Mussel & Intertidal Foraging
August 10, 8am-11am — Cannon Beach, OR
Come foraging for mussels!
Connect yourself with Pacific Northwest foods from the sea by foraging for one of the most abundant shellfish that line our shores.
This workshop will introduce students to rocky intertidal ecosystems of the Oregon Coast. We will discuss tides, seasonal ocean conditions, as well as safety and etiquette on the intertidal rocks. There will be a focus on foraging mussels and other edibles, including barnacles.
Students will learn when and where to look for these shellfish as well as how to sustainably harvest, store, and process them. You’ll then have time to forage for yourself and ask questions as you go. There will be a beachside cooking demonstration to wrap up the workshop so that you will confident cooking your shellfish when you get home.
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This workshop will be held near Cannon Beach, Oregon. An exact address will be sent upon registration.
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Foraging requires some significant walking including some potentially difficult terrain, including slippery and unstable rocks. Please wear appropriate footgear (e.g. tennis shoes, rainboots, or other hiking footwear). Whatever you don't mind getting wet that will also keep your feet stable. For your own safety and comfort, do not wear flipflops or sandals. Do keep in mind your feet are likely to be in the water at some point, so rainboots are what I would strongly recommend.
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Shellfish foraging in Oregon requires an Oregon Shellfish License which should be purchased prior to class and can be done online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
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Be prepared for any weather! For mussel foraging you’ll need a knife or scissors, gloves if preferred, a bucket or bag, and a cooler with ice to safely get your haul of shellfish back home.
Please do NOT bring dogs, I love the furry friends, but this is an interactive physically demanding activity in rough terrain and it can make it challenging for participants. Thank you!
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Cancellations made prior to 10 days from the time of the event will get a full refund (minus processing fees) or be rescheduled. Within 10 days of the workshop time, I will do my best to schedule someone but if I cannot fill the spot, no refund will be available.
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The Oregon coast is often unpredictable. Events will happen rain or shine. Please be prepared for any and all types of weather. If ocean conditions are unsafe on the day of the event, we will do what we can to educate and have a full lesson while keeping everyone safe.
