Walking Tour: Wild Edibles with Russ Cohen Bidwell House

We Are Still Here:
Northeastern Indigenous Peoples

University Days 2022 

Walking Tour:

The Berkshire Region is home to over 100 species of edible wild plants, which were identified and used by the Mohicans. Knowledge of plants, many of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts, was shared with European settlers who arrived in the early 18th century. Join wild edibles enthusiast Russ Cohen, author of the book Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten, on a two-hour ramble on the grounds of the Bidwell House Museum in Monterey. Along with encountering more than a dozen wild edible plants, pending favorable weather conditions, several edible mushroom species may be included as well. Keys to the identification of each plant 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.

There is no rain date, but Russ will lead the walk in a light rain. If the forecast is for more severe weather, participants will be notified of cancellation at least 24 hours in advance.

Pre-registration is required. Register safely and securely online or call 413.236.2190 (M-F 9:00 am - 4:00 pm) to register by phone.

Learn more about University Days 2022: We Are Still Here: Indigenous Peoples of the Northeast. Lectures, art shows, walking tours and more!

Learning about the United State’s Native American Heritage is vital to weaving a more equitable social fabric for everyone. If you would like to contribute to our continuing work towards this goal click here to make a contribution to OLLI’s Northeast Indigenous Initiative, found in the “Designation” drop down menu.

We Are Still Here: Indigenous Peoples of the Northeast is supported in part by grants from the Massachusetts Cultural Council through the local cultural councils of Alford-Egremont, Dalton, Great Barrington, Lee, Lenox, Mount Washington, North Berkshire, Otis, Pittsfield, Richmond, Sandisfield, Sheffield and Stockbridge and with in-kind support and partnership from Berkshire Community College, Bidwell House and Housatonic Heritage.