Introduction to Mycology

Join George Caughey and John Benjamin, the leaders of the Harris Center’s Morel Quandary Mushroom Club, for a fascinating introduction to the science of mycology and natural history behind mushroom hunting. Learn about the role these unique organisms play in our environment, and develop skills and tools for identifying common mushroom families. This short course will include a mixture of classroom and field experiences.

This Environmental Studies Institute (ESI) course will meet on Tuesdays, September 23 & 30 and October 7 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Harris Center and local field sites. 

About John
John Benjamin is a Harris Center teacher-naturalist. He holds a BA in Biology and an MS in Environmental Studies, and has taught in settings ranging from the Woodland Park Zoo to public schools. John grew up in Boulder, Colorado, where he spent his childhood exploring the outdoors in search of all things crawling. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the New England woods, practicing photography, and playing the mandolin.


About George
George Caughey is a retired physician, molecular biologist, and amateur mycologist who never regrets a walk in the woods. He is on the board of the Monadnock Mushroom Club, where he focuses on toxicology, organizing forays, and blogging species lists. He has led mushroom walks in New Hampshire and California, given presentations on mushroom identification and ecology for non-profit and school groups, participated in BioBlitzes, and published articles on mushroom poisoning and the history of foraging. He is a major contributor and identifier to iNaturalist, and has rounded out his experience with North American fungi as a myco-tourist in Italy, England, and Sweden.