Summer Mushroom Walk with Shane Gardner

Join OCCA and local mushroom enthusiast Shane Gardner for our first mushroom walk of the season. This guided exploration will take participants through a mixed hardwood forest on Vibbard Road in Cooperstown, offering a chance to discover the fascinating world of wild fungi in their natural habitat.

Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced mushroom hunter, Shane aims to broaden your understanding of mushrooms by sharing knowledge of local species, their ecological roles, and the characteristics used to identify them. Along the way, participants will learn about edible and medicinal mushrooms, common lookalikes, and the habitats where different fungi thrive.

This is a true woodland walk through uneven terrain and off-trail forest, providing an authentic opportunity to observe mushrooms where they naturally occur. Nature lovers, foragers, photographers, and anyone interested in learning more about the hidden world beneath the forest canopy are encouraged to attend.

Meeting Location:
Vibbard Road, Cooperstown (at the highest point on the road)

What to Bring:

• Long pants and sturdy footwear

• Clothing appropriate for the weather

• Shoes you don’t mind getting muddy

Participants should be prepared for a walk through the woods without established trails. Terrain may be uneven, and conditions may be wet depending on recent weather.

Sign up with OCCA