Connecting with Nature: Mikaela Cannon, "Foraging as a Way of Life," and Upcoming Local Events

At Monashee Outdoors, we believe that exploring the backcountry is about more than just having the right gear—it’s about deepening our connection to the land and learning to navigate the natural world around us.

That is why we are thrilled to highlight local author, educator, and wildcrafter Mikaela Cannon, creator of Forest Fables. Based near Armstrong, BC, Mikaela lives on a small organic farm with her family, where she shares her passion for sustainable living, ethnobotany, and responsible harvesting.

"Foraging as a Way of Life: A Year-Round Field Guide to Wild Plants"

Mikaela’s book, Foraging as a Way of Life: A Year-Round Field Guide to Wild Plants is an invaluable resource for anyone spending time in the woods of British Columbia.

What Makes This Guide Essential for Outdoor Enthusiasts?

• Month-by-Month Structure: Breaks down 12 months of wildcrafting, introducing five edible plants each month for local and seasonal eating.
• Safe Identification: Packed with over 400 full-colour photos, detailed plant profiles, cautions, and common lookalikes to help you identify species with confidence.
• Practical Recipes: Offers delicious ways to prepare wild edibles—from rosehip soup and pan-fried dandelion flowers to unique wild teas and tonics.
• Ethical Harvesting: Emphasizes sustainable practices, habitat protection, and respect for Indigenous ecological knowledge.

Whether you're a hiker wanting to gather wild snacks on the trail, a gardener looking to make use of edible weeds, or a hunter looking to understand local plant life, this guide is a must-have addition to your daypack.

Find her book here:Foraging as a Way of Life

Upcoming Speaker Event

If you'd like to meet Mikaela and learn more about wildcrafting, mark your calendar for her upcoming appearance:

Event: Hometown Histories

Date & Time: Saturday, October 17, 1-3 pm

Location: Museum & Archives of Vernon, 3009 32nd Avenue (Vernon, BC)

Price: $10

Details: Join local forager Mikaela Cannon for a hands-on workshop exploring local plants and mushrooms, including how to identify them and how they can be used. Participants will have opportunities to draw plants, work together on identification exercises, and even sample some foraged foods. The workshop is suitable for all ages, making it a great opportunity for families and anyone curious about the plants and mushrooms found in our local area.

Book your ticket here: The Museum and Archives of Vernon

For more information and future event updates, visit the Forest Fables Upcoming Events Page

Gear Up for Your Next Foraging Adventure

Heading into the forest to practice your foraging skills? Make sure you’re prepared for the elements before you step off the beaten path:

Shop Navigation & Safety Gear – Stay oriented with compasses and lighting essentials.

Shop Knives & Tools – Compact pocket knives and multi-tools perfect for clean, careful plant harvesting.

Shop Outdoor Footwear – Reliable hiking boots to keep your feet dry and supported across any terrain.

Disclaimer: This article was written with the assistance of Generative AI.