Mushrooms in Southeast Missouri: Foraging with Leigh Ludolph from 573 Foraging and Hiking

“There’s an unparalleled sense of connection when you’re out in the wild, identifying species that have existed long before us,” Ludolph shares as she carefully inspects the base of a decomposing hardwood tree. Her experienced eye scans for the coveted turkey tail mushroom—known not only for its vibrant array of colors but also its potential health benefits related to cancer research. “Look for small pores, white edges, and variations in texture,” she advises, drawing attention to the importance of accurate identification in mushroom foraging, where edibility and benefits can significantly differ even within the same family.

Foraging, unlike mere hiking, requires a sharpened gaze and a ceaseless curiosity. As Ludolph often reiterates, “When you’re foraging, you leave the trail. Get up close, touch, feel, smell. That’s how you learn,” she says. This immersive nature of foraging not only allows for a deeper understanding of each find but also fosters a community of shared knowledge and experience. The initiative has gained traction, leading to rapid growth and active engagement from seasoned and novice foragers alike, eager to contribute to and benefit from this wealth of information.

While turkey tail mushrooms capture much attention, it’s not just about the fungi for Ludolph. She explores the intriguing dichotomy of native and invasive species, represented vividly by the Wild Rose. Despite its invasive reputation, the plant’s rosehips—a firm favorite in teas and desserts due to their high Vitamin C content—are a testament to the balancing act present in nature. “Foraging isn’t just about taking from the land; it’s about managing it responsibly,” she notes. Encouraging foragers to harvest rosehips serves a dual purpose: culinary and ecological preservation.

Amidst the understory, patches of the Late Autumn Boneset blossom, offering yet another glimpse into nature’s bounty. Historically utilized by Native Americans for bone healing, this wild herb thrives in partly sunny areas and is considered beneficial for pollinators like bees and butterflies. “It’s about understanding the role each plant and mushroom plays in the ecosystem,” Ludolph emphasizes, illustrating that foraging transcends gathering to encompass stewardship of the environment.

Ludolph’s quest is not without challenges. Just as in fishing or hunting, foraging success depends on various factors, including weather conditions and regional availability. “You might not find what you set out for, but you’ll always learn something new,” she affirms. This humility and flexibility are integral to the foraging ethos, where each expedition is as much about embracing uncertainty as celebrating discovery.

The key to a fruitful foraging expedition is preparation and knowledge. Ludolph comes equipped with robust hiking boots, protective clothing, and a bucket with holes, allowing spores to disperse and encourage future growth—a nod to sustainable practices. The importance of learning through multiple sources, or the ‘rule of threes,’ is a staple in her toolbox, ensuring correct identification across various regions and seasons.

Beyond identifying and gathering, Ludolph delves into the scientific intrigue surrounding mushrooms like the Reishi and Chaga, which are renowned for their potential health benefits related to energy and cognitive enhancements. “This one’s texture and shape make it a member of the Reishi family, but further research and spore prints are needed for verification,” she remarks on a recent find. This methodical approach underpins the scientific pursuit of making nature’s secrets accessible to all.

Yet, at its heart, foraging is an invitation to reconnect—with the environment, with community, and with oneself. In a world that often feels polarized, venturing into the woods offers a powerful reminder of the simple, grounding joy found in nature. Ludolph poignantly captures this sentiment: “When you’re out here, differences fade away. It’s just you, the forest, and the incredible artworks of nature.”

The idea of mushrooms as not just edible entities but as clues to the forest’s health and vitality pervades Ludolph’s philosophy. By engaging with variances in texture, color, and growth patterns, she reconstructs the broader environmental narrative, providing insights into factors like seasonal shifts and soil composition.

The journey also underscores a significant cultural moment: the growing interest in foraging amid modern life’s bustle. The Borderland’s nature initiatives, sparked by an unmet community need, now bring together a diverse group of individuals united by a shared appreciation for the natural world. Participants come with different backgrounds and expertise, each contributing to a collective understanding that transcends personal and geographical boundaries.

Her closing thoughts reflect a hope, not just for bountiful harvests, but for a sustainable relationship with the environment. “I see each outing as an opportunity to deepen my connection with nature and share that journey with others,” she says. It’s an open invitation for viewers and fellow enthusiasts to engage, explore, and contribute to this living tapestry where education, passion, and preservation coalesce.