What could you find to eat in your backyard?

Indian Creek Nature Center staff members Jan Aiels & Christine Kirpes gave an intriguing presentation on wild edible plants. They explained the basics of foraging, the plants' uses, and preparation. The above photo shows Jan explaining that stinging nettles are edible.

Tour participants were able to try a few of the wild plants prepared by nature center staff. These ranged from cattails, garlic mustard, dandelion greens, blue violets, raspberry leaf tea, elderberry blossom tea, stinging nettles, and ground acorns that could be added to breads, pancakes, or muffins!

Participants enjoyed trying these wild foods before Christine led a tour around the nature center to point out what is edible and growing right in our backyards. It was surprising and fascinating to learn what abundance there is all around us!