the enjoyable yet significant task of picking blackberries. This event focuses on two particularly invasive species: the Himalayan and Armenian blackberries. While these berries may be delicious, their dominance in the environment poses a threat to native plants, including Oregon's beloved Pacific blackberry.

Why Remove Invasive Blackberries?

• Resource Competition: The Himalayan and Armenian varieties consume more resources than native flora, disrupting the balance of our ecosystems.
• Support Native Plants: By removing these interloping blackberries, we help create space for native species to thrive.
• Community Engagement: Join fellow nature enthusiasts in a hands-on effort to restore local habitats.

Create Herbal Medicine from Your Harvest

As you pick these opportunistic berries, you’ll also have the chance to transform them into herbal medicine. Under the guidance of experts, you’ll learn to concoct delicious blackberry shrubs—a refreshing drink made with vinegar and sugar that balances sweet and sour flavors. Not only are blackberries tasty, but they are also packed with antioxidants and essential minerals.

What to Bring and Wear

To fully enjoy your blackberry-picking adventure, here are some essentials to consider:

1. Clothing: Wear attire you don’t mind getting a little messy, including sturdy shoes that can handle muddy conditions.
2. Sun Protection: Bring along a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.
3. Hydration: Stay refreshed by bringing plenty of water.
4. Snacks: Keep your energy up with some quick bites.
5. Curiosity: A notebook and pen can be handy for jotting down observations or recipes!

Event Details

Join us for Wildcrafting at Buford Park from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Buford Park Native Plant Nursery, located at 34649 Frank Parrish Road. Don’t forget to RSVP at RootedRemedies.co. The cost for participation is $65.

What do you think?

• Should invasive species like Himalayan blackberries be eradicated at all costs?
• How do you feel about using invasive plants for herbal remedies?
• Is foraging for wild berries a sustainable practice?
• What are your thoughts on community-led conservation efforts?
• Have you ever participated in an event like this? What was your experience?

Join the conversation! Your insights could inspire others to take part in this unique and rewarding experience.