Foraged Ice Cream at Long Branch Farm and Trails: Wild Blackberry

Registration Requirements: Preregistration required.

Intended Audience: This family-friendly program is designed for adults and/or families with children 8 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Program Description: Whether you’re a foodie, a forager, or are looking for something fun to do, you’ll savor the season as you learn by doing. Head out to harvest in community, then swap your haul for some pre-made ice cream.

Each outing includes:

Foraging basics and tips on ethical harvesting
Processing tips and recipes
An experience highlighting natural and human history…through the lens of ice cream.
An overview of how we “wild tend” crops as we care for the land
A sample of a bonus foraged food based on what’s in season (and what we’re working on)
What to Expect: This is a hands-on class with an optional gathering in the field portion. We’ll be headed out onto the land and off-trail to harvest. Remember that raspberry canes and, in particular, blackberry canes are very thorny. With care, you’ll emerge unscathed. Loaner harvesting baskets (the sort that attach to your waist to allow you to pick with both hands) and/or tools will be available.

This program is mostly outdoors with indoor options available in the case of severe weather.
Restrooms are available at the start and end of the program. Restrooms are not available on the trails.
Trails/areas used during this program are rated as moderate (some elevation changes; trails may be uneven or could be slippery when wet) and off-trail for a planned distance of 0.5-1 mile at a moderate pace.
Program runs rain or shine.
What to Wear: As we’re harvesting from thorny wild berry canes or digging for roots, long pants, boots, and even a sturdy long-sleeved shirt are recommended. Pro-tip: consider wearing a clean glove on your non-dominant hand (to hold berry canes), picking with your dominant hand. Treating your body/clothing for chiggers is recommended.

Where to Meet: Registered participants will meet at the Creekside Barn at our Long Branch Farm & Trails location. (6926 Gaynor Rd, Goshen, OH 45122)

Cost: Ticket fees include daily admission.