A special indoor class, and cooking demonstration, with Ryan and Emily Bouchard, creators of The Mushroom Hunting Foundation. Anyone under 18 is required to have a parent or guardian sign for them. 

Fungi are an often-overlooked part of nature; many Rhode Islanders are surprised to learn just how many local wild mushroom species are not only safe, but incredibly delicious. Seeking them out is perhaps the best hobby on Earth, combining fascinating science, outdoor adventure, and truly amazing food experiences. A topic like this requires professional guidance! With their slideshow of amazing all-local photography, Ryan and Emily will explain the science and the safety rules of mushroom hunting, and then take a closer look at some spring species they consider "safe for beginners" to identify and cook with. It's astonishing to see the diverse colors and forms of fungi, and to learn about the crucial roles they play—whether edible or not—in the forests all around us. The flavors of edible wild mushrooms are even more astonishing...and you'll have the opportunity to sample some with your instructors at this special presentation.

This program is open to all, and we are asking for preregistration to ensure we have enough mushrooms on hand to share with all. Please register no later than August 9th, 2025. Contact reference@westerlylibrary.org or (401) 596-2877x306 with questions.

About the Instructors: 

Ryan T. Bouchard is the author and photographer of the influential calendar-book Gourmet Mushrooms of the Northeast 2019. Emily Bouchard also studies our local mushroom species (and wild plants as well), and invents new ways to make use of these exceptional ingredients; she created the groundbreaking wild plant instructional video series In the Weeds with Emily. The Mushroom Hunting Foundation was created by Ryan and Emily Bouchard as a team, and they have educated thousands of people about safely enjoying America's incredible wild foraging.