I depend on my field guides for most of my nature pursuits. I have only recently begun to establish relationships with some of the authors.
Publishing a book is a lengthy process. Knowledge is constantly changing. When I read that a mushroom is non-edible, I don’t eat it. I’m beginning to understand that “non-edible” may simply mean boring, flavorless, chewy, mucilaginous, or bitter. “Toxic” or “poisonous” may mean that a mushroom causes purging or it may mean fatal.
There’s a big difference between a mushroom that may cause vomiting, flatulence, or diarrhea and a mushroom that may cause cardiac arrest or renal failure.
So, what can I do to get accurate information?
Joining COMA has provided me with a source of experienced mycologists. That membership lead to my attendance at forays and classes, which invite authors and experts to address attendees.
Last year, I threw out lobster mushrooms, because when I checked my Audubon guide,I read that if they parasitize poisonous fungi, they are toxic. Since the publication of that field guide, Gary Lincoff has learned that is not true. This year, I enjoyed all the lobster mushrooms I found.
I don’t carry extra weight when I hike. If I have to load up, I carry water and leave the field guides at home. I’ve become a more careful observer, take better photographs and draw, rather than try to find words, for the shapes I see.
I do take the time to identify what I gather. If I cannot make a 100 percent identification, I test for edibility.
There is simply no substitute for reliable experts. One of the best decisions I ever made was to join COMA. The effort I put into being an active member is well worth the knowledge gained.