3 - C L A S S   S E R I E S

Offered: Spring 2014
Location: Commonweal Garden
Instructor: Tellur Fenner

Situated a few miles north of downtown San Francisco across the Golden Gate, Marin County encompasses the largest and most diverse tract of contiguous wilderness to be found in such close proximity to the cities of the Bay Area. The botanical diversity of the region is owed to its varied landscapes, including: coastal bluffs, chaparral, dunes, deep forests of Douglas-fir and Bishop pines, grasslands, both fresh water and salt water marshes... to name a few.

Join us for this 3-class series as we explore a number of these habitats while learning about the many amazing and useful plants that grow there. This interdisciplinary program will engage participants on all levels through a combination of classroom lecture, field exploration, and a variety of hands-on exercises.

Topics/activities to be covered include:
• botany basics taught from a plant family perspective (including microscope sessions)
• plant identification in the field
• medicinal/edible/utilitarian uses
• California ethnobotany
• ethical harvesting guidelines and information about at-risk medicinal plants
• safety issues and tips on how to avoid toxic/poisonous plants
• medicine making techniques and activities
• sampling of a variety of edible/medicinal plant preparations
• and more! 

This course is a wonderful opportunity for those who have completed a permaculture design course to deepen their knowledge of plants. You'll learn the basics of plant identification, uses and preparation methods, using West Marin as our living classroom. The botany and plant identification components of the class are transferrable to the greater world of plants. 

Session I: Botany Skills for the Edible/Medicinal Plant Enthusiast

During this interactive lecture/slideshow/workshop we will explore the science of botany while learning the fundamental methods necessary to accurately and confidently ID a variety of local plants.

Session II: Wildcrafting and Plant Preparation Methods

Day two will be spent learning the principles of plant harvesting, processing, and botanical pharmacy work. After a short lecture/slideshow, students will harvest a number of useful medicinals from Commonweal Garden and environs. The remainder of our time will be spent preparing a number of different herbal products with our bountiful harvest. 

Session III: Marin County Bioregional Field Exploration

In order to put theory into practice, we'll spend the day hiking through a number of different plant habitats while identifying and discussing many of the useful plants found along the way. Our study will emphasize a dynamic sensory awareness of the plants via close observation, touching, tasting, and smelling.  

Workshop Fees

Material costs are included in workshop fees.

$240 per person for the 3-part series

$210 Early bird discount, registered & paid in full 4-weeks prior to start of course

Registration

We recommend that you register as early as possible, as many classes fill up in advance. Classes may be cancelled if the minimum number of participants is not met one week prior to the class. Given the hands-on nature of these classes, there is a maximum 15-18 participants.

All fees must be paid in full prior to the start of class.

Registration is Closed

Refund Policy
Cancellations up to 1 week before the course begins will be refunded, excluding a $75 processing fee. No refunds are given after that date.

For questions or additional information,
email us or call 415-868-9681