From school gymnasiums and science fairs to museum halls and the State Fair’s Horticulture Building, the MMS Education Committee brings the fascinating world of fungi to the public — one curious mind at a time.
The work of the Education Committee touches nearly every part of the Minnesota Mycological Society. Whether we’re helping someone ID their first mushroom at a table display, teaching members how to collect scientific samples for DNA sequencing, or leading a hands-on cultivation workshop, we’re creating meaningful connections through shared learning.
What We Do
The MMS Education Committee creates opportunities for both members and the general public to explore the science and joy of mycology. We do this by organizing events, offering workshops, and sharing our knowledge wherever people gather to learn — including:
Community Events
We regularly host educational tables and displays at events like:
- DaVinci Fest
- Forest Fair
- Bell Museum events
- Patagonia store pop-ups
- The Great Minnesota Get-Together (State Fair) — where we host our signature mushroom display in the Horticulture Building and present speakers on the Dirt Stage
Community Events
We regularly host educational tables and displays at events like:
- DaVinci Fest
- Forest Fair
- Bell Museum events
- Patagonia store pop-ups
- The Great Minnesota Get-Together (State Fair) — where we host our signature mushroom display in the Horticulture Building and present speakers on the Dirt Stage
Member Education
We help members grow their skills through:
- Mushroom ID meetings
- Assisting the Foray Committee with scientific forays
- Instruction on scientific collection methods (vouchering, iNaturalist, DNA sequencing)
- The MMS Passport Program
Workshops & Presentations
Our committee helps plan and implement educational programming both at MMS events and upon request from partner organizations, schools, and community groups. We also coordinate with the Webmaster to make recorded sessions available for later viewing when appropriate.
Committee Responsibilities
Together, we:
- Design and deliver educational programs and content
- Collaborate with other MMS committees to add education to events and activities
- Act as a resource for MMS members seeking help with mushroom identification, cultivation, or foraging
- Meet at least twice a year, or more frequently as needed
- Report our progress to the MMS Board and help guide future educational direction
- Work within an annual committee budget set by the Board
Interested in joining the Education Committee?
There’s no better way to learn more about mushrooms than alongside this committee.
Whether you’re an educator, a curious hobbyist, or a longtime member looking to give back, we welcome your involvement. Reach out to the Education Committee Chair.
Photo by Tommes Frites via Pexels, licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0