top of page
Graphic Shapes

Module 12
Becoming a Citizen Scientist

Homework

Now that you have made it this far, you probably have a good idea of what interests you in the world of fungi. No one can know it all, so it is good to specialize and collaborate with other people who compliment you. 

​

Create a list of goals you want to accomplish in the next few months and the next 5 years that have to do with this knowledge. Do you want to dive deeper? Do you feel good with what you have learned so far and are ready to stop? Both answers are ok, but it is good to know what you want. If you want to dive deeper what areas do you want to study?

​

  • Myxomycetes

  • DNA sequencing

  • Cultivating Mushrooms

  • Contributing to scientific studies

  • Learning how to create mushroom products

  • Conducting research or experiments 

  • History if Mycology

  • Taxonomic name changes

 

There are groups dedicated to all of these areas and more that you can join to compliment your studies. Use your mentors to get connected to new groups and start asking questions!

 

 Finally, if you find a specimen, take a photo and upload it to iNaturalist, and then share a link with your study group.

Foray

Plan a foray with your group. You can used Doodle to help quickly vote on the schedule that works for everyone.

 

1) Decide on a place and time to go.

2) Meet up and caravan to the location or meet at the location.

3) Follow all WVMS Foray Safety protocols and take the Safety Class if you have not done so. 

4) Make sure you have a full tank of gas. Adhere to social distancing rules as per Oregon State Health Department 

5) Bring: Chemicals, basket, field id cards, pen, small compartmentalized container, wax bags, your own lunch (no sharing), hand lens, or minimum 10x eye loupe, 6" scale in metric and English, compass/GPS, rain gear, first aid kit, watch and whistle.

6) Limit your forays to one hour.

 

Afterwards, go back to our own places to ID alone. Post-pandemic or when safe, plan on meeting together to discuss finds.

​

Some suggested foray locations are: local cemeteries, forested parks, state and county parks.

Group Discussion

During the pandemic we suggest using Google Meets or Zoom to have discussions. Find a day/time that works for everyone to discuss your finds. These discussions are an important part of the learning process. If your group is having issues, please reach out and invite a Mentor to your discussion and we will help point you in the right direction. 

​

After the pandemic or when it is safe, we highly suggest getting together for a group discussion and hands on learning event. Plan on a discussion that will last about 2-3 hours. 

Resources

  • FunDis

  • NAMA

  • ​

bottom of page