General Description
Help us learn more about the fungus among us. During the MycoBlitz, volunteers will have the chance to explore Spring Lake Park Reserve in search of fungi. Eager to learn about mushrooms and spend time outside? This opportunity is for you!
Fungi are incredibly important yet overlooked in our ecosystems. Some fungi form important and beneficial relationships with plants and trees. They also decompose organic matter, making it re-usable for other organisms. Without fungi, we would be neck deep in detritus!
Very little is known about fungal diversity in Dakota County. This event will contribute to the MN Mycoflora Project, and staff will be on hand to help identify specimens and prepare them for the Bell Museum mycological collection. Mushroom experts will be on hand throughout the event to help with identification and to share their knowledge about these mysterious organisms.
This is a rare opportunity for the public to legally collect mushrooms in Dakota County Parks, so don't miss this in-depth and fun learning opportunity.
Spring Lake Park Reserve offers both walking and biking paths. Participants are welcome to bring their bikes and helmets to the event in order to explore more areas in the park and search for mushrooms at the same time.
Location
Spring Lake Park Reserve
Schaar’s Bluff Gathering Center
8395 127th St E, Hastings, MN 55033
Date/Time
Saturday, August 31st
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
What to Bring
- Water bottle
- Smart phone or tablet with iNaturalist app downloaded (we can provide download instructions in e-mail sent to registered volunteers)
- Basket or bag to carry mushroom samples
- Bikes and helmets (optional)
Duties and Responsibilities
- Help collect fungi in the park and learn about the importance of fungi from experts.
Minimum Qualifications
- All ages welcome. Children are welcome with an adult present.
- Must be comfortable working in an outdoor environment.
- Smart phone or ipad device with iNatrualist app
Activity Level
Mild to Moderate
Contact Information
Chris Klatt – Natural Resources Specialist
christian.klatt@co.dakota.mn.us
952-891-7947
