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Partnering with Nature: A Native American Way of Sustaining the Habitat

All the Native American tribes whose territories surrounded Pepperwood (the Wappo, Pomo, and Miwok) relied upon plants for their survival. They developed a sophisticated system of "tending the wild" to create an abundance of their favorite edible and medicinal plants, while cultivating others for fibers and use in woven baskets.

Pepperwood's Cultural Resources Coordinator and resident anthropologist Benjamin Benson and Autumn Summers, Program Coordinator for the California School of Herbal Studies, will lead this exciting exploration through lecture and field work. Members of Pepperwood's Native American Council of elders will also participate and share their extensive knowledge of plant foods, their exquisite basketry, and traditional tool use. They will bring a wealth of ancient knowledge to this class.

Savory acorn spread, roasted bay nut "buzz balls" and sweet/sour manzanita berries are a few of the native foods on the menu for preparing and tasting. Employ your hands to make string from dogbane and try your luck at a traditional gambling game while sitting around the campfire Saturday night. Participants are invited to stay at the Bechtel House or camp under the stars. A catered dinner Saturday night and continental breakfast on Sunday are included.