Experts available for identification help; samples welcome

The annual mushroom shows presented by local mycological organizations are coming up this month, offering visitors the chance to have their questions answered, mushrooms indentified, and learn about the hundreds of species that grow in the Northwest.

The entrance to a previous Wild Mushroom Show. Nearly 300 varieties of mushrooms growing in our area will be displayed for viewing, identified by genus and species, and with edibility recommendations. PHOTO BY ZACHARY BROWN

The 30th Annual Wild Mushroom Show, presented by the Northwest Mushroomers Association, will be Sunday, Oct. 20 at Bloedel Donovan Park in Bellingham from noon to 5 p.m. Nearly 300 varieties of mushrooms growing in our area will be displayed for viewing, identified by genus and species, and with edibility recommendations. Visitors can learn how to tell species apart, focus on look-alikes, and see information on some mushrooms’ medicinal properties. Children’s activities and mushroom identification also available. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, and children are free. For more information visit www.northwestmushroomers.org.

The Snohomish County Mycological Society presents their annual mushroom show in cooperation with Everett Parks & Recreation on Sunday, Oct. 20. The show features a display of wild mushrooms collected by SCMS members, mushroom kits, a free class on mushroom identification at 1 p.m., books, videos, and raffle. The event is free, and donations are accepted.

Learn to distinguish more than 100 different species of wild mushrooms. Mushrooms are collected in season and placed on display. The public is welcome to bring their own discoveries for possible identification by an expert. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Floral Hall at Forest Park, 802 E. Mukilteo Blvd., Everett. For more information, visit www.scmsfungi.org.

Visitors are welcome to bring mushroom samples for possible identification. PHOTO BY CAROL KILGORE

Wild Whatcom is hosting a Fungus Among Us outing on Sunday, Oct. 27. Join Northwest Mushroomers Association mycologists, Pam Borso and Dr. Fred Rhoades, for this hands-on opportunity to get to know mushrooms in our local parks. The outing starts at 10 a.m. Location to be announced.

The suggested donation is adults (18+) $12, children (ages 4-17) $8, and children 3 and under free. (Babies worn in carriers welcome.) Registration is required. Group size is limited. Email Program Coordinator, Holly Roger, at holly@wildwhatcom.org.

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