Being in the MMS Passport Program

I joined the MMS Passport Program almost as soon as I joined MMS. It was a way to get involved while building identification skills and documenting my finds in a thoughtful, hands-on way. What appealed to me most was the chance to slow down and focus on one mushroom at a time. That structure made learning feel approachable and gave me a reason to dig in, ask questions, and keep going.

Being Part of a Community

As I worked through the program, my interactions with Authenticators and other members became one of the most valuable parts of the MMS Passport Program experience. Whether in person, virtually, or over email, each review or meet-up felt like a conversation rather than a test. The Authenticators were highly skilled and generous with their knowledge, and the experience consistently felt supportive. Even the presentation component, which initially felt intimidating, became a confidence builder because everyone was so welcoming and encouraging. The program meets members where they are and gives them space to grow at their own pace.

Over time, the MMS Passport Program helped me see mushrooms differently and feel more connected to MMS as a whole. This summer, I found a Porphyrellus species and immediately recognized it as unusual, which led me to work with the Funga Scientific Committee to submit it for DNA sequencing. In the program, I learned to notice the small details that matter, and it gave me the confidence to take the next step and get involved. 

Get Involved to Reap the Benefits

If you are new to MMS or unsure how to get started, the MMS Passport Program is a great place to begin. You can start small, move at your own pace, and build skills and confidence over time. Whether your goal is to learn identification, meet other members, or feel more connected, the program offers a welcoming way to grow, no matter where you are starting.

Article author, Erica Tava Johnson, receives her level 2 MMS Passport Program award at our 2025 annual meeting.