About

Who we are

Formed in 1973, The Ohio Mushroom Society has widespread membership mainly in Ohio, but also in several surrounding states. Our goal is to increase our members’ appreciation and knowledge of wild mushrooms in an informal, enjoyable manner. Those who wish may go on to acquire an extensive background in mycology, the scientific study of fungi. Our membership ranges from the beginning collector to the professional mycologist and includes several mycophagists (mushroom eaters), photographers, artists, toxicologists, and nature enthusiasts. Anyone with an interest in mushrooms is encouraged to join.

What we do

The purpose of the Ohio Mushroom Society is to promote the understanding and enjoyment of mushrooms and other “higher fungi”. We accomplish this in a variety of ways including, but not limited to the following:

• We publish a bimonthly newsletter called “The Mushroom Log” which contains articles about mushrooms as well as news of upcoming mushroom related events both in Ohio and elsewhere.
• We maintain this website, which contains information about the club, links to the newsletter and links to other mushroom-related sites.
• We put together a program each year which includes mini forays throughout the spring, summer, and fall, a two-day summer foray, a fall foray, and an annual banquet to close out the season.
• We are affiliated with the North American Mycological Association (NAMA), a national organization of amateur mycologists.
• We promote the serious study of mushrooms by offering, at our forays, workshops on mushroom collection and identification.
• We attempt to answer questions about mushrooms from members. Questions may be directed to one of the volunteers whose listed or to OMS. Email questions will be referred to the most knowledgeable source.