Fungi Foraging

Mushrooms are magic – but be careful what you pick!

The fungi season is almost here – but experts warn that you need to know your onions before going out foraging for mushrooms.

Scores of species will be sprouting forth over the autumn in Northumberland, but there’s no simple way of telling the tasty ones from those which could be dangerous.

Now the Forestry Commission has teamed up with leading experts to stage two public forages on 16 September in Kielder Water & Forest Park and two longer workshops at Kielder Castle on 29 and 30 September.

"Fungi are vital to the forest eco-system, so if you do pick them do so sparingly," said Gordon Beakes, from Newcastle University, who has studied the subject for 30 years. "The key thing is to be cautious. Some gourmet species look very similar to lethal specimens like the Death Cap. The UK has over 4,000 different species so it can be bewildering. And just because a fungus is brightly coloured doesn’t necessarily mean its poisonous.  Meanwhile the pure white Destroying Angel lives up to its name. The only way to identify them is to arm yourself with knowledge."

Fungi walks on 16 September meet at Kielder Castle at 10.30am and 2pm and cost £6 (£5 concessions/£16 family of four). 

The longer workshops (29/30 Sept) cost £25, including light lunch. Suitable for beginners and more advanced foragers alike, you will be able to sort through specimens and learn to how recognise their key features.

Booking is essential for these popular events, call 01434 250209 for details.