Who is The Wild Dryad?
Hi I'm Shane Alden, I'm a self-taught illustrator, botanist, and educator who has been featured on the Chicago Tribune, the Wild Edible World Podcast, and more. I've been teaching communities about about botany for 5 years now and I've recently collaborated with the Conservation Foundation and the The Chicago Field Museum of Natural History as an instructor teaching about edible wild plants.
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I studied acting and improv at Second City which has allowed for a steady transition into teaching and on-camera work. I've always had an interest in the outdoors but began gaining a passion for botany while drawing plants and becoming aware of aquaponics. Sharing my learning endeavors has garnered a community of over 500,000 people across different platforms.
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I've traveled to several countries and cities for research on plants and ecology. In addition to North American ecology, I also studied Southeast Asian plants in Indonesia.
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I believe that creating a healthy environment through hands-on learning and research can aid anyone who is willing to learn about the natural world around them.
What should I expect from a workshop?
All classes tend to run for 2-3 hours depending on location! Students can expect to walk or stand for most of the class time, taste some of the specimens shown, and be prepared with a pen paper and notebook though not required.
Where do you host events?
Most workshops are held around the Chicagoland area. (Illinois/Indiana) Sometimes I venture out of state for festivals and classes! For special events check the workshops page or social media for out of state events.
Are workshops canceled during bad weather?
Most events are held outside and in the event of severe weather, students can reschedule or refund bought tickets. However in most cases we continue with the class rain or shine. Tickets need to be refunded prior to 24hr before class.
Do you accommodate people with disabilities?
​To be transparent I myself do not have much experience with accommodating those with disabilities however, If you have specific accessibility needs and you want to come on a foraging walk, please reach out through my contact page! We'll work to find a workshop that best fits!
Is TheWildDryad a Nonprofit organization?
No. TheWildDryad is not a Nonprofit and we do not recieve grants; however it is a family owned business. Three people including myself, (Shane Alden) run the entire business. We do charge for some walks however most revenue covers our operating cost.
Resources from paid walks help to provide more free events that are accessible around Chicago and communities that don't have access to these opportunities.
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We hope to one day garner enough funds to buy 200+ acres of vacant land and restore it into a open community Nature Center!
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't see your question here? Reach out to www.thewilddryad73@gmail for questions or click the contact page below!