About this Event
We’re thrilled to welcome , founder of Foraging Texas and longtime advocate for native plants and wild foods, back to the farm on Oct. 3rd 2026, and Feb. 20th 2027!
And the day doesn’t stop there! We'll also be hosting , our free weekly open farm day. Explore the farm through guided tours, take part in hands-on classes, and enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes prepared by our chefs. Guests can even take home produce and herbs harvested straight from our fields.
Each class will run from 9am to Noon.
Our free Agritourism Day is from Noon to 4pm.
Mark Vorderbruggen Bio:
"Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Ph.D., is a scientist raised by wolves—or close enough. With advanced degrees in medicinal and physical organic chemistry, sixteen patents, and numerous scientific publications, he brings rigorous research to the wild world of edible and medicinal plants.
Founder of ForagingTexas.com and author of two foraging books, Merriwether has led hundreds of walkabouts, appeared across radio, television, and podcasts, and consulted for clients ranging from alcohol distilleries to herbal medicine companies to NASA. His events blend science, survival knowledge, forgotten plant lore, and a distinctly feral sense of humor—leaving audiences eager to step outside and see the landscape with entirely new eyes. The rich diversity of plants found at Blackwood Land makes it Merriwether's favorite location for reattaching people to nature's gifts!"
Can't wait to see you on the farm!
Event venue & nearby stays
Blackwood Educational Land Institute, 27144 Rock Island Road, Hempstead, United States
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