FAQ

  • What are your workshops like?

    Workshops last approximately two hours and primarily consist of a hike with frequent stops for identifications, taste tests, mini-lessons, and explanations. Foragers have to pay attention to the whole forest, and there is a lot to learn! You'll be encouraged to ask lots of questions and take plenty of notes.

  • Where do the workshops meet?

    Generally in the Shenandoah Valley, especially around the Charlottesville area, but I've been known to travel! Precise locations will be released to all participants 3-7 days ahead of the meeting, but it will always be within a 20 minute drive of the city or town included on the workshop listing.

  • Do you cancel for bad weather?

    No cancellations for a little rain (dress accordingly), but I will always prioritize the safety of the class and reconsider in the event of severe weather. Weather-related class cancellations will be rescheduled for a later date.

  • What are your credentials?

    Foraging is not something you can get a degree in or go to school for, and credentialing is at the discretion of the state you live in. Foragers maintain strong community checks and balances - our work speaks for itself, and sloppy or reckless foragers lose credibility quickly.

    I have led foraging walks and classes and given lectures around the country at such events as the Telluride Mushroom Festival, Midwest Wild Harvest Festival, Great Lakes Foragers Gathering, dozens of mycological clubs and societies, and several universities.

    I have served as a subject expert editor for several books on foraging, and I also have my own book on foraging coming out in autumn of 2025 (stay tuned!)

  • What should I bring?

    Bring a basket, a notebook, and something to write with. You may also choose to bring a pocket knife with you.

  • Do you accommodate people with disabilities?

    First, you deserve to enjoy learning about the outdoors, no matter what! Nature belongs to all of us.

    There are many types of disabilities, and while I may not be able to accommodate every known disability, my goal is to make my walks as accessible as I can. Some of my walks are wheelchair and mobility device accessible, though others may be more challenging.

    If you have specific mobility accessibility needs and you want to come on a foraging walk, please reach out through my contact form so we can select a walk that best accommodates your needs.