Fall Creek Falls State Park hosting its annual Wild Food Days this weekend to provide hands-on instruction in ancestral survival and foraging techniques.
Park Ranger Matthew Brown said the event focuses on utilizing resources found in nature such as wild meats, plants, nuts, and berries. Brown said the gathering has been a park tradition for many years and includes lessons on turning raw materials into food sources.
“We do have programs throughout the day that focus on identifying edible and medicinal plants and different types of primitive skills,” Brown said. “Native American skills, trapping skills, different things of that nature.”
Wild Foods Day is an event that focuses on getting back to nature, Brown said. Attendees can learn to make different types of breads, jams, and jellies. Brown said the workshops cover survival methods as well. Attendees can participate in programs dedicated to trapping.
“Mostly wilderness skills and just learning how our ancestors used to survive off of the land, and how we can still honor some of that today and make use of some of that today,” Brown said.
The instruction helps modern families understand the traditional heritage of the Cumberland Plateau, Brown said. Participants learn how to process items that are often considered yard waste into valuable ingredients.
“So just knowing that those things that you’re trying to get out of your yard and trying to clean up and get rid of may actually have some real value. You can make a difference in the way you view your surroundings, the way you view nature, and the way you view yourself,” Brown said. “Anytime that you can learn about your ancestors, you are improving your own self.”
Brown said education regarding native resources encourages the public to protect and preserve natural ecosystems. He said those who participate in foraging often become stronger conservationists because they understand how the environment benefits them.
Activities for the event take place at the Piney Creek Camp. Brown said that while a fire is typically maintained in the main meeting area, the buildings do not have climate control.