Dudley, MA —On a beautiful fall day this past weekend, the Dudley Conservation Land Trust (DCLT) sponsored a free mushroom foraging event led by expert mycologist, Jonathan Krantz. Within steps of the kiosk at the Wieloch Woods sanctuary, we discovered at least a dozen different kinds of fungi, including the beautiful coral mushroom. While most of the mushrooms discovered were not edible, there were a few that participants were able to collect.

We learned that many types of mushrooms partner with specific trees or other plants, and some even hide in the ground and cannot be seen. Many fungi are an important symbiotic partner to these plants, filtering nutrients from deep within the soil, and supplying them to trees in exchange for glucose. Other fungi have the job of decomposing the leaf litter and fallen tree branches on the forest floor to replenish the soil. This symbiotic bond is estimated to be crucial for over 90% of plant species, enabling their survival, growth, and resilience in various ecosystems worldwide.

In general, if foraging for mushrooms to eat, one must study not only how to identify the desirable mushrooms, but also learn to distinguish the ones that should be avoided. Jonathan pointed out that there are two mycology associations – one in Boston and one in Pioneer Valley. If interested, you can get on their mailing list and learn when foraging expeditions are organized. It’s the best way to learn! Fun was had by all and we gained a newfound appreciation for the interconnectedness of organisms in our natural world. How exciting to discover this abundance of life right here in Dudley!