Way down yonder in the pawpaw patch, that’s where you’ll find our master forager Nick Spero. Finding pawpaw trees in our local forests is fairly easy. Finding fruit on a pawpaw tree is the tricky part. Join Nick in search of the pawpaw fruit, a small green potato-shaped fruit with a flavor often compared to bananas, with hints of mango, vanilla, and citrus. The largest edible fruit native to North America, those pawpaws are a local commodity made into bread, ice cream, and salsa, just to name a few dishes. And while pawpaws are the goal, we will be sure to keep our eyes open for other wild plants that can be foraged in this easy-to-moderate, low-intensity hike. Nibble along the way to learn valuable foraging tips and techniques.
Get to know your guide: Nick Spero loves to hunt and fish, and primitive technology has piqued his interest since he was a child. You can view a video produced by NPR about Nick here.
Nick, like most of the other people who lead NHSM field trips, is a volunteer, so your money will go directly to support the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Donate or become a member of the Natural History Society of Maryland by visiting https://
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (low-intensity hiking)
Remember to
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of non-cotton clothing work best. For sunny days, a hat with a brim may be needed.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and for your camera, an extra battery, extra memory card, and lens-cleaning cloth.
- Bring binoculars and a magnifying glass or a hand lens.
- Bring your guidebooks.
- No pets, please.
SPACES ARE LIMITED. The tour should take approximately three hours to complete. The exact meeting space will be provided when registration and payment are complete.
Cancellation Policy: NHSM Field Experiences – Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the field experience will receive a refund (minus a $5 processing fee). Cancellations made within the week of the event will not receive a refund but can be transferred to a friend.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
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