Have you ever grocery shopped…in the woods? I have and am doing more of it as the seasons go on.

My first experience was years ago. I had the privilege of going with a very experienced forager. I learned about the plants that our Pennsylvania woods yield, ones that can nourish us, and how to cook them.

I’ve also learned a bit about hunting; this year marks my third. Fishing & hunting help cut down on our grocery bills.

In deer season I have been able to put pounds of venison into my freezer, reducing our purchases of meat by about 25%. As for the white meat, I put a fall turkey and pheasant there yearly.

Then comes the fish; more than 40 pounds of fresh salmon made it home from our trip to New York this year. That was over 16 meals my husband and I put on the table.

Nothing about hunting and fishing is easy. It’s hard work, but when you are rewarded with a harvest, it’s incredibly gratifying. I am proud when I bring home my game. I put in the time, the work to track, pattern and wait for those animals, to forage for what the Earth gives us, and I am always grateful for what is provided.

Jessica Welshans has a deep love for conservation and wildlife. She is an avid hiker, camper, kayaker, snowshoer, bird watcher, hunter, and gatherer. She also enjoys bee keeping, gardening, agriculture and caring for all types of animals from pets to livestock.