Adult Field Course: Fungi in the Cloud Forest

The southern Appalachians are world-renowned for different types of fungi, from mushrooms to lichens, and are home to more than 2,000 species. Learn about the lifestyle and habitats of fungi, as well as observe many kinds of fungal fruiting bodies, including mushrooms growing at higher elevations. Julie Mullis leads the course. Mullis is currently in her 12th season as an interpretive ranger on the Blue Ridge Parkway and has also enjoyed seasons as an environmental educator at Tongass National Forest in Alaska, W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in Wilkesboro, and Grandfather Mountain.

After an interactive introduction to the fungi kingdom, which includes inoculating a log to take home, the class will take a short, slow stroll in search of mushrooms growing on the mountain to collect representatives of different fungal families to study back in the classroom. Through this workshop and field exploration, you’ll learn about fungal habitats, toxicology and the important roles fungi play in the forest ecosystem. The workshop is designed for beginners, but veteran foragers will also glean new insights.

The course is part of Grandfather Mountain’s Adult Field Course series, which offers participants the chance to explore the mountain like never before. Students examine specific aspects of the park ecosystem through fun, hands-on field excursions. Course leaders are experts in their fields and include professors, naturalists, scientists and acclaimed photographers, writers, historians and artists.

Cost is $60 per person (or $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club program), with registration required in advance. Click here to register.