Learning From Native Plants

For generations the plants of the Northwoods have sustained the Anishinaabeg (Ojibwe) spiritually, culturally and physically. Indigenous people learned the helpful uses of these plants by living with them as relatives: listening to and speaking with them, watching their changes through the seasons, tending and collecting them with care and respect. Join Aimee Cree Dunn on a half day leisurely walk at Laughing Whitefish Falls park to experience a piece of the Northwoods relatively untouched by the Industrial Age. Ms. Dunn is an unaffiliated Metis and an instructor at NMU's Dept. of Native American Studies. She will help us identify plants used by the Anishinaabeg and introduce concepts of Indigenous environmental philosophy.

The group will meet at the Laughing Whitefish Falls parking area in Skandia at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16. June 17 will be the alternate in case of really bad weather, but the program will take place in light rain. Space is limited to 12 people 12 years of age and up, so pre-registration is necessary through the Marquette Regional History Center, 906-226-3571. If demand is high, a second group will meet at 1 p.m. the same day. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, bug dope and dress for the weather and mosquitoes. Carpooling is encouraged and State Park Passport is required; or pay in parking lot. A voluntary donation of $5 will be collected on site.