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Traditional Uses of Native Plants

Yellow flower
Stone Crop © Jim Steinberg

Date:
September 14 - 20, 2008

Time:
Full day activities

Overview:
Join us for a unique opportunity to learn about the traditional medicinal, edible and constructive uses of native plant species on Montana's Rocky Mountain Front. We will spend the week exploring different habitats, identifying and gathering plant species in an ethical, sustainable manner. This hands-on workshop will allow participants to experience wild plant foods, natural crafting and plant medicines of regional Native Peoples.

For at least 10,000 years, humans have lived and thrived along the "Front" and relied heavily on plant species for their food, medicine and material culture. During this workshop, participants will explore the remarkably varied habitats of mountain, forest and prairie from the perspective of early peoples. On daily plant walks, we will learn to identify and gather small quantities of seasonal foods from the landscape.

Throughout the week, we will do craft projects such as gathering baskets, folk toys and other useful implements. We will discuss the history of local Native Americans and the manner in which they use and relate to plants culturally. The ethics of proper gathering will also be addressed.

Instructor:
The workshop will be instructed by David Cronenwett, Pine Butte's naturalist and wilderness skills instructor.

Cost: 
Cost for this workshop is $1700 per person, which includes airport shuttle service to/from Great Falls, food, and lodging at Pine Butte Guest Ranch. We require a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person in order to hold your reservation(s). A portion of your fee ($400) is considered tax-deductible.

Enrollment is limited to 16 participants.

Accommodations:
You’ll stay at the historic Pine Butte Guest Ranch, set in a spectacular mountain valley surrounded by thousands of acres of wilderness. It’s the perfect place to "get away from it all" and enjoy outstanding food and cozy lodging.

Learn more:
• Travel to the ranch
• Reservation form
• What to bring

We look forward to hosting you at Pine Butte Guest Ranch!