Mushroom Walks with David Shubin

Slow down, look closely, and discover the hidden world beneath your feet.

Join David Shubin of Fish Water Farms for a leisurely mushroom walk exploring the fascinating world of fungi.

The rainy season is one of the best times to explore. As moisture returns to the soil, mushrooms seemingly appear overnight—in lawns, gardens, woodlands, mulch, beneath trees, and sometimes in the most unexpected places.

But the mushrooms we see are only a tiny part of the story.

Most fungi never produce the familiar mushrooms we recognize, and much of their activity happens quietly underground. Fungi help break down organic matter, cycle nutrients, build soil, interact with plant roots, and support the larger ecosystem. For organic gardeners in particular, understanding fungi can completely change the way you think about soil and plant health.

During our walk, David will help you examine the mushrooms and other fungi we encounter while discussing topics such as:

• How mushrooms and fungi actually live and grow

• The difference between a mushroom and the fungus that produces it

• Mycelium and the enormous fungal networks hidden in soil and wood

• How fungi decompose leaves, wood, and other organic matter

• Relationships between fungi and the roots of trees and other plants

• Beneficial fungi in organic gardens

• Common fungal problems gardeners encounter

• Interesting mushrooms found in our local landscapes

• How weather, moisture, soil, mulch, and seasons influence fungal activity

Rainy days are especially exciting, but fungi are worth exploring year-round. Fall, winter, and spring tend to offer the greatest mushroom activity, while summertime provides an opportunity to discover the less obvious ways fungi remain active in our gardens and landscapes.

These are intentionally slow walks. There is no need to cover a lot of ground. The goal is to stop, look closely, ask questions, turn over a leaf or two, and begin seeing an entire part of the ecosystem that is very easy to overlook.

Mushroom Walks with Fish Water Farms

Available for individuals, families, garden groups, private properties, and small groups.

These walks are educational and focused on fungi, ecology, gardening, and observation. They are not intended to certify wild mushrooms as safe for consumption.