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How to Find Wild Mushrooms in Oregon

The northwestern region of the United States is rich in wild mushrooms. Particularly during the seasons of fall and spring, mushrooms seem to carpet the forest floors. In recent years, commercial mushroom harvesting has increased in the state of Oregon. Because of this increase, the state charges a fee to those who harvest mushrooms from federal land. However, those who collect mushrooms for private use can do so free of charge. Collecting wild mushrooms in Oregon is an enjoyable hobby for residents and tourists alike. Mushroom collectors will no doubt also enjoy the scenery of Oregon's forests as they hunt for mushrooms. Collecting mushrooms in Oregon can be easily enjoyed once you learn the best methods, locations and times to hunt.

Things You'll Need

Paper bag or other breathable container
Knife

Instructions

- 1
  Research the locations of federal lands where mushroom hunting is permitted. Gcoregonlive.com has a map of federal lands in Oregon. Mushroom hunting also can be done on private lands upon permission from the landowner.
- 2
  Hunt for mushrooms during the fall or spring, while the ground is warm and moist. Locate a spot of land that is covered with many trees because this area is most likely to have the greatest amount of mushrooms. Search the bases of the trees for any mushrooms. Both conifers and hardwood trees can have mushrooms growing at their bases.
- 3
  Pluck any mushrooms found directly out of the ground. This can be done by hand or with a knife. Drop the mushrooms into your container used for collecting.
- 4
  Wash the collected mushrooms in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Store them in a cool, well ventilated location until you are ready to use them.
- 5
  Identify each mushroom before eating them. Some wild mushrooms are very poisonous. Forestry-dev.org has an interactive page to help you accurately identify your mushrooms.

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