Ethical Foraging
Herb Walks:
The Art of Wildcrafting
Rediscover the ancient art of foraging and connect with the rich tapestry of wild and native plants. Join us on a transformative six-month journey spanning three seasons as you progress from foraging basics to seamlessly incorporating wild plants into your daily life. Uncover the secrets of providing healthy, free food and culinary delights straight from nature. Enhance your self-reliance and deepen your connection to the landscape. By the end of this immersive experience, you'll confidently share your newfound knowledge with others. Embark on a holistic journey that harmonizes with the natural world and transforms how you view food and nature's gifts.
“The woods and fields are a table always spread.” - Henry David Thoreau
Foraging is the act of finding and gathering wild and native plants. Humans have been foragers and gatherers of plants for most of our existence on this planet. By engaging in this age-old practice, we can provide healthy and free food, culinary delights, and numerous natural-world gifts. We can become more self-reliant and connect more deeply to our landscape.
Over the six months – three seasons, you will go from learning foraging basics to incorporating wild plants into your everyday life and gaining the knowledge to share what you know with others confidently.
Topics covered may include:
Foraging Basics and Precautions
Ethics of Foraging
Plant Observation
Basic Botany & Ecology
Plant Identification: Wildflower Meadow, Forest Edge, and Woodland Species
Foraging for Greens & Edible Wildflowers
Native and Local Culinary Spices & Uses
Harvesting, Preparation, and Wild Ferments
Primitive Skills Integrating Wild Plants into Daily Life
Includes: Homework and additional reading assignments to further advance your study outside of class.
2025 Dates:
May 30 (7pm)
June 6 (7 pm)
July 11 (7 pm)
July 18 (7 pm)
August 1 (7 pm)
August 22 (7 pm)
September 12 (6 pm)
October 3 (6 pm)
Student Outcomes
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Foundational Knowledge of Ethical Foraging
Develop a clear understanding of the principles and responsibilities involved in harvesting wild plants with respect and care. -
Recognition of Local Wild Plants
Gain hands-on experience identifying a variety of native and naturalized medicinal and edible plants in the surrounding ecosystem. -
Understanding of Seasonal and Ecological Patterns
Learn how seasonal cycles, plant lifecycles, and ecological relationships inform responsible harvesting practices. -
Practical Skills for Safe and Respectful Harvesting
Acquire techniques for sustainable gathering, including how, when, and where to harvest while preserving plant populations. -
Confidence in Applying Foraging Knowledge
Build the ability to share your learning with others and begin integrating wild plant knowledge into daily life. -
Connection to a Like-Minded Community
Engage with fellow foragers and plant lovers, creating opportunities for future learning, support, and shared exploration. -
Increased Sensory Awareness and Presence in Nature
Strengthen your observational skills and deepen your felt connection to the land through mindful walking and plant encounters. -
Relationship with the Land as Teacher and Ally
Cultivate a reciprocal relationship with the natural world, recognizing the wisdom, nourishment, and teachings it offers.
Registration Details
Pre-registration is required by Wednesday before the walk.
Friday Evenings 2025
May 30 (7pm)
June 6 (7 pm)
July 11 (7 pm)
July 18 (7 pm)
August 1 (7 pm)
August 22 (7 pm)
September 12 (6 pm)
October 3 (6 pm)
Cost: $30 per person per tour
Children under 12: Free
Group Rate: $25 per person for groups of 6 or more(Use discount code GROUPRATE2025! at checkout to receive special group pricing. Valid for orders of six or more tickets for the same tour.
Senior Discount (65+): $25 per person (use code WALKINGWISDOM at checkout to receive senior discount)
Plus HST tax
Meet your instructor
Shantree Kacera
Shantree Kacera is a world-renowned author and teacher who has been co-directing The Living Centre Eco-Spiritual Education Sanctuary since 1983. He holds a doctorate in Nutritional Medicine and Herbalism and has dedicated his life to promoting integrative approaches to Ayurvedic Medicine, Living Nutrition, and Herbalism. Shantree, who is also an Elder Canadian Herbalist, is widely recognized for his expertise in these fields.
Shantree applies organic veganic forest gardening practices, featuring a unique circular medicinal-wheel forest garden on the 50-acre botanical sanctuary. He has 50-years of experience working with soil ecology and growing organically.
