TRIP TO CAIRO FOSSIL FOREST

The MCA Traditional Medicines (TMP) and Land-Based Healing (LBH) Programs will be hosting a trip to the Cairo Fossil Forest, located near Cairo, NY, on May 22, 2026. The trip well span two (days), but the second day activities are optional. 

The Cairo Fossil Forest is a fossilized forest near Cairo, NY which dates back 386 million years, and echoes the Haudenosaunee legend of the “First Garden.”  

Friday, May 22 — Cairo Fossil Forest
Departure from Kateri Hall at 7:00 a.m. 

• Tobacco burning with respected Kanien’kéha elder Tom Porter
• Guided tour of the Cairo Fossil Forest with Dr. Charles Ver Straeten, PhD., Devonian/Sedimentary Geology
• Community potluck gathering
• Optional overnight stay at Kanatsiohareke (participants must bring their own sleeping accommodations)    

Saturday, May 23 — Little Falls Diamond Mine
Departure from Kateri Hall at 7:00 a.m. 

• Guided visit to the Little Falls Diamond Mine with botanist Kierin Bell 
• Medicinal plant teachings with Alicia Cook, Traditional Medicine Specialist
• Return trip home following completion of the tour 

Registration for participation is required and spaces are limited. Participants will be asked to use their own transportation and carpooling is being encouraged.

To register, or for more information, please contact Alicia Cook at alicia.cook@akwesasne.ca or by calling 315-600-7175.