"Wildman" Steve Brill451

Whether you're looking for a guide to the New York City parks, or planning a party for future environmentalists or scientists, "Wildman" Steve Brill is the best.

Tours of most of NYC's parks are scheduled regularly (see our calendar, or Wildman's website, for dates), and include about four hours of foraging, feasting, and fun. You should call to reserve a spot at least 24 hours in advance, to find out where you'll be meeting and give Wildman an idea of how many folks he'll be working with.

His hands-on environmental birthday party, geared toward children ages five and up, consists of a field walk in a local park (Central Park, Prospect Park, and more), focusing on common wild edible and medicinal plants. It puts children in touch with their environment and sparks their interest in science and the practice of conservation; the experience is tailored to the group's educational level and prior environmental experience.

As the kids learn plant identification, "Wildman" introduces botanical and ecological concepts, and uses stories and humor to make the lessons come alive. Kids learn the ethnobotany - traditions of plant use for food, medicine, and crafts - as well as some of the ways folk wisdom complements science.

At the end of the tour, parents may serve birthday cake picnic-style, and "Wildman" plays Happy Birthday on the "Brillophone." Parties can consist of up to 30 children, at a fee of $325.

"Wildman" Steve Brill is also available to work with children's school classes. Contact him for further information.

Mailing address:
"Wildman" Steve Brill
320 Palmer Terrace, 2A
Mamaroneck, NY 10543