This summer, Fullsteam Brewery is helping TLC to fight back against invasive plants! On July 21st we’re teaming up with for an Autumn Olive Harvest to help rid Irvin Farm of one of the most destructive non-native plants in the area. Autumn olive is an invasive species that out-competes and displaces native plants by creating a dense shade that hinders the growth of plants that need lots of sun. It can produce up to 200,000 seeds each year, which are easily dispersed because birds love their sweet/tart fruit and now, so do brewers! With your help, we are going to cut back invasive autumn olive shrubs, harvest the berries, plant native species in their place, and then take the fruits to Fullsteam for them to become an invasive ale!
Chatham Ciderworks is also “pear”ing up with us for another delicious partnership. This time using the pears from some old trees at Irvin Farm! We’ll pick some pears then celebrate a job well done with a cider tasting in the shade. All foragers will also get a wooden nickel for a free beer at Fullsteam! Then keep an eye out for original brews made from the very fruits of your labor. The time is ripe!
Sunscreen, long pants, and close-toed shoes are recommended for this event. All tools will be provided but volunteers may bring their own gloves if they would like and should bring a water bottle, refills will be available on site.
