Needham Community Education

Walk Powisset's woodlands and meadows, guided by Powisset's mycologist, Amanda, who will provide tips for locating and identifying fungi. Amanda will discuss the role of fungi in the ecosystem, how sustenance foraging can be utilized to diversify our diets and combat food insecurity, as well as the future possibilities of mushrooms as medicine, cosmetics and a valuable source of protein in our growing and changing world. There will be a focus on safety while foraging, how to avoid poisonous look-alikes and take a deep dive into a handful of common edible and medicinal fungi found in Massachusetts. Participants will learn about the beauty and mystery of the fungal kingdom, proper foraging etiquette and how to preserve and make the most of a successful harvest. The second portion of this workshop will be a log inoculation class, where each participant will create their own Shiitake log to take home and grow. Working as a team, we will drill holes in each log, fill them with Shiitake mycelium, and seal the holes with wax to prepare them for their colonization period. Instructional materials will be provided for continuing the growing process and will cover the next steps to ensure a successful harvest at home. Logs inoculated during class will be ready to fruit in the spring season. In the third segment of the workshop, Chef Thi will join you in the Powisset Kitchen to create an unforgettable mushroom culinary experience. On the menu: Mushroom Congee with Jammy egg and Fried Shallots, and Tomato Braised Mushroom Meatballs with Fresh Pasta. The Trustees mushroom programs are led by knowledgeable guides and focus on the ecology of mushrooms and their vital role in the ecosystem. Please note, we will forage mushrooms for educational purposes only and not for consuming. Join us as we discover the wonders of mushrooms and their natural habitats. Note: Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven, perhaps wet/muddy, terrain. Limited to 12.