Foray-and-Herbaria

by Michael Burzynski & Chris Deduke

What fungi do we collect, and where do they end up? I am sure for many of you, the mushrooms you pick end up in a cast-iron skillet with butter, however, not all fungi are lucky enough to have such a fate! Instead many fungi and lichen end up in a herbarium, where they remain as biological record. The collection of fungal specimens is integral to documenting species diversity and distribution, and how these factors change over time. Since 2003, Foray Newfoundland and Labrador has been hosting foray events where fungal specimens are collected, identified, admired, dried, labelled, and packaged up to be stored in a herbarium. In this double feature evening, we will discuss the the art of collecting and preserving fungal specimens!

Michael Burzynski is well known across the island of Newfoundland for his expertise and involvement in the mushroom community and the Foray Newfoundland and Labrador team! Michael is a botanist and naturalist who calls the West Coast home. Michael has worked for Parks Canada for over 30 years and is well know for his exceptional knowledge in Newfoundland and Labrador fungi, plants, and geology.

Dr. Chris Deduke is an independent Contractor for the Research Associate of Botany at the Canadian Museum of Nature. He ample experience in curation of biological samples and has worked at the Canadian Museum of Nature since 2017. He has also worked for the Canadian Wildlife Services with Environment and Climate Change Canada where he compiled a crustose lichen list nation-wide. Chris completed his Ph.D. at the University of Manitoba in Biological Sciences. Not to mention he is one of our own longest standing board members and has taken on the role as Database Team Leader since 2013!

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