Foraging and consumer awareness are essential, and there are always risks associated with consuming wild mushrooms. Classes for anyone interested in being certified to sell wild-harvested mushrooms within the state of Iowa see Wild-harvested Mushrooms Certification.
Participants in this virtual workshop offered in 2020 were introduced to proper identification traits, foraging safety, distinguishing between edible and non-edible varieties, and best harvesting practices, including avoiding any potential post-harvest contamination.
If you want to learn more about mushrooms common in IA, including a calendar of historical occurrence, role in nature, and known toxicity, see the following resources:
- Safe Mushroom Foraging Field Guide https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/1583
- Interactive mushroom calendar visit the Mushroom Foraging in Iowa page
- Webinar Recordings
- Part 1 Safe Mushroom Foraging Part I: Common Spring Mushrooms in Iowa
- Part 2 Safe Mushroom Foraging Part II: Common Fall Mushrooms in Iowa
- Morels, False Morels, and Other Wild Mushrooms
- Wild Mushrooms Certification – Required to legally sell wild-harvested mushrooms within the state of Iowa
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For common yard and garden-related questions, see Mushroom Questions Answered
Safe mushroom foraging field guide (printed and free pdf file)
Videos and web Mushrooms calendar available