Save the Date for Fungal Discovery Day and the MMS Summer Picnic
This summer, the MMS will be holding two events on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Thomas Lake Park in Eagan, MN. The site is suitable for those with mobility issues. Both events are free and for members only, so watch for a formal registration link coming soon.
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Fungal Discovery Day
Programming will be offered for both families with children and adults. Family-friendly activities include a nature scavenger hunt, a mushroom identification table, reading mushroom books, mushroom tattoos, painting wooden mushrooms, and other mushroom-themed art.
Adult Programming
Aaron Berg will lead accessible forays on paved trails, where participants will look for mushrooms around the park. These sessions will cover the parts of a mushroom, the unique characteristics of each species found, and how to identify them. There is no cost, and participants are free to join or leave at any time. Each short foray will last 10 to 30 minutes, depending on what the group finds. After each walk, the group will return to the pavilion to discuss the findings in more detail.
3:00 PM – 7:00 PM: MMS Summer Picnic
(Food served starting at 4:00 PM)
Limited to 150 attendees
- This event is a chance to connect and socialize with other MMS members.
- The MMS will provide hot dogs (meat and vegetarian options), condiments, and beverages.
- Please bring your own water bottle or reusable cup,
- Bring something to share at this Potluck Picnic, such as chips, salads, fruit, or dessert.
- No wild-foraged mushroom dishes are allowed at this event.
- Alcoholic beverages are also not permitted in the park.
Mushroom Identification
The picnic will also include a mushroom identification component. Participants are welcome to bring a mushroom specimen they have found for identification assistance. Please bring any specimens back home with you. Do not leave them at the park.
Location and Directions
The Thomas Lake Park pavilion in Eagan is located just off Pilot Knob Road. The park entrance is halfway between Cliff Road and Diffley Road, so either exit from 35E will work. We have reserved the pavilion behind the main parking lot.