The 18th Annual BAMS / Point Reyes National Seashore Fungus Fair

During the 18th Annual Fungus Fair, wild mushrooms collected in the park will be on display on the south porch of the Bear Valley Visitor Center with several mushroom-related exhibits inside the visitor center. We will also have presentations in the auditorium throughout the day. Roving Mushroom Ambassadors will be available to answer your questions, both indoors and out. Bring mushrooms you've found and are curious about.

Speakers:

11:00 AM: Try it and See: The Story Behind the Discovery of Mushroom Dyes

This beautiful film showcases the early work of two well known Mendocino mycologists, the pioneering mushroom dyer Mirium Rice, and her watercolor artist partner, Dorothy Beebee, as they explore, document, illustrate and publish groundbreaking information on using mushrooms for dying wool and silk. Produced by Dorothy's children Myra and Martin BeeBee. Premiered at the 2024 Mendocino Mushroom Festival.

12:30 PM: Zen and the Art of Mushroom Hunting

A lighthearted look at the beauty and wonder of the fungi that surrounds us, illustrated with spectacular photos and peppered with first hand stories. Expect to be amazed and amused!

Speaker: Debbie Viess

2:00 PM: Fungi through Time

Cat will present tantalizing vignettes about the role of fungi in historically important moments. Was Roman Emperor Claudius really taken down by a death cap mushroom? How did 17th century people first start growing button mushrooms in the catacombs under Paris? Was a fungal contaminant really to blame for the Salem Witch Trials? Find out all this and more in this fun, photo-filled lecture

Speaker: Cat Adams