Many folks are fascinated by mushrooms, especially Alabama folks, with our abundant land and forests.

But what about mushrooms inside an urban/suburban area? The mushroom experts at Fungi Farm say there are many mushrooms in a limited area of land and woods, even in YOUR yard.

The mushroom guys are coming to Alabama.  They hold a series of half-day classes at several Alabama locations.  The next class is in Mobile on Saturday at Medal of Honor Park from 9 to 11 a.m.

Other Alabama classes are in Daphne, Dadeville and Auburn.

Classes cost $20 and include all supplies needed to forage and to continue foraging on your own time.

Complete information on all Alabama classes and ticket purchases can be found here.

Muahroomforay Alabama News
Mushroom foray. Image: Fungi Farm

Here is their announcement:

The best way to learn mushroom identification is firsthand. Touch and smell are some of the best senses one can utilize for identifying mushrooms. If lack of experience or access to property is an issue, then connect with us for an opportunity to learn in the field with experienced foragers.

In this class you will learn the basics of mushroom identification. You will also learn to identify edible mushrooms, toxic mushrooms, and their common look-a-likes. Furthermore, best practices for harvesting, transporting, and preserving mushrooms are covered. Finally, you will be given ample resources to continue your mushroom education independently.

This excursion takes place in a beautiful natural setting where we can guarantee plenty of fresh air and new knowledge. The best part? All necessary tools are provided by us so anyone who signs up has nothing else they need to worry about except having some quality time outdoors surrounded by nature.

Please wear appropriate hiking clothes and bring snacks, water, and bug spray if needed.

You must register online before attending. Children 12 and under attend for free.

About the Leader: 

This foray is led by James Hartshorn. James is an experienced forager with a passion for fungi. He is an Athens County, Georgia local. His main interests are natural identification and commanding the forest. With five years of experience in foraging and cultivation, James is a true man of the woods. 

The host of the classes, Fungi Farm, is located in Dadeville in Tallapoosa County on the south side of the Tallapoosa River. (Whether you are on the Tallapoosa River's north or south side is an important distinction understood by local folks there). Find more information here.

"Nature alone is antique, and the oldest art a mushroom."  — Thomas Carlyle

Jim Zeigler is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.

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