♪♪ Way down yonder in the pawpaw patch ♪ Look for us there! Finding pawpaw trees in our local forests is fairly easy. Finding fruit on a pawpaw tree is the tricky part. Join master forager Nick Spero in search of the pawpaw fruit, a small green potato-shaped fruit with a flavor often compared to bananas, with hints of mango, vanilla, and citrus. The largest edible fruit native to North America, pawpaws are a local commodity made into bread, ice cream, and salsa, just to name a few dishes. And while pawpaws are the goal, we will be sure to keep our eyes open for other wild plants that can be foraged in this easy-to-moderate, low-intensity hike. Nibble along the way to learn valuable foraging tips and techniques.
To limit our impact on the park, let’s concentrate on learning to identify and sample taste rather than foraging, which may damage an area when too much is taken.
Our field trip leader, Nick Spero, spends his retirement outdoors as an avid hunter and fisherman. Primitive technology has piqued his interest since childhood. Here is a video produced by NPR about Nick.
- Our meeting location will be included in your registration confirmation email once payment is completed.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email sent a few days before the date.
- All participants must be pre-registered. If you are on the waitlist and show up to the event uninvited, you will not be allowed to participate.
- High school-aged children are welcome to attend and must be registered as a guest of their adult. No more than two children per adult.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and bug spray, depending on the season.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
All events are held rain or shine. If any event is canceled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $25 or less are non-refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:-
NHSM Member: $38
Guests should also be NHSM members. - Non Members: $48