Since I’ve become interested in foraging for mushrooms, I’ve also become a lot more tuned into forests-where they’re located, what trees they contain, how damp they are. As well, I’ve started to take the time to check out forests when I see them.

Tomorrow, we are going up to the Kawarthas for a dinner with the family on Tuffy P’s side. I know one interesting section of forest not far from there because there is a little trout stream running through it and I’ve chased trout in that stream. There is another tract of forest though, one with a hiking trail through it, that I’ve passed on the road a number of times, which I’ve never stopped to look at.

I’m hoping to be able to sneak away with the dogs for a couple hours to check it out. With a little luck, I might find the first of the summer mushrooms. What I’m really looking for though is potential. Is this going to be a good spot for Hypomyces lactifluorum (known as the lobster mushroom)? Should I come back to look for chanterelles or hedgehogs? What’s the forest composition? What kinds of boletes will fruit there?

If I do get a chance to check out that forest in the morning, it will be an intelligence gathering mission. Finding a few tasty edibles will be a bonus. I’ll keep you posted.