WORKSHOP – Fungus Identification & Survey

Fungus Identification and Survey Training Day

The fungi of the Otways Forests fungi are little known. Only very scant and mostly anecdotal records exist. Fungi are a vital part of these forests, underpinning their health and resilience.

Fungi also play a critical role in the recovery of forest ecosystems following fire – stabilising soils, filtering water, nourishing plants and animals and more.

The aim of the training day is to equip participants with the basic skills and protocols for surveying fungi in the field. It will include an overview of the major groups of fungi and the features necessary for field identification; the role of fungi in ecosystems particularly following fire; and techniques for surveying fungi and recording data (written records, photographs and specimens).

Very few forests have been surveyed for fungi following fire and data collected from this survey day will provide a vital baseline for understanding their role in local ecosystems.

The day begins with a two-hour indoor session followed by a four hour field trip to identify and survey fungi. It is suitable for locals, students, conservationists and anyone interested in surveying fungi and understanding their relationship with fire.

This workshop is sponsored by the Southern Otway Landcare Network as part of its post fire recovery work at Wye River.