A Maidu Way of Life

A Maidu Way of Life

May 15, 2010

Heart K Ranch. Photo by the Feather River Land Trust

This exciting tour, focused on the Mountain Maidu, will be led by Farrell Cunningham whose ancestors have lived in this area for at least two thousand years. Farrell's father, Marvin, has lived in Indian Valley all his life and was born and raised in Genesee Valley. Farrell is active in the promotion of Mountain Maidu history, culture, and traditional ecology; he currently teaches Maidu language courses in Grass Valley.


Farrell Cunningham discusses Maidu culture with tour participants.	The Heart K Ranch. Photo by Feather River Land Trust.

The tour begins with a presentation on the history of the valley. The Heart K Ranch is owned by the Feather River Land Trust; the land trust’s president, Betsy Kraemer, manages the property. Betsy will describe the role of the land trust and discuss the history and restoration of buildings on the ranch. Participants will then enjoy a casual one-mile hike on the Heart K property, stopping along the way to discuss Maidu history, culture, and language, as well as native vegetation, food gathering and preparation, and forest management.

Tour itinerary (tentative)
10:00AM	Meet at the Sierra Institute office
10:15	Drive to the Heart K Ranch in Genesee Valley
10:45	Introduction to the area and the Heart K property Refreshments available
11:45	Walk to Indian Creek: Discuss riparian habitats and importance of willows. Walk to oak grove: Discuss the importance of oaks to the Maidu, food sources, and food preparation.
1:30PM	Lunch
2:15	Native plant identification walk Maidu language and culture will also be discussed
2:30	Discuss traditional forest management
3:30	Final thoughts and questions
4:00	Tour concludes

Register for this tour online or call us at (530) 284-1022

We offer discounts if you register for more than one tour (per person) in advance. Call for details: (530) 284-1022.

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