08/04/2026
This past weekend, the Northeast Mycological Federation (NEMF) held its annual foray at Penn State Mont Alto. The event brought together mycologists, scientists, and nature enthusiasts from across the Northeast for three days of guided fungus surveys, lectures, workshops, and scientific research.
On Friday, Ashley Laman, representing both NEMF and the Happel's Meadow Wetland Preserve Advisory Committee, led a group of 44 participants through Happel's Meadow to photograph, document, and collect fungi for research.
The survey was incredibly productive! Using iNaturalist, participants recorded 275 observations representing 125 suspected species of fungi, lichens, and slime molds. Many of the collected specimens will be DNA sequenced to confirm their identities, helping expand our understanding of the Preserve's remarkable biodiversity.
The group included lichenologists, professional mycologists, field researchers, foresters, geologists, mycological club presidents, representatives of the Northeast Rare Fungi Challenge, the NEMF Vice President, the President of the Pennsylvania Association of Environmental Educators, and many dedicated professionals and community naturalists.
We're honored that Happel's Meadow continues to be recognized as an important place for biodiversity research and conservation. Every survey helps us learn more about the incredible diversity of life that calls this special wetland home.
