A Passionate Pair: Multi State Fungi Foragers
Meet Keaton and Melani, a couple deeply passionate about fungi and foraging. Their shared love for nature and exploration has led them on countless adventures through the lush forests around the country. As fungi enthusiasts, they find immense joy in discovering various mushrooms, learning about their unique characteristics, and understanding their roles in the ecosystem.
For Melani and Keaton, foraging is more than a hobby; it's a way to connect with nature, relieve stress, and stay active. The tranquility of the forest offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. "Walking through the forest, breathing in the fresh air, and hearing the sounds of nature instantly calms our minds," Keaton explains. “Its all about the connection to nature”.
Their foraging excursions provide a healthy dose of exercise. Navigating through dense woods, climbing over fallen logs, and bending down to examine mushrooms all contribute to the experience. “Its a spiritual practice at this point. When you first start its a hobby, soon it becomes a part of you, its the essence of who we are” Keaton says with a smile.
Foraging offers Keaton and Melani a sense of freedom that lets their inner Childs curiosity run wild. Each trip is an opportunity to learn about the diverse organisms that inhabit the forest. They meticulously identify different mushroom species, study their growth patterns, and observe how seasonal changes affect the forest's flora and fauna. "It's like a never-ending game of discovery," Keaton says. "The forest is always changing, and there's always something new to learn for the curious mind.”
The couple's foraging trips also yield delicious rewards. Keaton and Melanie often return home with baskets full of edible mushrooms and wild plants. They incorporate these fresh, foraged ingredients into their meals, enjoying the unique flavors and nutritional benefits of nature's bounty. "There's something incredibly satisfying about preparing a meal with food you've gathered yourself," Keaton remarks. "It deepens our appreciation for the sustenance the forest provides.”
When asked about their favorite finds, Keaton enthusiastically mentions morels, reishi, chanterelles, hedgehogs, chicken of the woods, hen of the woods and black trumpets. One of their most exciting discoveries was finding a chicken of the woods mushroom just feet away from a hen of the woods. "The flushes were amazing and something we don't see often growing so close together," Keaton recalls.
The couple also has taken several seasonal trips through the midwest. They follow the spring Morel season starting as south as Oklahoma. The following the Morel flush over the course if weeks north to the northern Wisconsin woods. For Keaton and Melani, foraging has also strengthened their relationship. "We can look at foraging as a consistent bond we share. It instills a sense of freedom in both of us," Keaton says.
The couple encourages everyone to get out and connect with their local flora and fauna. Forage responsibly, and take the opportunity to leave the woods cleaner than when you arrived. For them, garbage collection is a must. “Its being a good steward to the forest and setting a example if anyone was to see.” Keaton emphasizes.
So grab a basket, head to your nearest forest, and start your own journey of discovery and connection with nature. Happy foraging!