WOW, Thanks for sharing a little of your knowledge. It is easy to see how passionate you are about nature and all the wonderful useful things that 90% of us just walk by with out a clue. Was most of your knowledge gained through books/research and going in to the field yourself to learn, or have you attended anytype of course or group study.
I ask because I was interested in taking a course on similar subject matter, and was wondering if you think that is a good idea or should I do some solo reasearch for awhile
first.
Although I attended a couple of courses, most of the little I know came from books/research (and videos like John McPherson and Ron Hood - both highly recommended) and playing in the woods.
The important thing if you learn from books is to get out in the field and try out the skills. Just because you think you understand how it works, doesn't mean you can do it. I did a talk for an organic growers group about primitive skills and the uses of wild plants and I asked the question, "Has anybody here read about friction fire and has never done it, but think they could if they had to?" To my surprise, there was one guy that held his hand up, so I gave him the chance. Let's just say, since it was winter, it was lucky he was in a heated building.
As far as courses go, absolutely, take whatever you can, however, when dealing with wild foods and medicines don't take anybody's word about what is edible and what isn't. Listen and take notes, of course, but validate the information with your own research. If I sound a little paranoid, it's because I am. I've seen serious misinformation before, and like I said earlier, the final responsibility for determining the safety and suitability of using any wild plant for a food or a medicine, IS YOURS! (I'm probably going to take some flak on this one
, but I stand by it.)
Anyway, good luck and be safe!
Doc
