Historic Uses of Edible and Medical Plants from the Back Yard

The Faulkner County Library presents a trail walk experience led by wild herb enthusiast, Shirley Pratt

Meet in the West parking area of Faulkner County Library Admission is FREE!

Imagine a time when living "off grid" was not a lifestyle choice as it is today, but was in fact the only choice available for families of the rural areas of what is now Faulkner County. How did these families stretch their food reserves to feed hungry children? How did they obtain the materials for the remedies that perhaps saved the lives of their loved ones? How did plants serve dozens of other useful roles for the families of the region?

For some answers to these questions, join Shirley Pratt, retired biology teacher and herbal enthusiast. Ms. Pratt lives in the Happy Valley community about 10 miles east of Greenbrier on the family farm where she grew up. Plants of the meadows and forests along the East Fork of Cadron Creek made an early impression on her, sparking an interest in the study of biology. Join Ms. Pratt for a relaxing trail walk winding through the seldom visited areas of back yard property of the Faulkner County Library on Tyler Street in Conway. Meet in the West Parking Lot of the Library, Saturday, June 4, 10:00 am, for a brief welcome and orientation session before moving out onto the trail to learn about some of the Historic Uses of Edible and Medical Plants from the Back Yard. Many plants growing along the trails have been used as foods and medicines for centuries, and with caution, can even be used today. Discover surprising uses for common plants such as dandelion, blackberry, wild black cherry, and chickweed, plus many others along the way. No registration is required and admission is free.

Participants are urged to dress for the short walk, sturdy hiking shoes (waterproof would be advisable in case the grass is wet from dew), mosquito spray, water, hat, as well as any other personal items required for comfort. The walk should last about an hour and will be on easy terrain. However, the trail is not ADA accessible at this time.