Mushroom hunting is a year-round activity for many Oregonians, with Black Morrels and Spring King Boletes currently in season.
But forest officials warn against venturing into areas hit by last year’s wildfires. Darren Cross is the McKenzie River District Ranger for the Willamette National Forest. He warned fungi foragers to note where closures are, and to abide by them.
“There’s also stump holes and other things that happen out in a fire area, that someone that’s not used to being in an area like that, might not be aware of, and it’s actually fairly dangerous," Cross told KLCC.
"So it’s easy to get stuck, or get focused on looking for mushrooms on the ground and not be looking at the dangerous tree or limb that’s right above you.”
Wild mushroom enthusiasts should bring a friend or two, and even wear protective gear if they think they’re in an area where tree cover is compromised. And of course, not to eat any mushroom they’re not 100 percent sure is edible.
Copyright 2021, KLCC.
