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MycoCulture: An Introduction to Wild Mushroom Foraging & Fungal Ecology

  • Center for Regenerative Agriculture at Jalama Canyon Ranch 3635 Jalama Road Lompoc, CA, 93436 United States (map)

Join us for a day of discovery in the hidden world of fungi.

Learn how fungal networks and soil life connect landscapes, support a healthy ecosystem, and help cultivate resilient food systems that nourish both people and place.

This one-day, immersive workshop invites land stewards, foragers, and curious community members to explore the fascinating ecology of fungi. You’ll build foundational knowledge of fungal life cycles, practice safe and ethical wild mushroom identification in the field, and discover how fungi quietly shape soil health, water movement, and biodiversity.


Through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on field exploration, participants will:

  • Learn the core principles of fungal ecology and ecosystem dynamics

  • Practice safe, responsible techniques for identifying and harvesting wild mushrooms

  • Understand how fungi support soil health, water dynamics, and biodiversity

  • Explore mushrooms through hands-on observation

  • Apply fungal knowledge to real-world land stewardship contexts

  • Leave with tools and resources for continued learning and stewardship

Beyond technical skills and knowledge, this workshop connects you to a broader movement of land stewards and wild foragers dedicated to strengthening the soil beneath our feet.

LEAD FACILITATORS

Matt Nevitt | Founder & Director, Wild Foragers

Matthew Nevitt, founder of Wild Foragers, grew up foraging in the great forests of the Pacific Northwest. From the mountains to the oceans, to the rivers and valleys, he learned to identify and forage for a wide array of wild foods by spending time in the wilderness, studying the ethnography of the indigenous people and from the traditions passed down to him through the generations. Born out of a love for nature and all of the wild food it brings, Wild Foragers gathers fresh, unique and gourmet wild ingredients including mushrooms, berries, greens, roots, and spices and distributes them to world-renowned chefs and home kitchens alike. It gives Matt great joy that people are able to experience the amazing flavors, smells, and health benefits of the wild foods we have been gathering and enjoying for generations.

Jesse Smith | White Buffalo Land Trust

Jesse is the Director of Land Stewardship and is guiding the development of Jalama Canyon Ranch as well as working with local and global leaders to broaden and deepen the positive impact of regenerative agriculture on our soil, our health, and our communities. His passion and expertise in agricultural system design and community engagement are a cornerstone of our strategy to achieve a systemic shift towards a regenerative food economy and ecology.


Who Should Attend

  • Foragers (beginner to intermediate)

  • Land stewards & landowners

  • Students & educators

  • Chefs & local food advocates

  • Anyone curious about fungi and connecting with local landscapes

When & Where

Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
Time:
9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Location: The Center for Regenerative Agriculture at Jalama Canyon Ranch (directions provided prior to the event)

Cost & What’s Included

$275 USD
Includes instruction, course materials, beverages, snacks, and a farm-to-table lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients.

FOR INQUIRIES & QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR PROGRAMS TEAM AT PROGRAMS@WHITEBUFFALOLANDTRUST.ORG

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November 15

Fall Field Day at Jalama Canyon Ranch

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March 11

Holistic Management Intensive - March 2026