Franke Global Leadership Initiative Presentations
Project Type
Presentation
Project Funding and Affiliations
Frankie Global Leadership Initiative
Faculty Mentor’s Full Name
Peter McDonough
Faculty Mentor’s Department
Climate Change Studies
Abstract / Artist's Statement
There is a large cultural disconnect between humans and natural areas, and the utilization of natural resources is rarely reciprocal. In addition, opportunistic (commonly called invasive) plants can outcompete native species if they are not managed, though this management typically involves heavy chemical use. There is also a deficit in resources surrounding other management strategies such as foraging for non-native species. To address these issues, our group has explored the potential uses of opportunistic plants. Initially introduced to novel areas both intentionally and unintentionally, these plants can serve as food, medicine, and art materials. We aim to reduce chemical use while maintaining opportunist management and fostering human-land connections by foraging opportunistic plants. We will create a pamphlet detailing opportunistic plants, their uses, and guidelines for harvesting them. To promote this knowledge, we will host tabling events sharing products made from opportunists, teaching the public about ways to use these plants. Our project aims to create a framework for students who are interested in foraging and advanced foragers that expands knowledge on these species, enabling global communities to apply these principles in their practices. Through this project, we seek to provide resources for foraging opportunists, make foraging more accessible, and inspire greater human-land connectedness. Success will be evaluated by gauging interest from students and active native plant foragers.
Category
Franke Global Leadership Initiative
Foraging Opportunists: Encouraging Reconnection with the Land
UC 332
There is a large cultural disconnect between humans and natural areas, and the utilization of natural resources is rarely reciprocal. In addition, opportunistic (commonly called invasive) plants can outcompete native species if they are not managed, though this management typically involves heavy chemical use. There is also a deficit in resources surrounding other management strategies such as foraging for non-native species. To address these issues, our group has explored the potential uses of opportunistic plants. Initially introduced to novel areas both intentionally and unintentionally, these plants can serve as food, medicine, and art materials. We aim to reduce chemical use while maintaining opportunist management and fostering human-land connections by foraging opportunistic plants. We will create a pamphlet detailing opportunistic plants, their uses, and guidelines for harvesting them. To promote this knowledge, we will host tabling events sharing products made from opportunists, teaching the public about ways to use these plants. Our project aims to create a framework for students who are interested in foraging and advanced foragers that expands knowledge on these species, enabling global communities to apply these principles in their practices. Through this project, we seek to provide resources for foraging opportunists, make foraging more accessible, and inspire greater human-land connectedness. Success will be evaluated by gauging interest from students and active native plant foragers.