Walk through a local forest or wooded area in East Texas, keeping an eye out for pine, oak, and sweetgum trees.

Focus on finding sticky pine sap, rough bark, or fallen leaves from these trees.

If you find pine sap, think about how it could be used—consider its medicinal qualities. Pine sap was used historically to seal wounds.

Sweetgum trees produce resin that contains compounds similar to those used in cold medicine. Look for any fallen resin or leaves.

As you explore, think about other trees or plants that might have hidden medicinal uses. For example, yaupon holly has caffeine and was used for tea.

Reflect on how early settlers and Indigenous peoples used plants for medicinal purposes and how this knowledge can be helpful today.

After your walk and reflection, you can earn your badge by sharing your discoveries and insights about the plants and their medicinal uses.