Mystical mushroom foraging walk

Description:

Join us for a captivating journey through the enchanting world of wild mushrooms! Our Mushroom Foraging Walk is a delightful outdoor experience that will introduce you to the fascinating fungi that thrive in our local forests. Led by licensed mushroom forager Cole Phelps,

this educational excursion promises to be both informative and enchanting.

Date: 09/20/2023

Time: 9am – 12pm

Location: Meet at Peggy Crosby Center

Cost: $30 for members, $50 for non-members

Overview:

Our guided mushroom foraging walk is designed for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to learn about the fascinating world of fungi. Led by a licensed forager of the Southern Appalachians, this excursion promises an educational and immersive experience that will deepen your connection with nature and with fungi!

Things you’ll learn:

Getting to Know Mushrooms: Embark on a leisurely walk through the forest, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural surroundings. Along the way, our guide will share insights into the different types of mushrooms, their life cycles, and their roles in the ecosystem.

Mushroom Identification: Pause at various points along the trail to examine different types of mushrooms. Our guide will teach you how to identify common edible, medicinal, and poisonous mushrooms, emphasizing the importance of knowing your fungi and responsible foraging practices.

Ecological Insights: Gain insights into the symbiotic relationships between fungi, trees, and other forest inhabitants. Learn about the ecological significance of mushrooms in nutrient cycling and forest health.

Foraging Techniques: Discover the art of responsible mushroom harvesting. Our guide will demonstrate proper techniques for collecting mushrooms while leaving minimal impact on the environment.

Cultural and Historical Context: We will delve into the cultural and historical significance of mushrooms in various cultures, Exploring their use in traditional medicine, folklore, and cuisine.

Conservation and Ethical Foraging: We will discuss the importance of preserving mushroom habitats and ecosystems, and learn about ethical foraging practices, including leaving no trace and sustainable harvesting.

What to Bring:

• Sturdy walking shoes or boots
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Water bottle
• Notebook and pen for taking notes
• Camera or smartphone for capturing the beauty of the forest

Please note that this Mushroom Walk is designed to be an educational and conservation-focused experience. Participants are encouraged to respect the forest and its inhabitants and leave no trace. We will not be foraging on this walk. Your safety and the well-being of the forest ecosystem are our top priorities.

NOTE: Permission is needed by HCLT to forage on HCLT properties.

Don't miss this chance to connect with nature, learn about the incredible world of mushrooms, and explore the wonders of the forest on our Mushroom Foraging Walk. Reserve your spot by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Only 10 spots available!

Interested but do not have the financial means? Reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for scholarship opportunities!

The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust (HCLT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the natural heritage of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau for future generations. HCLT protects the unique and diverse array of plant and animal life, scenic views, and rural character of the Plateau through land conservation, stewardship, and education. To learn how Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, a nationally accredited nonprofit organization, is conserving valuable land resources for all generations, visit www.hicashlt.org. Together, we are saving our most treasured places.