A Walk in the Forest: Mushroom Gathering 101

On Saturday, March 20 at 2:00 p.m., nature enthusiast and mushroom forager, Julie Powell, will present "A Walk in the Forest," an introduction to the basic skills of mushroom gathering.

April begins the official season for mushroom foraging in Northeast Ohio, especially wild morels which are considered Ohio’s delicacy. Wild mushrooms are far preferred over harvested mushrooms for their depth and range of flavor. Foraging in Ohio continues through the summer and fall, giving gatherers the opportunity to experience a variety of species as the season progresses.

Marrying the technical information garnered from courses in mycology (the study of fungi) with years of hands-on foraging experience, Ms. Powell shares her passion with others. A self-taught artist, she uses her detailed mushroom sculptures to supplement her seminars, giving attendees the opportunity to closely examine each species before attempting to identify them in nature.

The information contained in this free program will include identifying edible and non-edible species, as well as identifying specific trees under which these mushrooms grow: Find the tree—find the mushroom. In addition to those used in the program, a selection of Ms. Powell’s sculptures will be on display during the program.

No registration is required for this free program.

The Massillon Public Library is located at 208 Lincoln Way East. The Second Street entrance is handicapped accessible. For more information, caontact the library at 330.832.9831 ext 311.