Frequently asked questions

 

What does membership entail and how do I become a member?

  • Starting in 2026, the NS Mycological Society is moving to a paid membership model.

  • Please be bear with us as we implement this new model. We are currently working out the details of how this will work and the benefits members will receive.

How do I get a mushroom identified?

There are two good ways to go about getting a mushroom ID:

  1. Post your picture(s) to the NS Mycological Society Facebook Group requesting an ID. Our Facebook group is very active and has many knowledgeable members. This is the faster method!

  2. Send your pictures to the NSMS email that can be found on our ‘Contact Us’ page. It may take a few days up to a few weeks to obtain an ID using this avenue as your pictures make their way to our expects, depending on who is available and when they check their emails!

Remember:

  • The best way to get a positive mushroom ID is in person, with good quality specimens.

  • For the best chance of an accurate ID from photos, include:

    • high quality photos of specimens in prime condition, showing different parts of the anatomy (cap, stalk down to the base, underside, cross-section, spore print), ideally of multiple specimens of different maturities,

    • info about the substrate the specimen was growing on and nearby trees.

  • Take any ID suggested to you online with a grain of salt, especially if you are unsure of the experience and expertise of the person giving the ID. Even experts sometimes get it wrong, and numerous species of mushroom are extremely difficult or even impossible to identify with 100% confidence without certain specific information, or even DNA analysis in some cases.

Are there any upcoming outings?

  • We are planning our 2026 fall foray for October.

  • Check the ‘Outings & Events > Other Groups’ page to discover other local groups that host events with fungal components, and the ‘Outings & Events > Calendar’ page to view events hosted by both the NS Mycological Society and other groups.

Where can I find info about a mushroom ID workshop or course?

  • Our main fall foray often includes some brief lectures about various topics in mushroom foraging and husbandry, guided foraging, and a group identification session of finds.

  • There are other organizations and individuals that may offer events, courses, or tours that are of interest, which are listed below. These are not affiliated with the NS Mycological Society. Check the ‘Outings & Events > Other Groups’, ‘Outings & Events > Calendar’ and ‘Resources > Online Courses & Guides’ pages for more info.