Summer is in full swing, and serviceberries will soon be reaching peak ripeness across the valley! Because they ripen and dry out quickly in the summer heat, soon it'll be time to head out and harvest. This month is known as ksiyaʔtn (Time of Serviceberry) in nsəlxcin, the Indigenous language of this place, marking the traditional season to gather this vital First Food.
We invite you to join the Methow Valley Interpretive Center in collecting a bountiful harvest of serviceberries to share with the Native community later this year. Known as siyaʔ in nsəlxcin, the serviceberry is a sacred food to the Methow People. Alongside Deerr, Chinook, and Bitterroot, siyaʔ is one of the four Food Chiefs, holding a foundational place in traditional culture. The Methow Valley is historically renowned for both the quality and abundance of its siyaʔ. Taking the time to harvest and prepare this gift is a meaningful way to practice reciprocity and restore relationships with the land and Native Peoples. The gathered berries will be used for First Foods ceremonies, educational programs, and as gifts for Methow elders.
Serviceberry Drop-Off and Celebration with Methow People
Saturday, July 18th, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Methow Valley Interpretive Center
Gather Serviceberries ➔ Dry or Refrigerate ➔ Bring Them to MVIC!
Join us at the center to celebrate the harvest! We will have dried serviceberries for you to sample, dehydrators running, and a BBQ grill fired up. Bring something to throw on the grill or a side dish to share if you'd like!
How to Prepare Your Berries: Our vision is for community members to head out, offer thanks to this beautiful landscape, and harvest a shared bounty of siyaʔ.
Preferred Method: Please dry your berries at home before bringing them in.
Second Option: Keep them fresh in the fridge.
Can't dry them? No problem! Bring your berries to the gathering on July 18th (or drop them off afterward by appointment), and we will dehydrate them for you.
Please note: We ask that you avoid freezing the berries this year, using this method only as an absolute last resort.
A Note on Biodiversity: Did you know there are between 5 and 9 different nsəlxcin names for what we call the serviceberry or saskatoon? These distinct names reflect the plant's incredible diversity. As you harvest, pay close attention: Are the bushes tall or short? Are the berries deeply sweet or mild? Do they dry easily?
🏷️ Important: Please remember to label your jar or bag with the specific location where you gathered them. Knowing their origin helps us honor and track the valley's distinct berry varieties.
To coordinate a drop-off or ask questions, contact us at mvinterpretivecenter@gmail.com. Happy gathering!