The next 'Talk of the Sourlands' is Thursday, October 12th! Learn about the Duke Farms Deer Management Program with Mike Bellaus, one of the most successful DMP’s in the state, from its inception to the results.

The Foraging Forest

The Foraging Forest is a unique restoration project that brings together habitat restoration and community engagement in a creative new way.  We are reminded that restoration projects strengthen the ecosystem benefiting all plants and animals – including humans.  

The planting site will grow to become an outdoor community space where people can learn about ecology, history, biology, and sustainable foraging – or simply enjoy a moment of serenity in Simcha’s Corner.

The Foraging Forest is a native plant restoration funded by the Simcha Rudolph Charitable Trust and is in partnership with the Sourland Conservancy, Mercer County Park Commission and D&R Greenway Land Trust.

Wild Columbine

Create a foraging forest in your own backyard

  1. Remove invasive species by pulling or cutting. Use herbicide sparingly – and only if absolutely necessary. Carefully follow package directions.
  2. Prepare the site for planting: layer old cardboard and wood chips as mulch or for pathways.
  3. Choose native plants that are appropriate for growing conditions: sun, moisture, soil type. Click here for the plant list for the Foraging Forest.
  4. Install the native plants.
  5. Protect the plants from deer by installing fencing.
  6. Maintain the site: water regularly until plants are established and continue removing invasive plants.

Hillsborough High School student, Keana Werlen, created a cookbook to showcase Foraging Forest plants. Download Keana’s cookbook here.

 

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Foraging Forest June 2021