Old Orchard Beach/Saco Adult Education

What is a high bush cranberry? Is it possible to wash my hair with sidewalk flowers? How can I use invasive plants for good? Be delighted by all that is growing in the city itself, located on beautiful Wabanaki land. Nature is prolific and will pop up through the cracks in the sidewalks and on the edges of the street. We will look closely at what is growing and meet many native and invasive plants, as well as learn about what unique gifts city plants give us. Learn to look closely and learn to identify summer plants that you may have in your own backyard. This walk will mostly be on sidewalks, but nearer to the river there is a section with many stairs. The section with stairs will take 15-20 minutes, and those who want to skip that part will have access to benches to wait upon. Registration closes at noon on 6/16. Wear comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and an optional brimmed hat or cap (which helps with both sun and bugs). Bring binoculars if you want to see what birds and animals are about. Walk begins promptly at 4pm. Rain date 6/19, 4-6pm.

Note: Please communicate any accessibility concerns at registration, and we will ask Laura to contact you to discuss any needed accommodations.

Laura Grover is a plant and bird hobbyist, botanical illustrator for Fedco Seeds, and a mindfulness ambassador. She has led many plant identification and mindful foraging walks for people of all ages. She enjoys bringing people together to look closely in nature, practice mindfulness outside, and be a sensory animal in the woods.