Enjoy two fantastic days of outdoor learning at Farrington Nature Linc. These Forest School events are the perfect opportunity to explore nature, learn new skills, and have a good time with new and old friends.

Foraging 101 Saturday, October 14th -1:00-3:30pm

Foraging — which is the act of gathering plants from the wild — ­­is a large part of human tradition. In the modern world, many folks have become used to picking things up at the grocery store or even online. Nature offers a more reciprocal and connected way of accessing food, medicine, and craft.

Kids will learn about seasonal plants, their qualities, and how they might consider interacting with them. Topics will include safety, sustainability, identification and harvesting tips, preservation techniques, and a hands-on demonstration of how to make a plant-infused salve that you can take home. FNL Program Director Sarah Kacevich will take the group through the fields, forest edges, and woods to look for items that could be edible, medicinal, or have other uses - like dyeing and fire starting.

Following the foraging content, kids will enjoy a special autumnal experience: a demonstration of how to make apple cider using FNL's own antique cider press and apples grown on site. Participants will have the opportunity to sample a few ounces of (fresh, non-alcoholic) cider. Please be aware, the cider will not be pasteurized. They take careful measures to promote safety, but any unpasteurized cider carries a risk of containing bacteria. Participants should consume at their own risk.

This event is intended for educational purposes only. Information is not meant to diagnose or treat injuries or illnesses of any kind. Any concerns about introducing a new plant into one's body, or possible allergies, should be addressed with a medical professional.

Limited to 20 attendees.

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Signs of Animals Saturday, November 11th- 2:00-3:30pm

Explore the hidden tracks and signs left behind by animals meandering through the site. Animals are all around, even if they are hiding. They are experts at avoiding humans but many animals leave behind clues such as tracks and scat that can provide a window into their hidden world.

Head into the woods on our site in Lincoln, MA with FNL Educator and Program Manager Meg Ito. Together, explorers will be looking for evidence of the animals. Expect to see some real animal bones, skins and other signs as part of this workshop. Animal track cards will be available for use and each participant will be able to take a small piece of snake skin home! Workshop will include an introduction to local wildlife, a 45 minute walk around the site and a 30 minute campfire at the end of the session.

Limited to 15 attendees.

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For both events, dress to be comfortable outside in whatever the weather is that day. Long pants and long sleeved shirts are recommended to avoid insect stings and bites. Bug spray will be available. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground. Sneakers or hiking shoes/boots are recommended. Please bring a water bottle!

Additional items that are recommended but not necessary: binoculars, a notepad or journal, a loupe or magnifying glass, and camera.

Participants should expect to walk at a slow to moderate pace, on uneven surfaces and gentle slopes, throughout the duration of each event.