MUSHROOM HUNTING CHECKLIST

Mushroom hunting is generally a fun day trip! But we all know that it is not all that difficult to get turned around and lost in the woods. PLEASE be prepared with the following items, and ask yourself: “Could I survive a night in the woods with the gear that I am carrying?” Thank you!

CLOTHES: EITHER ON YOUR BODY OR IN YOUR BACKPACK:

__ Synthetic (Polyester, nylon, fleece), wool, or silk layers Please, NO COTTON or JEANS

__ Rain jacket with hood __ Rain pants

__ Gaiters to keep duff out of your boots?

__ Sturdy, moisture proof boots (no street shoes, tennis shoes or sandals) __ Warm hat

__ Sun hat/Rain hat __ Mittens or Gloves __ Watch

__ One item of clothing that is brightly colored (bright yellow or orange is highly visible)

ESSENTIAL SAFETY ITEMS:

__ Good topographic map of the area

__ Compass (Suunto M-2D Locator $20; Suunto M-3D Leader $29.95; Silva Ranger CL $55)

__ Whistle

__ Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries __ Extra Clothing

__ High Energy Snacks (trail mix, dried fruit, power bars, etc.) __ Plenty of Water

__ Sunglasses __ First Aid Kit

__ Space Blanket or 2 large heavy duty trash bags __ Extra clothes

__ Mirror or signaling device __ Knife

__ Waterproof matches or lighter __ Fire starter or candle

__ Notepaper and pencil

IN YOUR FLAT-BOTTOMED BASKET

__ Knife, brightly marked

__ Brush for cleaning mushrooms prior to putting them in your basket __ Waxed paper bags?

__ Brown paper bags

OTHER GEAR TO INCLUDE FOR A FIRST-RATE MUSHROOM HUNT:

__ Permit if needed ** __ Lunch

__ Water

__ Trowel and toilet paper (and a bag to pack out your t.p.)? __ Sunscreen

__ Insect repellent

__ Field guides and key __ Hand lens (10-15x)

__ Containers for small specimens? __ Mushroom notebook & pencil? __ Camera

__ Flagging tape

__ FRS walkie-talkie radios* (optional) __ GPS (optional)

*A happy and useful addition to the above might include two or more FRS walkie- talkies. This new type of radio is small, effective over several miles and often modestly priced. FRS radios do not require a license. They're a great way to stay in touch with your fellow mushroom hunters in the woods and during any caravan drive to the hunting area. You can find FRS radios at most sporting goods and consumer electronics stores. (FRS radios are different from CB radios, and MUCH better in all respects.)

**MUSHROOM PERMITS are needed to collect mushrooms in the Mount Hood and Gifford Pinchot National Forests as well as other locations. These are separate permits in addition to Forest Passes. Consult your trip leader for questions about permits and passes.