Stephen Byers, a clinical herbalist, is offering a retreat from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 17, at the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. Topics to be covered include an exploration of the diverse ecosystems of Middle Creek; ways to read nature’s clues about medicinal plants; discussion about plant taste, color, doctrine of signatures and growth habitats; and learning directly from the plants. The retreat includes direct teaching, collective discussion, silent reflection and journaling.

Attendees should be dressed and prepared for the weather and bring comfortable walking shoes or waterproof hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle (which can be refilled at the visitors’ center), snacks, lunch and a notebook or journal.

Byers, who practices in Gap, integrates herbal traditions from around the world with modern science, specializing in digestive, hormonal, cardiovascular and mood issues. His apothecary contains more than 150 herbal teas and tinctures for custom formulation, as well as nutrient-dense dietary protocols with probiotic-rich foods.

Cost: $75/person. Location: Middle Creek Visitors Center, 100 Museum Rd., Stevens. For preregistration (required by May 10) and more information, call 717-471-2446, email [email protected] or visit StephenByersHerbalist.com.