Forest and Fungi Ecology Walk + Q&A with Luke Sarrantino

Discover the fascinating world of Hudson Valley fungi and their role in local ecosystems, plus a Q&A on growing mushrooms at home.

Join us at Taconic Ridge Farm for an exploration into the unique ecology of the Hudson Valley. With a focus on Fungi, we'll pull back the curtain and take a closer look at the fascinating organisms we discover and the intricate relationships they form to support the ecosystems we live in.

Bring all your questions and stay for a short Q&A/discussion at the end and learn how to cultivate mushrooms right in your backyard.

Meet the Instructor: Luke Sarrantino, Mycophilic

Luke Sarrantonio grew up in Rosendale, New York and spent much of his childhood exploring the local landscape and ecological features, but it wasn’t until he attended college at SUNY ESF (College of Environmental Science and Forestry) that he truly discovered Fungi. He has had a dynamic career in Mycology, developing ecology and cultivation-based educational programs, organizing an annual mushroom and arts festival (For the Love of Fungi), community projects, and a line of functional mushroom products (under the name Mycophilic) for the past 13+ years. His major goal is to be an accessible resource for people who want to learn more about this fascinating group of life. His most recent projects include an outdoor mushroom farm and teaching space with his partner Kaya, at their farm in Accord, NY (Eat Flowers Farm), and a community project called Eat More Mushrooms. He also offers mentorships and currently serves as co-president of the Mid Hudson Mycological Association. More at Mycophilic.net

Taconic Ridge Farm is a member of TheWorkshopExperience.org, a group of friends and neighbors who produce exceptional experiential learning through open gardens and workshops on a wide variety of topics in the Roeliff Jansen region, where the Hudson Valley and Berkshires meet.