Natural History Wanderings

Fall rains will soon bring a variety of edible fungi to fruition. Many of our visitors wonder why it is illegal to harvest mushrooms in the parks. The problem with harvesting in a World Heritage Site is that it is impossible to do so without destroying sensitive habitat. A quest for consumable fungi, most of which are found off-trail, also can compact the soil, which can interfere with the nutrient absorption of plant roots. Visitors are encouraged to stay on park trails for the same reason.

Please, if you spy a fungal beauty while hiking our trails, leave it be. Take a picture! Allow such treasures to be enjoyed by other future visitors. #fungifriday