During the morning we’ll focus on the basics of reading a topo map, finding our location, and creating bearings using our topo maps, then we’ll take a break for lunch. In the afternoon we’ll be outside practicing how to follow and set bearings and then navigation tricks of the trade. A compass never runs out of batteries or fails to connect with a satellite. One all day class.

Join author David Spahr for an indoor presentation and discussion of edible and medicinal mushrooms, identification, tools and equipment for harvesting, as well as books, materials, and other resources. David has collected edible mushrooms for 50 years. He is a member of the Maine Mycological Association and the North American Mycological Association.

Merrymeeting Bay is an amazing wetland area right in our backyards, yet unknown to many because of limited access. This online class will acquaint you with Bay in two ways: first, during six weekly online meetings you’ll learn about the nature and ecology of the Bay. Second, you’ll be introduced each week to a different nature preserve that touches on the Bay, with complete directions for exploring the trails at your own pace and time.

Crave the forest's bounty? Join David (65+ years of experience!) for an immersive foraging adventure. Learn to identify edible treasures, from berries to mushrooms, and uncover the secrets of plant ecology. This isn't just a walk, it's a transformative experience that fills your basket and your soul! Limited spots, register today! David is a member of the Maine Mycological Assoc. NOTE: This class will start with an outdoor talk at the waterfront followed by the walking portion.

This hands-on class requires you to evaluate a situation and apply the correct first aid for sprains, fractures, open chest wounds, hyperthermia, hypothermia, severe bleeding, stroke, allergic reactions, and more. Bring your first aid kit and learn what else you may need to add to it. $35 textbook included. Two sessions.

Author David Spahr has an extensive native farming project. In this class he will discuss and illustrate the hows and whys of farming with native plants, trees, and bushes.

Sea kayak to mysterious Malaga Island where indigenous people summer camped and where there was a colony in the late 1800’s that was evicted by the state of Maine. We’ll meet at 8:15am at a public boat launch, get outfitted for our paddling trip and go over safety rules and basic strokes. We’ll paddle 1.5 miles to Malaga Island. While paddling, be on the lookout for harbor seals, sea gulls, great blue herons, snowy egrets, sea ducks, osprey and possibly bald eagles. After landing we’ll hike the 1.2 mile trails of the island. We’ll have the lunch/snacks that you brought at the southern tip of the island. After finishing our hike, we’ll paddle back and return about 2pm. Kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are provided. You need to bring a very small backpack with your lunch, snacks, extra clothing layers, two 20 – 22 ounce bottles of water and possibly a change of shoes for your hike. If you are unable to walk unaided over tree roots and rocks, do not book this trip. All paddling gear is provided for this beginner friendly tour.

*NOTICE OF DATE CHANGE: The June session of this class will now run on 6/26 (not 6/19).

Join author David Spahr for an indoor presentation and discussion of Chaga Mushrooms. This class will detail all aspects of chaga (Inonotus Obliquus) including where to find them, how to use, and current science. Many aspects are shown, including those most have never seen. David has collected edible and medicinal mushrooms for 50 years. He is a member of the Maine Mycological Association and the North American Mycological Association.