Tending Wild Willows (FREE!)

Since the earliest stone tools date to over 2.6 million years ago, presumably, humans have been weaving baskets for, at least, hundreds of thousands of years, if not longer.  Willows, also known as sallows or osiers, when appropriately managed, produce a fine material for weaving. Unmanaged, they become a tangled and often short-lived mess. Willows have ancient, global cross-cultural significance. Willow bark contains salicin, which has been used by humans for thousands of years to ease pain from stomach pain and headaches.

Learn how to cut and manage wild willows for basketry! This is a volunteer work opportunity: learning will happen, but work is the focus. We’ll be continuing to develop a public source of willows for basket weavers, as well as gathering material that will be used for future classes. All required tools will be provided.

Space in this class is limited. Preregistration is required to reserve a spot in the class. The class will begin promptly at the scheduled time. Please plan accordingly. If you know you can't attend class, a quick phone call or email is appreciated so we can make the spot available to other students. Contact Rewild Maine at (207) 449-7738 or rewildmaine@gmail.com if you have any questions.

NOTE: This class will be held entirely outdoors, and will only be canceled in the event of a severe snowstorm. Please dress appropriately.

Donations, of any amount, will always be graciously accepted. Rewild Maine is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We depend on donations from the community to offer free classes and workshops and we are grateful for your support. Financial aid and scholarships are available for paid classes on an as-needed basis and nobody will ever be turned away for lack of funds. All donations are tax-deductible.