Emma Wilson
If you want to become a mushroom expert in New York State, you'll need to know about wild mushroom foraging and food safety regulations. Wild mushrooms must be individually inspected and deemed safe by an approved mushroom identification expert before they can be sold. To become an approved expert, you'll need to undergo training and obtain certification. This typically involves taking a course that covers mushroom identification, anatomy, and safety, as well as learning about the local ecosystem and responsible foraging practices. New York State has specific requirements for selling wild mushrooms, with two agencies regulating food sales: the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) and the New York State Health Department (NYSHD). Foragers should also be aware of poisonous look-alikes and herbicide applications, and stay informed about local rules and regulations for foraging.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushroom Expertise | In-depth knowledge of mushroom identification, including the ability to confidently name 3-5 characteristics and take spore prints |
| Certification | Wild Mushroom Food Safety Certification, approved by the state health department and valid for 5 years |
| Training | Online and in-person classes, workshops, and guided foraging experiences offered by organizations like Mushroom Mountain, Finger Lakes Mushroom Foraging and Identification, and Scenic Hudson |
| Approved Species | Chanterelles, Chicken of the Woods, Hedgehog, Lion's Mane, Oyster Mushroom, Honey Mushroom, Golden and Burgundy Milkies, Bolete Species |
| Regulatory Bodies | New York Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM), New York State Health Department (NYSHD) |
| Legal Considerations | Wild mushrooms must be individually inspected and found safe by an approved expert before sale; foraging is prohibited in New York State parks |
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What You'll Learn
Mushroom identification skills
To become a mushroom expert in New York State, one must be able to identify mushrooms confidently. Here are some essential mushroom identification skills to help you get started:
- Learn the anatomy of mushrooms: Understanding the different parts of a mushroom, such as the cap, gills, stem, and spore-bearing surface, is fundamental to identification. Knowing the anatomical features will help you distinguish between similar-looking mushrooms.
- Develop observation skills: Pay attention to the details of each mushroom you encounter. Observe the colour, shape, size, texture, and any unique characteristics of the mushroom. Look for distinctive features, such as the presence of a ring or cup at the base of the stem, or the colour and arrangement of the gills.
- Take spore prints: Making spore prints is a critical technique for mushroom identification. By placing the cap of a mushroom on a piece of paper or glass and leaving it overnight, you can capture the spore print, which reveals the colour and pattern of the spores. This characteristic is often species-specific and can help in identification.
- Understand the habitat and seasonality: Different mushrooms thrive in specific habitats and during particular seasons. Learn about the typical environments where certain mushrooms grow, such as woodlands, meadows, or near certain types of trees. Also, be aware of the seasonal patterns of mushroom fruiting to time your foraging excursions accordingly.
- Study field guides and resources: Familiarize yourself with comprehensive field guides and online resources that provide detailed descriptions and images of various mushroom species. Cross-reference your observations with these resources to narrow down potential matches. Look for resources specific to your region, as local guides will be more applicable to the mushrooms you're likely to encounter.
- Practice with common, safe species: Start by focusing on commonly found mushrooms in your area that are well-known and safe to handle. This way, you can gain confidence in your identification skills without risking confusion with toxic varieties. Some of the common edible mushrooms in New York State include Chanterelles, Chicken of the Woods, Oyster mushrooms, and Lion's Mane.
- Be aware of toxic look-alikes: As you learn about edible mushrooms, also study their toxic counterparts to avoid potential dangers. Some mushrooms have deadly look-alikes, so being able to distinguish between them is crucial. For example, the Galerina species closely resembles the edible straw mushroom but is highly poisonous.
- Join guided forays and workshops: Consider participating in guided forays led by experienced mycologists or mushroom enthusiasts. These outings provide opportunities to learn from experts and improve your identification skills in natural settings. Additionally, workshops can offer hands-on experience in identifying and cultivating mushrooms.
- Utilize online communities and forums: Engage with online communities, such as local mycology clubs or mushroom identification forums, to connect with other enthusiasts and experts. These platforms can provide valuable insights, identification tips, and feedback on your mushroom finds.
- Maintain a mushroom journal: Record your mushroom observations, locations, and any relevant notes in a journal. Documenting your findings helps build a personal reference library and allows you to track your progress in identification over time.
Developing mushroom identification skills requires a combination of knowledge acquisition, practical experience, and a keen eye for detail. Always exercise caution when foraging for mushrooms, and never consume a mushroom unless you are absolutely certain of its edibility. With time and practice, you can become proficient in mushroom identification and work towards becoming a recognized mushroom expert in New York State.
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How to sell wild mushrooms in New York State
In New York, two agencies are responsible for regulating foods for sale. To sell wild mushrooms, you must comply with both, depending on the market channels you plan to use. The New York Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) has jurisdiction over wild foraged mushrooms and direct retail sales only. The New York State Health Department (NYSHD) is responsible for sales to food vendors such as restaurants and grocery markets.
Neither the NYSDAM nor the NYSHD licenses, certifies, or approves individuals for wild mushroom foraging. Instead, an existing recognised expert must approve each individual as an "approved mushroom identification expert". To be an approved expert, you must have met the requirements of knowledge and passed an exam.
One way to become an approved expert is to attend a certification course and pass an exam demonstrating competence in identification by an approved firm. Mushroom Mountain LLC is currently the only organisation that offers a certification valid in multiple states, including New York. Their course includes a wild mushroom foraging permit that meets the criteria required by the state health departments and is formally approved for the foraging and selling of wild mushrooms in New York.
Another organisation that offers mushroom identification training is the Uncanoonuc Foraging Company, which offers walks to introduce people to culinary mushrooms.
It is important to note that wild mushrooms cannot be legally sold until new food codes are adopted. The NYSHD recommends that anyone who completes a certification notify their local county health department of their intention to sell and their qualifications as an expert before making any sales.
Finally, it is worth noting that psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are illegal in New York. It is a crime to knowingly possess, sell or manufacture them, and charges can result in years of prison time.
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Mushroom foraging guides
Finger Lakes Mushroom Foraging and Identification, NY, USA
Finger Lakes Mushroom Foraging and Identification offers a wild mushroom identification class that teaches participants how to safely forage for wild mushrooms. The class covers mushroom anatomy and the steps of observation, including how to take a spore print. The class also covers where and when to find mushrooms, how to prepare and preserve them, and how to identify potential toxic look-alikes. The class is open to anyone 16 or older and costs $95 per person or $150 for two people.
Mushroom Mountain
Mushroom Mountain offers a Wild Mushroom Food Safety Certification course that is approved in multiple states, including New York. The course is taught by approved and experienced instructors and results in a 5-year certification. The course covers the criteria required by state health departments for the foraging and selling of wild mushrooms. The cost of the course is not specified.
New York Mycological Society
The New York Mycological Society is a citizen mycologist group that offers resources and community for mushroom enthusiasts in New York. They offer newsletters, zines, and other educational materials for members. They may also be able to provide information on mushroom foraging guides or courses in the area.
Foraging Guides in the Hudson Valley
Guides such as O'Neill can help residents and visitors of the Hudson Valley discover and responsibly harvest the region's bounty of wild edible mushrooms. O'Neill holds state certification for identifying mushrooms and has extensive knowledge of foraging from his career in the restaurant industry and beyond. He leads guided foraging experiences in the Hudson Valley and believes that locally sourced wild mushrooms could be the defining ingredient of the region's cuisine.
Additional Resources
For those interested in becoming a mushroom expert specifically for selling wild mushrooms in New York State, it is important to note that neither the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) nor the New York State Health Department (NYSHD) engages to license, certify, or approve individuals for wild mushroom foraging. However, firms that offer mushroom identification training may submit their approvals of an individual's expertise to NYSDAM, and NYSHD will honor a mushroom identification certification that has been accepted by NYSDAM. Wild mushrooms cannot be sold until new food codes are adopted, and anyone who completes a certification is recommended to notify their local county health department before any sales.
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Mushroom anatomy and observation
To become a mushroom expert in New York State, one must be well-versed in mushroom anatomy and observation skills. This includes understanding the different parts of a mushroom and their functions, as well as knowing how to identify mushrooms accurately.
Mushroom anatomy: Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi, and they play a crucial role in the fungus's life cycle. While the fungus itself is mostly hidden, mushrooms are the visible part that helps in spore dispersal and reproduction. The main parts of a mushroom include:
- Cap: This is the upper part of the mushroom, also known as the pileus. It is usually umbrella-shaped and can vary in colour, size, and texture depending on the species. The cap often has gills or pores on its underside, which are responsible for spore production and dispersal.
- Gills: These are the thin, radiating blades found on the underside of the cap in some mushrooms. They are responsible for producing and releasing spores, aiding in the mushroom's reproduction.
- Spores: These are microscopic reproductive cells produced by the gills or pores. They are essential for the fungus's life cycle, as they can germinate and grow into new fungi when dispersed.
- Stipe: This is the stem of the mushroom that supports the cap. It can be central or offset and may have a ring or skirt-like structure called an annulus.
- Veil: Some mushrooms have a thin membrane called a partial veil that connects the cap to the stipe during early development. As the mushroom matures, the veil may tear and leave a ring around the stipe or fragments on the cap.
Observation and identification: Accurate mushroom identification is crucial, especially when foraging for wild mushrooms. Here are the key steps in the observation process:
- Start by examining the mushroom's habitat and the type of trees or plants it is associated with. Different mushrooms have specific ecological preferences.
- Note the colour, size, and shape of the cap, gills, and stipe. Look for any distinctive features such as scales, warts, or a ring on the stipe.
- Observe the gills or pores. Their colour, spacing, and attachment to the stipe can provide important identification clues.
- Check the base of the stipe to see if it has a bulbous shape, a volva (a cup-like structure), or root-like rhizomorphs.
- Take a spore print by placing the mushroom gill-side down on a piece of paper and covering it with a glass or bowl. The spores will drop onto the paper, forming a spore print that can help with identification.
- Smell and taste are also important senses to use when identifying mushrooms, but this should be done with caution, and only if you are confident in your knowledge.
- Use field guides and mushroom identification keys to help narrow down the possibilities and confirm the identification.
In New York State, there are various resources available for learning about mushroom anatomy and identification, including classes, workshops, and guided foraging experiences. These experiences can provide hands-on education and help individuals develop the skills needed to become mushroom experts.
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How to grow your own mushrooms
Mushroom enthusiasts in New York State can explore the fascinating world of mycology by becoming mushroom experts. Here's a guide on how to grow your own mushrooms as part of your journey towards becoming a mushroom expert:
Getting Started:
Start by familiarizing yourself with the basics of mushroom biology and ecology. Understand the life cycle of mushrooms, their role in the ecosystem, and the different types of mushrooms commonly found in New York State. You can refer to online resources, books, and local mycological societies for information specific to your region.
Spawning and Substrate Preparation:
Obtain mushroom spawn, which is the mycelium, or the vegetative part of the mushroom, that will grow and produce mushrooms. You can purchase spawn from reputable suppliers, ensuring it's specific to the mushroom variety you want to cultivate. Common varieties to consider for beginners include oyster, lion's mane, shiitake, and king stropharia.
Prepare a substrate, which is the growing medium for your mushrooms. The type of substrate depends on the mushroom variety. Common substrates include straw, sawdust, wood chips, or grain spawn. Prepare the substrate by sterilizing it to avoid contamination and then inoculate it with the spawn. This process involves mixing the spawn with the substrate to encourage mycelium growth.
Creating a Growing Environment:
Mushrooms thrive in humid, temperature-controlled environments. You can create a growing chamber or use containers with lids to control the environment. Maintain a temperature range of 60-75°F, and ensure a humidity level of 70-90%. You can achieve this by misting the substrate regularly or using a humidifier.
Harvesting and Care:
Mushrooms typically take a few weeks to a month to fruit. Keep a close eye on your growing medium, and once you see the mushrooms start to form, maintain the humidity and provide fresh air circulation to prevent molding. Harvest the mushrooms at the right stage of maturity by twisting or cutting them at the base. Properly storing your harvest will ensure a longer shelf life.
Practice and Experimentation:
Growing mushrooms is a skill honed through practice and experimentation. Try growing different varieties, using various substrates, and refining your growing environment. Keep detailed notes on your processes, as this will help you identify successful techniques and troubleshoot any issues.
Remember, growing your own mushrooms is just one aspect of becoming a mushroom expert. Continue to educate yourself about mushroom identification, foraging practices, and the ecological role of fungi. Join local mycological societies, participate in mushroom walks, and seek out expert guidance to further develop your expertise.
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Frequently asked questions
In New York, two agencies regulate foods for sale: the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) and the New York State Health Department (NYSHD). To sell wild mushrooms, you must comply with both, depending on the market channels you plan to sell to. Wild mushrooms must be individually inspected and found to be safe by an approved mushroom identification expert.
There is no official licensing, certification, or approval process for individuals to become approved mushroom identification experts in New York State. However, firms offering mushroom identification training may submit their approvals of an individual's expertise to NYSDAM. Additionally, NYSHD will honor a mushroom identification certification that has been accepted by NYSDAM.
There are several options for mushroom identification training in New York State. Finger Lakes Mushroom Foraging and Identification offers in-depth, indoor identification classes, as well as optional outdoor mushroom walks. FLXMushrooms also provides a Top 10 edible mushrooms class that covers mushroom anatomy, observation skills, and spore print techniques. Another option is the Wild Mushroom Food Safety Certification offered by Mushroom Mountain, which is a 5-year certification taught by approved and experienced instructors.
Foragers should follow responsible harvesting practices and adhere to local regulations, such as restrictions on foraging in certain areas like Scenic Hudson parks and New York State parks. It is crucial to be aware of poisonous mushroom species and herbicide applications. Foraging should be done responsibly, avoiding any harm to the local ecosystem.
O'Neill, a state-certified mushroom identifier, offers guided foraging experiences in the Hudson Valley. Additionally, Stacey Estabrook, the founder of FLXMushrooms, is a certified wild mushroom forager who teaches wild mushroom identification classes based on their extensive knowledge and experience.
