This course will provide a thorough introduction to edible mushrooms and the role fungi plays in the northern Rockies ecosystem. You will need no previous education in mycology to take this course, but since most fungi have no common names, familiarity with the concept of genus and species names will improve your appreciation of the material. Students will gain familiarity with the use of a botanical key in identifying fungi, and learn the ecology and uses of edible mushrooms and how to discern between edible and poisonous mushrooms in the field. Since spring and fall species are quite different, be sure to sign up for our Summer Mushroom course to get a complete mushroom experience.