Classes & Workshops

This workshop will cover several low-tech mushroom cultivation and cloning techniques. We will inoculate logs with Shiitake mushroom spawn, a mulch bed with Blewit (Clitocybe nuda) spawn and wheat straw in buckets with Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) spawn. You will learn easy low-tech methods for sterilization and pastuerization of substrates. We will also discuss tecniques for cloning wild mushrooms and using low-tech to cultivate them. You may want to take notes so bring a note book. Wear clothes that you don't mind getting a little dirty. work or gardening gloves are also recomended  This workshop will be personally taught by Brian Hale. We will break for lunch at noon for 1 hr. There are several places to eat within a few minutes drive or you can bring your own lunch and eat on site. 

 On this hike we will study 15 to 20 wild flowers and plants of interest as we come to them. We will discuss a variety of possible uses for each plant ranging from food and medicine to utilitarian purposes such as dyes, cordage, tinder, building materials and more. We will discuss the seasonal appearance of flowers and fruits for easy Identification and when to harvest each plant for different purposes. 

 During this hike you will learn techniques for locating and harvesting 15-20 different wild edible fungi, plants, tree leaves, buds & fruits. Some of these edibles may also have herbal uses. We will cover identification, cultivation (forest farming) and ethical harvest for each of these species. You will learn to prepare, preserve and store each item that we discuss. It is highly recommended that you bring a notebook as we will cover a great deal of information. 

 Brian Hale will lead attendees on a short hike to observe and Identify wild mushrooms in the area. We will discuss mushroom morphology supported with visual aid before, during, and after the hike.  You will probably want to take notes so bring a note book and pen. Please bring a small hand lens. Wear close toed shoes and long pants. You may want to bring some insect repellent and sunscreen as well. Please check the forcast and dress accordingly.