Foraging can create a deep connection to nature. Janani Sivarajah, a researcher on city foraging, says it brings people together, connects people to the land, and brings people back to their roots. Dan Scott agrees, believing that teaching people about edible plants makes them more likely to protect nature while foraging.
Foraging is the oldest way of getting food and is becoming very popular again. It is common among people who care about the environment and want to avoid pesticides and industrial food systems. However, its popularity has led to rules in some US national parks to limit how much people can gather.
The effect of foraging on the environment is complicated. Foraging can use up local resources that wildlife needs, particularly when it is done to sell for money. Laws show these worries, so foraging is not allowed in some Canadian parks, and the UK's National Trust warns against taking too much. Sustainable foraging means taking only small amounts for yourself. But Dan Scott admits that if thousands of people foraged on the beach, it would not be sustainable.
Health risks are another important thing to think about. Sivarajah warns that plants in cities can absorb harmful metals from car pollution. Seaweed has high levels of substances like arsenic and lead. The biggest danger, however, comes from picking the wrong thing. For example, he is very clear that looking for mushrooms needs learning from an expert, not just books, because deadly poisonous types exist. His advice is joining a group and learning from experienced people.
