Join us for an introductory lecture for beginners about The Fifth Kingdom - The Fungi Kingdom. We will cover the history of Fungi on Earth; basic vocabulary terms and the fungal kingdom placement in the ecosystem ; relationship of fungi and trees, plants; life cycle of mushroom; anatomy of mushroom; classification of fungi; mushroom hunting safety and ethics; 5 plus 5 mushrooms to know (edible and non edible ones). Plus we will talk about including mushrooms in veggie garden and also how to use (and reuse) growing kits. Fungi can be food, a decomposer of debris and also a healing agent. Free and open to the public, bring along a friend. Registration is requested but walk-ins are very welcome.

Introducing our presenter, Jana Harris: " I am local to the North Shore of Massachusetts but grew up in Europe. As a child, I used to forage for mushrooms with my aunt in the Czech Republic and I have rediscovered the love of all things Fungi here in New England. I am one of the Admins for the Boston Mycological Club organization supporting and promoting the development of Mycology in Massachusetts and beyond. I am also certified in Wild Mushroom Food Safety."

You can find Jana online at:https://www.facebook.com/EssexForays