Make shroom for one more fun(gi) event

Mushrooms are visible all year in the Pacific Norwest, but the favorites for foraging only pop up for a few, precious months. Join the Lincoln County Mycological Society this Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Gleneden Beach Community Center for a special one-day 50th anniversary and “end-of-season” North County Mushroom Show.

The event features freshly foraged and identified mushroom specimens, display tables, craft and learning booths, local forays, microscope displays on soil fungi, a children’s “fungi craft” table, mushroom ID book sales, mycological society membership information and t-shirts, and vendors of mushroom goods, wares and crafts.

The centerpiece of the event are the table displays of fresh-picked fungal specimens from local forests, yards, fields and parks. Each specimen will be labeled with its common and scientific names, as well as its edibility. (Or not!)

Throughout the day, knowledgeable and experienced members of the society will be on hand, ready to answer your questions about local fungi, or help ID something that you might have found in your yard. They can also share foraging or cooking tips.

In addition to the local group, members from the Cascade Mycological Society and the North American Truffle Society will be helping out with displays.

This mushroom show harkens back to the beginnings of the Lincoln County Mycological Society, formed 50 years ago by the now-91-year-old Freda Holloran. The very first mushroom show in the area was held in Depoe Bay in 1974.

Mycological society members will lead three forays during the day, limited to 12 people each. To register for the forays, email kimmarie1986@gmail.com or call 503-341-8610.

The event runs from 9 am to 4 pm at the Gleneden Beach Community Center, located at 110 Azalea Street. For more information, go to LCMycoSociety.org.