Leslie Lekos Herbalist at Wildroot Botanicals

Leslie Lekos leads a kelp harvesting workshop at Fort Ebey State Park, where students learn to identify and collect seaweed along the Whidbey Island coastline. Participants must obtain a Washington state fishing license and bring their own tools for the safe harvesting process. Lekos stresses the importance of respecting the land, stating, "how to be good stewards and how to promote health the best way that we can. " As the founder of Wildroot Botanicals, she has taught foraging and herbalism for over ten years, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Whatcom County. Her workshops cover a range of wild foods, from berries in summer to mushrooms in fall.

Lekos emphasizes that the plants continually teach her, fostering a community connection with nature. She teaches on her six-acre property and other accessible lands, enriching her students' experiences. "Being out in nature, I feel like just sparks your soul alive," she notes, reflecting her passion for herbalism and education.