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From friction fire to medicine to baskets to natural dyes to food, plants are part of the foundation of all developed cultures. Come along and learn some the edible, medicinal and utilitarian trees, shrubs and plants in our own area. Plants are a true gateway into our understanding of local ecosystems, personal health and deeper connection to our landscapes. On this easy to moderate hike, we will seek out species of plants that have been used for centuries as well as newer arrivals and talk about the benefits that they provide for ourselves and the earth. We will also discuss proper identification and harvesting practices, processing and preservation as well as their traditional and modern uses. Join us for a full sensory experience into the world of plants!

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Build a Self Bow

2 Weekends: April 26/27, May 3/4

10 am - 4 pm

$550 / participant, includes an Osage Orange bow stave ($100+ value)

4 students maximum

Ages 18+ (16+ with parent)

Location: Vulpes Outdoor Classroom, Bloomfield, NJ

Bow making is an essential survival skill. Making and shooting projectile points from a bendy stick allowed our ancestors to procure larger harvests of meat with less personal risk.

The art of bow building has advanced greatly since it’s conception, but the concepts remain the same. With some simple techniques, a bowyer is able to carefully remove wood from a selected log and turn it into a functional hunting tool that can last generations.

Not only that, but the bow itself is a powerful symbol of precision, self-sufficiency and artistry. Something shifts when you hold a finished self-bow in your hand…

My #1 preferred bow wood is Osage Orange for many reasons. This class will cover the proper harvesting, seasoning, storage, processing, shaping, tillering and finally shooting of a bow design of your choice

Not only will participants leave with a finished longbow, they will have the information and experience to continue their bowyer’s journey for many years.

All tools and materials provided.

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Willow wrestling: Ribbed baskets

Saturday & Sunday, June 28 & 29

11 am - 4 pm

$250 / participant (includes material fee)

Ages 18+ (16+ with parent)

Willow is an amazing resource in our area. It is flexible, strong, and beautiful which makes it perfect for a wide range of basketry styles. Although it can feel more like Willow Wrestling at times, with a few techniques and a bit of patience, it can be used to make beautiful vessels that will last generations.

Each student will be making their own ribbed harvesting basket to take home

We will also cover the identification, harvesting, storage, and preparation of the different local materials that are ideal for wicker-style basketry.

All tools and materials provided

Location: Vulpes Outdoor Classroom, Bloomfield, NJ

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What The Tea? Podcast episode 9

On guiding with sam combs Episode 1:

Springtime Plant walk

Build a Self Bow

Willow wrestling: Ribbed baskets

vulpes wild arts