The following information is from Sudbury Valley Trustees: 

Sudbury Valley Trustees presents Russ Cohen, expert forager and author of “Wild Plants I Have Known...and Eaten," at Wolbach Farm on Tuesday, April 5 from 7 to 9 p.m.

This spring as you ponder your home landscaping plan, you might consider recent trends to use more native species in your yard. Join Russ for a 90-minute slideshow entitled “Nibbling Natives in your Backyard and Beyond.” Russ will feature at least three dozen species of native edible wild plants suitable for your home landscape or nibbling on as you encounter them in other locales.

Native species are quite useful for attracting and sustaining beneficial insects, plus many native species are edible by people too. Perhaps this additional incentive is all you need to add native species to your yard. Juneberries (Amelanchier spp.), for example, are equally edible by songbirds and people. The taste of the ripe fruit is like a cross between cherries and almonds.  

There are also several species of wonderful native nut trees. Russ’ favorite are Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) nuts, which taste like walnuts that have been lightly sprayed with maple syrup. Russ will explain how to process these and other native nuts and turn them into delicious baked goods. 

Russ will also show the keys to the identification of each species. You will also learn about the edible portions, seasons of availability and preparation methods, along with guidelines for safe and environmentally responsible foraging.  

For nearly four decades, Russ has been foraging and teaching courses about wild edibles. Over the years, Russ and his wife Ellen have hosted "Harvest Parties" for their friends, for which they prepared several dozen dishes (appetizers, soups, salads, main courses, desserts, condiments and hot and cold beverages), all utilizing wild ingredients.

Following the lecture, sample a foraged goodie or two made from edible native species.

Registration is required. SVT Members: Free, Non-Members: $10. For additional information and registration, visit www.svtweb.org or call 978-443-5588.