Middlesex County is home to over 80 species of edible wild plants. Many of these species are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. These include native species like Black Raspberry and Shagbark Hickory; non-native weeds like Burdock and Chicory; and exotic invasive species like Dame’s Rocket and Japanese Knotweed. Join Russ Cohen, wild edibles enthusiast and author of the book Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten, for a 90-minute slide show covering at least three dozen of the tastiest species the region has to offer. These include plant species everyone knows well, like Daisies and Dandelions, to species they may never have even heard of, like Calamus and Carrion Flower. Russ’ talk will also include native species suitable for planting in peoples’ yards. Keys to the identification of each species will be provided, along with info on edible portion(s), season(s) of availability and preparation methods, as well as guidelines for safe and environmentally-responsible foraging. Russ will also include a few details regarding some native edible plants he has grown successfully from seed and added to Middlesex County landscapes in partnership with land trusts, municipalities and other groups. Last but not least, Russ will accompany his talk with handouts and several foraged goodies made with wild ingredients.