The Budding Forager's Guide to Edible Plants in Southwest Virginia

Abstract

This guide features 20 plant species, carefully selected to provide a diverse basis for developing a foraging experience. The guide is divided into three sections: “Easy Pickings”, “Spice it Up”, and “Rich History”, which include easy-to-harvest plants, species with unique uses, and those with significant cultural or historical significance. We designed colorful taxonomic illustrations for easy identification by representing the desired traits and life stages. Our foraging guide will stimulate interest in plants, their cultural significance, and the ecology of Southwest Virginia. We hope to decrease novice foragers' fears by providing an approachable introduction to foraging.