The Hunter Gatherer Society

Foraging for autumn olive berries (Elaeagnus umbellata) has become one of my favorite fall activities. These small, tart berries, often overlooked, are a delightful and nutritious find during the autumn months. Here’s a complete guide to help you identify, prepare, and store autumn olive berries safely. Growing Range Autumn olive is native to Asia but has become widely established across the United States, particularly in the eastern and southern regions. It can often be found in disturbed areas, fields, and along roadsides. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, making it adaptable to various climates and soil types. Identifying Autumn Olive Berries When searching for autumn olive berries, keep these characteristics in mind: Culinary Uses for Autumn[…]

Foraging for rosehips, the vibrant fruits of wild roses, has become one of my favorite seasonal activities. These small, round fruits are visually appealing with their bright red or orange colors and packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify, prepare, and store rosehips safely. Identifying Rosehips When searching for rosehips, keep these key characteristics in mind: Proper identification of the rose species is essential, as many varieties exist. A reliable foraging guide can assist in confirming the correct species. Culinary Uses for Rosehips Rosehips offer incredible versatility and can serve various culinary and medicinal applications: Preparing Rosehips Storing Rosehips Safety Tips for Foraging Conclusion Foraging for rosehips not only connects you to nature but[…]

Autumn in the Pacific Northwest signals the perfect time for huckleberry foraging. Huckleberries are small, round berries that range in color from deep blue to dark purple and are packed with flavor. Growing in the wild, these berries can often be found in moist, wooded areas and alongside hiking trails. When foraging for huckleberries, a few key tips can enhance the experience. First, familiarize yourself with the different types of huckleberries, such as blue huckleberries (Vaccinium deliciosum) and red huckleberries (Vaccinium parvifolium), as they vary in taste and habitat. Typically, I look for bushes at higher elevations in areas with plenty of sunlight. Uses and Preparation Methods When it comes to cooking with wild huckleberries, there’s nothing quite like the[…]