October Mushroom Workshop with Bob Bowles

INFORMATION

HE IS BACK FOR ANOTHER ROUND IN OCTOBER!

Join Bob Bowles for a unique and immersive mushroom workshop celebrating the fascinating world of fungi, with a focus on October mushrooms. We loved having him here so much for the September offering that we've brought him back — and because October brings a completely different cast of mushrooms, this is a whole new workshop, not a repeat.

Enjoy a gentle guided hike through the forest as you discover the diverse mushrooms that emerge in the fall, learning how to identify and appreciate them in their natural habitat.

Following the hike, we'll gather outdoors for a healthy field lunch and discussion circle — staying out in the forest rather than heading back inside. Come dressed for the weather and whatever the day brings. Topics will include mushroom identification, ecology, their vital role in forest ecosystems, and many other intriguing aspects of the fungal kingdom. There will also be plenty of opportunities to ask questions and share observations from the hike.

Whether you're new to mushrooming or looking to deepen your knowledge, this hands-on experience offers something for everyone, while fostering a greater appreciation for these remarkable organisms.

Workshop Details

Date: Wednesday, October 14th, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 2:30pm
Includes: Immersive mushroom hike, healthy field lunch, and discussion circle
Please bring: Sturdy footwear and layers — we're outdoors for large part of day, rain or shine.
Cost: $150 per person (includes field lunch and booklet)

*Limited to 15 people.

About Bob Bowles

Bob Bowles is an award-winning writer, artist, photographer, and naturalist. He is the founder and coordinator of the Ontario Master Naturalist Certificate Program at Lakehead University and has dedicated decades to studying and sharing Ontario’s natural heritage.

Now in his 80s and still as passionate as ever, Bob has spent years investigating species occurrences and conducting biological inventories for the Ministry of Natural Resources and throughout Ontario, including extensive work in Copeland Forest. He continues his field studies to this day, bringing a lifetime of knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to every workshop.