I have so far resisted the urge to use any electronic devices (like IPads) for teaching aids on my outdoor walks. While I understand their utility in being able to access (+ show to folks on my walks) images of the plants/mushrooms at different stages (like at the harvestable stage), I am afraid that people will get distracted by the technology and lose the ability (and interest) in learning how to ID plants/mushrooms in the field. BTW, I have not seen a drop in interest in my outdoor foraging programs despite my refusal to go “high-tech”. People seem interested enough in knowing what they can safely nibble on along the trail without needing high-tech bells and whistles to make it interesting.

Research has shown that healing gardens promote wellness. Community gardens provide local produce and introduce neighbors who might not have ever spoken to each other. I think there is a strong possibility that Baby Boomers will frame the delights of the natural world for their grandchildren once they’ve rediscovered it in retirement.