This is a guided tour for those who are interested to know more about fall mushrooms and nature in Ottawa Valley. We plan to go to the Mayo area, Quebec. We’ll visit the area, which is known as good for mushroom harvest, including many various species. At this time, we expect to find a diversity of Oyster Mushrooms, some boletes, perhaps, some honey mushrooms, some milk caps, and russula species. We’ll meet at 9:00 on Sunday, September 25, near St. Malachy Catholic Church, Mayou, QC, and then follow together to the place of our excursion in the private area owned by John MacDonnell, where John kindly invited us to explore mushrooms that can be found along the trails on his property. The end of September is a time when still there are many edible mushrooms and also this is a time of beautiful fall colors. First, we’ll walk to several corners of the property exploring edible and poisonous mushrooms and talking about nature surprises. And later we’ll explore also trails in the property where you can observe from the top of Lac Blanche and even see the Mont-Tremblant.
We’ll find out how to differentiate edible mushrooms from other similar species, some of which can be poisonous. We’ll look also if there are some edible plants in the forest. We’ll explore the environment by observing species by sign and by specific vocalization. We’ll see also how different animal species, prepare for the long winter.
How to dress?
Please, be prepared for the day of late September; so take care of clothes and shoes that are most comfortable for moving on narrow paths, through ravines and inconveniences.
What else might be needed?
You will need water and a light snack. Do not forget small baskets and knives for picking mushrooms. Take personal protection against insects and sunscreen.