Alameda Native History Project

Month: October 2024

  • Why We Don’t Accept Acorns Collected from the Ground

    When it comes to foraging for acorns, we have a firm policy: we don’t accept those collected from the ground.

    Here’s why:

    Acorns can mold incredibly quickly once picked up; especially when stored improperly in bags, boxes, or environments with little to no air circulation. It is vitally important to prevent the spread of mold and mildew to other acorns in storage.

    Moldy acorns are not just unappealing; they can pose serious health risks, like hantavirus. Hantavirus is a serious disease transmitted through contact with rodent droppings or urine. Ground-collected acorns are often more likely to be contaminated by mold and pathogens, which we want to avoid.

    It’s important to note that 20% or less of the acorns gathered from the ground are fit enough for storage and consumption. Since we emphasize sourcing acorns for food, we have to apply a strict standard: if it’s not something you would personally eat, we don’t want it either.

    By upholding these guidelines, we prioritize health and ensure that the acorns we collect and use are safe and of the best quality.

    Let’s keep our foraging practices safe and sustainable!

  • First Annual Acorn Harvest Will Go Through November

    We’re thrilled to share the progress of the First Annual Acorn Harvest, a groundbreaking initiative that’s bringing together a diverse group of volunteers from across the local community.

    Our shared goal? To revive ancient foodways and reconnect with the natural environment that sustains us.

    Through this collaborative effort, we’re not only preserving traditional knowledge but also providing a tangible way for community members to give back and make a positive impact.

    By working together, we’re fostering a deeper appreciation for the land, its resources, and the indigenous cultures that have thrived here for centuries.

    The Acorn Harvest is more than just an event – it’s a movement that embodies the spirit of community, sustainability, and cultural revitalization. Here’s what’s next:

    • The acorns we harvest will be stored over winter, allowing us to preserve the bounty of the season.
    • In the spring, we’ll process the acorns using traditional methods, preparing them for culinary use.
    • We’re excited to announce a culinary series featuring traditional and contemporary Native American cuisine, with a focus on acorn-based dishes! Think traditional acorn mush or dumplings, acorn pumpkin muffins, and more.
    • But that’s not all – we’ll also be exploring international acorn dishes, including Korean Acorn Jelly (dotorimuk) and other global specialties. Do you have a favorite acorn recipe to share? We’d love to hear from you!

    Join us on this journey as we rediscover the flavors and traditions of Native California.

    Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to harvest, learn, and grow with us!

    Join Us on the Harvest!

    Wednesday and Sunday, from 9am to 12pm.

    We’re gathering a diverse group of volunteers to help bring back ancient foodways and reconnect with the natural environment. Whether you’re interested in harvesting acorns, sorting and packing, or helping with transportation and installation, we have a role for you!

    Join our team and contribute your skills and energy to:

    • Harvesting fallen and ripe acorns
    • Sorting and packing acorns for storage
    • Transporting people and acorns to and from harvest sites
    • Installing acorn granaries with our Indigenous Land Lab partners
    • And more!

    We’re excited to share this experience with you! We welcome volunteers of all abilities and backgrounds to join our community-driven effort.

    Sign up for the Acorn Harvest team now and be a part of this exciting journey!

    Acorn Harvest Signup