First Sightings of the
2003 Season
Last update:
Tuesday, June 17, 2003 - 7:45 a.m. cdst
Tuesday, April 15, 2003:
We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our friend Larry "Tree"
Lonik. See home page |
The First Sighting of the
year was from California on 01/17/03
Thanks
to all reporters, we obviously couldn't do this without you. The success
of the sightings page overwhelms us. Our purpose is to be educational and
we're learning more than anyone! If there's anything we can do to improve
it, let us know.
As a public service we post all reports
of morels sightings that have been reported to us and leave them year-round
as an unofficial, unscientific, undocumented study of the arrival of our
favorite fungi. For now, please email reports, questions comments, or answers
to Morel Mania
If usage warrants, we'll turn it into a bulletin board with instant posting.
Currently messages are posted by state in the order we receive them. We
don't post complete names or email addresses because we don't want you receiving
unwanted email from some group sending junk email (or following you into
the woods!)
Please DON'T send your
reports in ALL CAPS.
Also, without giving away your GPS
coordinates, try to give us a hint of location within your state - for example:
north, south, county, nearest city, etc.
Webdude's comments in green. Email
us: Morel Mania
We' get a lot of reports
with no state mentioned. Usually we figure most of them out. If we've guessed
wrong, let us know. Please help us by putting your state somewhere in the
message. If you don't see your report, check the Unknown. To those of you
that have forwarded pictures, thank you, but it's all we can do right now
to keep the information updated. We'll post the pitures as time allows.
Pictures
from the 2002 Illinois State Morel Mushroom Hunting Championship & Spongy
Fungi Festival
States in BOLD have reports
AL, AK, Alberta, AR, AZ British Columbia, CA, CO, CT, England, FL, GA, HI,
ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, MD, ME,
Manitoba, MA, MI, MN,
MS, MO, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, Ontario, OR, PA, Quebec, Saskatchewan, SC, SD, TN, TX, Turkey, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY, Unknown
NEW! Progress
Maps by Dr. Michael Kuo of mushroomexpert.com
Dr. Kuo uses information from the
"Sightings" page and several morel discussion boards to compile
weeky progess maps |
Alabama:
Alaska:
Date: Mon, 16 Jun 2003 21:54:00 -0800. Subject: First Morels. Found our
first ones today (6/16/2003) twenty miles west of Glennallen, Alaska
I only wish they were as thick as the mosquitoes. Anna S.
Arizona:
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2003 19:38:58 -0500. Subject: Arizona Mushrooms.
You might be interested in the July 2003 edition of Arizona Highways. While
I don't see any sightings from AZ, an article features the Arizona Mushroom
Club ... 300+ members ... a trek to the White Mountains ... and a
picture of a "cavernous yellow morel" on page 51. I'm going now
to check out their website. Norm
Alberta, Canada:
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 10:40:35 -0600. Subject: Found some. I found a
14 black ones near Athabasca Alberta Canada. They appear to be just
starting and I'll hunt for some more next weekend. The weather turned cold
(2 degrees C) on the weekend but is supposed to be 20 degrees C by the middle
of the week. Dan
Date: Sat, 31 May 2003 13:04:23 -0700. Subject: found morels. Hi Tom.
Liz and Barry here. Went picking in Slave Lake area May 22
Found false morels. No morels yet in burn area of 2 years ago, by the way
do the morels grow in a burn area the 2nd year after the burn.We also went
to the Ft. Macmurry area on the 28th and 29th 0f May. Found some
nice black morels but mostly small ones.Funny we were the only ones picking.
Date: Tue, 3 Jun 2003 12:36:34 -0600. Subject: Early Morels. Picked 25
pounds of Early Morels (Verpa Bohemica I believe) and 4 black ones (elata)
on May 25-27 in west central Alberta. Some sites indicate these Early
Morels as poisonous. Not sure what to make of that. Victor A.
Arkansas:
Date: Sat, 22 Mar 2003 10:00:12 -0600. Subject: AR Report. Went to my
location in NW Arkansas near Siloam Springs today (03/22/03) and
found nothing. This spot usually produces a small cache of morels and I
am certain that it will again soon. ~Scott
From: Jim H. Date: Wed, 26 Mar 2003 14:33:28 -0800. Subject: First
Mushrooms of 2003. Oh Joy to the World!!! Found seven small gray morels
in the front yard of a business in Harrison, Arkansas today. Big
yellows can't be far behind!!!! 3-26-03. Read this and weep brothers Larry,
Denny and Don.
Date: Fri, 28 Mar 2003 10:07:13 -0600. Subject: Morels
in North Central Arkansas. Tom, I went out yesterday (Thursday) to
my favorite morel area not too far from Petit Jean State Park and
over the course of 5 hours I collected over 250 gray (young yellow) morels!
This calculates to 50 morels per hour - not a bad haul for an afternoon
of walking in the woods. I am returning to the area on Saturday and perhaps
Sunday. Judging from what I saw yesterday - it appears that morels may be
fruiting in large numbers in Arkansas this year, so I am cautiously optimistic
that this year may be a GREAT year for collecting morels in Arkansas. Jay
J.
Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. Subject: Update on morels in Arkansas.
I visited my morel site this past Saturday and Sunday. Saturday I collected
146 gray and yellow morels and the largest Gyromitra caroliniana that
I think I have ever seen. It weighted 4 lbs and 4 ounces and the head measured
19" in circumference at the widest point. It was a foot tall. Sunday
I hunted for about 6 hours but only found about 46 more morels. I plan to
visit the site one more time this coming Saturday and I am hoping to hit
a mark of 500 morels collected this season on Saturday. This year is turning
out to be a great year for morels in Arkansas at least based on the collections
at the site where I hunt. Jay
Date: Wed, 2 Apr 2003 15:59:06 -0600. Subject: RE: picture
of large false morel. I noticed you had some pics of morels on your sightings
page and I just wanted to make the offer to send you a pic of the very large
Gyromitra caroliniana if you think it would be a good pic to include on
the sightings page. The circumference measured 19" at the widest part
of the cap. It weighted 4 lbs., 4oz when removed from its natural habitat.
I plan to visit my site one more time this coming Saturday and I will give
my final report of the season for me in Arkansas after that visit. My next
moreling event will be in Missouri the last weekend of April. Jay. A caution to readers - the
mushroom pictured is a Gyromitra caroliniana. It is not a morel at all.
This particular variety is edible - BUT is has many look-alikes that can
be poisonous remember -if they're reddish, you could be deadish.
See Michael Kuo's website. mushroomexpert.com
Date: Thu, 3 Apr 2003 10:34:15 -0600. Subject: Edibility of Gyromitra
caroliniana. Tom, Apparently you and Michael Kuo differ in your opinion
of the edibility of G. caroliniana. As you can see below, he says that it
is not a safe edible."I am still of the opinion that it is not
entirely a safe mushroom to eat and I do not recommend it to people - at
least those that I like!, Jay.
Gyromitra caroliniana http://www.bluewillowpages.com/mushroomexpert/gyromitra.html
False Morel Toxicity http://www.bluewillowpages.com/mushroomexpert/false_morel_toxicity.html
This springtime false morel occurs in the Mississippi and Ohio valleys.
Despite the fact that it is consumed by many, this mushroom is not a safe
edible! See the page on False Morel Toxicity for further information.
Good catch Jay, Actually Michael and I agree completely
in that neither one of us would consume the Gyromitra caroliniana or any
of the red false morels. I meant to add that it is not a safe edible,
which is why I referred to Michael's website. For those of you that want
to read Michael's False Morel Toxicity report, I'm posting it here because
it is important. You may also see it on Michael's page at the link. The
information below is copyrighted so if you pass it on, you need to give
credit to: Kuo, M. (2001). False morel toxicity. Retrieved from the
MushroomExpert.Com Web site: http://www.bluewillowpages.com/mushroomexpert/false_morel_toxicity.html
False Morel Toxicity Though it is rare, it is well documented
that false morels can be fatally poisonous. The poison in false morels is
MMH, or monmethylhydrazine (a chemical also found in rocket fuel). Though
MMH is not understood completely by scientists, there is no question about
whether it is poisonous or not. It appears that MMH may occur in different
quantities in different false morels (even members of the same species),
that its presence may vary according to geography, that its affect on people
may vary between individuals, and that its toxicity may be cumulative (raising
the possibility of eating false morels safely for years and then, one day,
croaking after one bite). Clearly, MMH is not to be messed with.
Despite scientific evidence that false morels are poisonous, they are
eaten by many people. I concede this point. Many mushroomers in our area
scoff at warnings about the "beefsteak morel," since they have
been picking and eating them for years. These people are lucky.
It is quite possible that Old Bob could eat beefsteak morels for 20 years,
and one day keel over in the kitchen just from breathing the fumes of the
cooking mushrooms. It's probably possible to press your lips to your car's
exhaust pipe and breathe deeply once a week for 20 years without ever feeling
the effects . . . does that mean you'd do it?
The "Scandinavia excuse" is worthless. Yes, false morels are
picked, eaten, even sold commercially in Scandinavia. I lived in Finland
for a year, and found plenty of false morels--"ear mushrooms"
(korvasieni), as they call them. But I didn't eat one bite. It may
be that, for some reason, the far northern latitude is related to reduced
levels of poison. But even in Finland, reports of poisonings exist; the
year I was there newspapers were beginning to warn their readers about possible
dangers.
Even when it's not fatal, MMH is not a pleasant poison. You could be
hospitalized, sick for days, or just throw up all night, depending on many
factors. Mushroom author David Arora writes that false morels "have
puzzled scientists for years because of the very narrow threshold between
complete absence of discomfort and severe poisoning or even death"
(893). Do you want to approach that threshold? The only intelligent decision
to make about false morels is to admire their beauty and move on; no person
in his or her right mind should knowingly eat a false morel.
Kuo, M. (2001). False morel toxicity. Retrieved from the MushroomExpert.Com
Web site: http://www.bluewillowpages.com/mushroomexpert/false_morel_toxicity.html
Date: Mon, 07 Apr 2003 18:45:17 -0500. Last Saturday (April 6), I searched
my favorite morel site in Sebastian County Arkansas. I go when
the redbud trees are in bloom. That has always been the best indicator
for me. So the time being right, I set out for the "ash grove"
and found morels but not in number or size as last year-I suspect that perhaps
it has been drier this year. Ron
Date: Tue, 08 Apr 2003. Subject: Arkansas. Found a few in southern
Arkansas County a week ago and had a report of a finding along the lower
White River last Sat. This last weekend I (April 5-6) found about 30
in Stone, Baxter and VanBuren counties in north central Arkansas. Most were
small, gray and just starting to poke up through the leaves. I looked around
a lot of ash trees to find them. Until last Sunday most of this area has
had very little rainfall. Hopefully the freeze in northern Arkansas tonite
won't scare them away. Jerry L
From: Char. Date: Wed, 09 Apr 2003 21:08:04 -0700. Subject: morels.
I live in Batesville,Ark. It is in the north central part of the state.Last
week I found a few blacks and this week I found all three kinds. I've been
hunting morels for about 20 years.I mostly find them around Elm trees
and Ash trees.They usually come up when the red buds bloom around
here.
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 10:29:18 -0500. Subject: Arkansas morels. Temperatures
reached unusually high levels (80's) this weekend which was a surprise after
having snow flurries last Wed. With low humidity the woods were very dry.
However, morel hunting was pretty good. I found 105 morels with most being
yellow and some blacks. They were at the base of ash trees near the tops
of ridges of the Ozark Mts in north central Arkansas (Polk and VanBuran
counties). There should be a week or two left for finding them. Jerry
L.
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels in AR. Found our first morel
April 4th, in Carroll Co. Arkansas. Have found a few hunred between
3 people. We hunt all colors, the grey and yellow under sycamore and black
under ash trees. Went today 4-19-03, after the rain and filled 3 mesh orange
bag half way full. Please. if you hunt use mesh bags, NOT plastic. Sending
this cute picture of a large one i found today. Thanks for the site, Mary
W.
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: 2003 Arkansas Sightings. The
wife and I went out 04/18/03 and found enough for a small meal. We were
hunting only around our house near Siloam Springs, AR. This year
has been a bit dry and had some wild variances in temperature. We finally
got a good rain yesterday and today is overcast a cool, so hopefully we
can knock one out of the park today. The best finds so far were in shaded
areas 2-3" tall yellow morels!! It's like Easter for grownups!! :)
Best of luck to everyone and have a fantastic day. ~Scott
British Columbia,
Canada:
Date: Fri, 02 May 2003 05:51:46 +0000. Subject: morel sighting in BC.
Hi Tom. I spotted a large black one near Parksville on Vancouver Island,
BC. The date April 21, '03. This was a natural not from a burn site.
Have fun. Lisa
California:
morels sighted! Date: Fri, 17 Jan 2003 20:07:10 EST. WAKE UP!!! A friend
of mine, says his friend in southern cal. found about three pounds
of yellow morels. He said close to the coast. Maybe right on the coast,
my guess, in the ice plant. I'm not down there, I'm in N.cal.If I lived
there I'd be looking....pappo
Sat, 18 Jan 2003 00:40:33 -0600, I got a sighting for ya. Today (1/17/2003)
I found some 2 inch tall black morels along 2nd street in Davis, CA.
I had Chris Friel, the president of the Davis Mycological Society confirm
my ID for me since I'm an amateur edibles collector. Being somewhat ignorant,
I ate one raw. 12 hours later, no signs yet of poisoning, yet. I'll keep
my fingers crossed. Anyway, happy hunting. -Daniel R. Dan,
before you depart (just kidding) we'd all be interested in the flavor of
the raw one. I've had raw morels served in restaurants so maybe you'll be
okay. The flavor wasn't nearly as good. Tom N.
Sighting, Date: Thu, 13 Feb 2003 18:44:35 -0800, From: Kev. I
found several nice morels growing in the mortar of a brick wall, in the
mission district of San Francisco today!
Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 01:41:55 -0800. Subject: Morels in my backyard?
Hello, I'm in San Mateo, California. I have absolutely no experience
in identifying mushrooms, but I'm almost positive I've got some morels growing
in my backyard. I've got 2 or 3 just starting to sprout, and one that's
about 6-7 inches in length. Is there any way I can find out for sure? Thanks!
-Derek Y. Hi Derek,There are three characteristics
that are common to true edible morels. In other words, a true morel has
all three of these characteristics: 1. The cap resembles a sponge with pits
and ridges rather than folds and wrinkles. 2. A morel is completely hollow
- both the cap and the stem. 3. The cap and stem are connected to each other
at the base of the cap. The alternate is that the stem goes up into the
cap thus the cap hangs down over the stem. This is the season in California,
so if what you have meets the above criteria - enjoy. If the weather stays
cool and moist, the morels will continue to grow. You could even water them
with non-clorinated water. Once it gets above 80 degrees, they will start
to deteriorate. Hope this helps. Tom N.
From: Greenvalleygrill. Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 14:03:33 EST. Subject:
sightings. i found 5 lbs in my neighbors back yard in santa cruz CA
on feb 20th. in landscape bark laid new this summer..probably originated
from oregon due ot the mass sprouting that is occurring...not usual for
santa cruz....we find them sporadiccally at best!!
From: "Longmires". Date: Fri, 14 Mar 2003 22:02:20 -0800.
Subject: morels in sierra nevada, California. I found 6 thumb-sized morels
on March 1, 2003 growing in a raised garden bed mulched with wood chips.
5 of them were what I'd call M. crassipes and 1 was definitely different
-- probably M. deliciosa. This is near Rough & Ready, CA, at an elevation
of 2,200 feet. However, I've been looking since then and have found
no more.
Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2003 16:06:41 EST. Morels in Eldorado County Ca.
Received an email from a friend on Saturday that he had been alerted to
a fruiting in a freshly mulched public "garden" bed in
his home town, he picked 8 lb., told a neighbor who picked some more, and
I showed up Monday and was still able to get 3 lb. and leave enough for
another time (or someone else). Examples collected were M. elata, M. angusticeps,
M. esculenta, M. conica, and M. semilibera. Very nice to be able to get
so many different varieties in one place and at one time, sure doesn't happen
often enough for me! Good luck to all in your hunts this year. Jon D.
From: Pappion333. Date: Sat, 22 Mar 2003 11:10:57 EST. Subject:
morel sightings mulch content. Hello fellow California hunters, I believe
that bark and mulch most likely originates from either Oregon or Idaho.
A mix of Ponderosa pine and Oregon white fir.The angusticep morel grows
in the forest there naturally, and the conica morels flurish in logged areas
and disturbed soils(often in bark mulch).I doubt this Morel producing bark
is from redwood. Happy Hunting.
From: Debra H. Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: CA morel sightings.
Im new to the world of morels, but am rapidly becoming addicted! A new neighbor
turned me on to the fact that I have them growing all over my hill. They
seem to love the darkness under my Manzanita trees. Ive even found some
that are baseball size. Funny thing, they hve been there every spring for
years, I just thought they were fun brainy looking fungusS go figure! Oh
by the way, Im in Middletown, CA, which is up north of Napa.
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 16:00:47 -0700. Subject: sighting near Yosemite.
We live in Mariposa, California -- about 40 miles from Yosemite National
Park. Morels have appeared on the site of last fall's burn pile and near
some Ponderosa pines. Trudy W.
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. I was shocked to find some morels growing
in wood chips (April 28, 2003) and mulch in my front yard in Simi Valley,
California!! My family and I were fanatics for hunting morels when I
grew up in northern Ohio 45 years ago. I still dream about hunting them
in woods back there, but never thought I'd find them in my front yard. I'm
still examining them to be sure they are true morels. I'd love a picture
to differentiate between "pits and ridges" and "folds and
wrinkles". These fit the other two requirements and I guess would be
considered black morels I grew up with brown and light colored ones.
I am so excited to find them and all this information on the web site.
Thanks. Chris E.
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003 20:52:52 -0700. Subject: Morel Sighting in Northern
California. From Jeffery. 04-30-2003. Found small patch of Yellow
Morels in sandy dirt 2 feet from pavement on the shoulder of Hwy 20 at
Blue Lakes, located just inside Lake County's Western border. The largest
was just short of 6" tall. I've found quite a few over the years but
never this close to a well traveled roadway or in shoulder fill type of
soil. They'll go well with the London Broil I had planned for tonight.
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 12:10:42 PDT. Subject: CA sightings. Hi, I found
18 small but tasty blonds in El Dorado county, CA. They were just
downhill from the snow melt, at about 4000' elevation. Some were even
breaking through the edge of the snow. Seemed to be associated with chapparals,
in disturbed ground (campsites). Thanks for the site, Brad
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 15:24:10 -0700. Subject: Sighting report. Hiya,
May 13, 2003 - Lake Tahoe / Sighting report - Black Morels. These are the
first I have seen this year on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Located
in the middle of a very lightly used forest road at 6300 feet surrounding
a protruding piece of granite. pic attached. The one on the left is
about as big as my thumb. I visited this area one week ago and saw nothing.
Jim D.
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 15:38:11 -0700. Subject: good year!! Tuolumne
Co. CA. May 13. Lots of morels between 4 and 6 thousand feet ele.
Early for this area and ABUNDANT!! Mostly on southern facing slopes,
open areas. Leni
Date: Thu, 12 Jun 2003 14:02:05 -0500. Subject: Morels in N. California!!!
Two lucky Midwesterners were camped near Mount Shasta, CA on Memorial
Day 2003 and found about 5 pounds of lovely black morels. Some were fresh,
most were dry which wasn't bad, it was convenient since we were traveling
w/o a cooler. We were just below 5000 feet and the snow pack started
around 5500, so I am thinking we were just at the right level since
we looked a little higher and lower and found nothing in similar areas.
They made the rest of our trip quite tasty because we ate them for three
days at dinner and certainly hadn't expected anymore since we had quit hunting
Northern Illinois about two weeks prior. Happy Trails to all!! Unkle
Korpse and Mama Doe
Colorado:
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: chomping at the bit. After two years
of horrible drought, Colorado has had lovely, welcome moisture for
the past three weeks with more expected. Although, no one has found morels
yet, we are poised, with baskets ready, to go forth and pick a bunch. Every
indicator is positive; the apple trees are blooming, the asparagus is coming
up, and when the lilacs bloom, so will the morels. Will report on the forest
fire areas, but I think the soil must be wrong, as we rarely see morels
where there has been a recent fire. Reported by BOLETUS -
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 21:40:15 EDT. Subject: Found 'em! Went to my spot
along "a waterway" in Boulder today (Fri 4/25) and found
the beginnings of a patch of yellows! Took a 3" (the biggest one there)
to prove to myself and others that I actually found some. I'll wait for
the warm weather this weekend to let the rest grow and I'll check em out
next week. Meanwhile I'll check here in Loveland tomorrow to see
if I can find some... Cheers! John C.
On Friday, April 25th I checked my favorite Morel spot near Boulder
and just outside Denver along the Platt River. and found over a dozen
young yellows in just one small area. I picked about 5 of them and planned
to return to the area Sunday to allow them to grow a bit more and spore.
I used the 5 to demonstrate how morels look as I led a Morel Foray for the
Colorado Mycological Society on Saturday, April 26th. I spent the day showing
our members how to identify habitat and other indicators and the group found
about 45 to 60 yellow morels. Most were quite young. There are a couple
of interesting notes to this season in Colorado. Some of the indicators
that I have been using are a little off. Yellow morels in Colorado are often
associated with narrow leaf cottonwood, and appear about the time
that the leaves on the tree are about an 1.1/4 inch long. This season the
narrow leaf cottonwood leaves are late and most are still in bud phase.
Other indicators such as the height of grasses and mints and the blooming
of Oregon Grape are right where they should be. Another difference this
year is that we are finding morels under Box Elder this spring, much
more so than in other years. Lastly, a few of my prime spots have not yielded
any morels. I do not know if this is because of last year's drought, or
if it is just too early yet. On a disappointing note, when I returned to
my best morel grounds on Sunday, someone had picked the area clean. I guess
I will have to find some new areas, always a long process in Colorado. William
N. W.
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: Colorado's first morels.
46 morels may not sound like many to those who pick 46 pounds, but it is
pretty good for us. On Saturday, the 26th of April, a group foray turned
up 46 in one of the canyons west of Denver. I went today and found
only two, but all the indicators are indicating, so I expect to be collecting
a lot in about a week to ten days. We need just a little more warm weather.
BOLETUS
Date: Fri, 2 May 2003 06:24:30 -0600 Subject: Morels found in Colorado.
Western Slope Colorado, May 1, 2003: Found close to two dozen after
work. This is the first time I've found morels here in Colorado since I
moved out here in '97. They were all grays/yellows, with one black morel
thrown in for good measure. Most of them were in good shape, with just a
couple being a bit on the dry side. Sorry I can't be more specific on location!
Good morel spots seem to be few and far between here, and it's taken me
6 years to find this one, but I wanted folks to know that they're out there.
Greg
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 15:28:19 -0600. Subject: Re: Sightings - 2003,
Colorado. Hi Tom, Just a quick note - I really appreciate your site. It
helps me to keep track of the season and it is interesting to watch how
different weather patterns affect fruiting. Thanks for hosting it! Here
is an update on Morel fruiting in the Denver and Mountain Area of Colorado.
It has been an odd season, good mixed with bad. My peak findings for Yellow
Morels was about ten days ago (May 1st) and I collected well over 120 in
two days. This came from my best areas in Boulder near running creeks.
The yellows this year seemed more sensitive to micro environments. In areas
where I found them, I found large numbers, but in other areas that were
productive in previous years I did not find any. Usually, I cover a large
area and find many small groups of two and three yellow morels in between
occasional large clusters. This year, the small groups did not show. When
I found one morel, there were usually at least a dozen nearby. In one case,
Norm Birchler (Editor of CMS SporesAfield) and I collected over 80 in an
area not larger than 12 ft X 25 ft. and then found nothing more the rest
of the afternoon. These morel 'zones' were further apart from each other
than in previous years and most were in flood plains.. While I do understand
morel environment in Colorado, I do not know very much about the morel fungi
itself. My personal 'theory' is that the drought last year killed off many
of the smaller 'plants'. The larger ones that survived, produced fruit in
large numbers due to stored energy from not fruiting last year. I have no
idea if there is any scientific merit in this theory, but it does seem to
match my findings. On Thursday, (May 8th) I returned to my good areas to
see if I (and other hunters who have seen me hunting in the area - sigh!)
had missed any. I took a long and very slow hunt and came up with a little
more than a dozen very large yellows, several about the size of baseballs
and all in zones where I had previously found Yellows. My previous experience
has been that these big ones are the very last of the Yellow season and
always after finding the big one the Yellows 'run-out' in about 4 to five
days. So I'm pretty sure the Yellow season is just about over in Colorado.
I am curious to see how the Blacks will produce. Usually, I start finding
them in the foothills within about 5 days after the big yellows show up.
Last year the foothills did not produce, but the mountains did produce just
a little less than previous years, even though rain was almost non-existent.
Snow melt must have kept soils wet enough for the higher elevations to produce.
I wonder if we will see the same pattern as the lowlands where fewer plants
produce large numbers, or if all plants will produce well. I only have a
coupe of foothill 'spots' so it will be interesting to see what happens.
I will update this web-site when I start finding Blacks in the mountains
and will also send in an 'end of morel season' summary. William N. W.
Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 17:49:33 -0400. Subject: one more batch. Colorado
May 21st. Squeezed one more batch of seven 3"- 4" yellows from
my patch in S Boulder. It's a record for me for this late in the
season -I've been to that spot 6 times and gotten a few lbs each time. Enough
to share with morel virgins and brag to jealous fellow ex-midwesterners!
Now to see what this burn area morel stuff is all about, lol! See you next
year folks! John C.
Date: Thu, 29 May 2003 18:30:06 -0700. Subject: COLORADO MOREL SIGHTINGS.
May 28, 2003 - Just had our first experience with morel hunting in , Southwest
Colorado, outside Lake Vallecito near the burn area. My husband and
I gathered at least 20 lbs. of fresh morels - they were in specific spots
under aspens. We were blessed to find them! I made a linguini with alfredo
sauce recipe I had brought with me to our Mountain home - It was the best
I ever had! I think we're hooked on schrooming! Nancy W.
Date: Sun, 8 Jun 2003 08:30:51 -0600. Subject: Colorado Morel
Sightings. We are now chasing Black Morels in the mountains. Following
the yellows in the 'low-lands' of Boulder, Black Morels started showing
up at the 7,000 ft level in mid-May. By may 24th they were fruiting
at 8,000 ft. and yesterday, June 7th I was finding Black Morels at
9,000 ft. Look for them in Aspen Stands mixed with Pine. Flat
spots are better than hill-sides although I have been finding them on
both. I have noticed that once they fruit, they are not lasting very long
this season. In the past, I was able to hunt the same area for Black morels
for about ten days. This year, most are gone by 7 days, so if your finding
them, work the area well. Happy hunting and good eating to all! William
N. W.
Connecticut:
Date: Thu, 01 May 2003 21:21:16 -0400. Subject: First one in Connecticut.
Hi there, I went out yesterday, April 24 2003 11:00 AM at Putnam Memorial
State Park and found 1st black morel only 1 1/2 inch tall. The weather
is still cold for this time of the year so should be better time next week.
Happy Mushrooming. Vladimir, Milford,CT
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 08:50:01 EDT. Subject: They're here in CT! Two
days of rain and somewhat warmer nights have brought a fine flush of pristine
grays in the moss under the old apple tree in the backyard. I live
on the Connecticur River about 1/2way between Hartford and Old Saybrook.
Not many people here even know what a morel looks like....More for the rest
of us, I suppose...Now for the first mushroom omelet of the season. Happy
hunting! Heathertee2002
From: Mark Y. Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: morel sighting.
I sighted my first morel (very blonde) in Westport Connecticut on
Monday 5/12, I only found two about 2.5 inches tall. I waited two days to
pick them hoping they'd grow but didn't. I put them in the Frig till today
(Thursday) they got a little light brown but not black. So, are these Yellow
morels or immature Black?
From: Merle S. K. Date: Wed, 14 May 2003 16:21:29 -0400. Subject:
Morels. It seems we have them in NW Connecticut!
England:
Florida:
No reports yet.
Georgia:
Thurs, March 13, 2003. I went out here in mid Georgia today hunting,
if black Morels grew here, they would be up, as redbuds in bloom, bloodroot,
even a few purple Trilliums are opening up, but no luck yet. I have only
found Gray or Yellow Morels here in Central Georgia. The farthest
south I have found Black Morels was in Red Top Mountain State Park, north
of Atlanta. From Chris M. Note: Chris Matherly
runs the http://www.morelmushroomhunting.com/
web site
Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2003 21:53:09 EST. Georgia. Tom, if you want
to add to the Georgia finds, I found 10 esculentas yesterday under Poplar
trees in lowlands. I went back out today and was skunked though! But
at least I have a taste! Chris M
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 11:37:58 -0400. Subject: Georgia Morels. Hello
Tom, It has been a while since I wrote. I am Jody M, formally of
Newport News, VA. I posted several sightings back in 2000 and 2001. Since
then I went to Korea for a year and a half. Now I am back in the states
stationed in Georgia. I need some help finding the elusive Morels. I looked
at the Georgia sightings and looks like only one person posted anything
yet (Chris M). Anyway, I need to know if the season is finished here in
Middle Georgia (Macon) or if I still have a chance. I have looked a few
places, but no luck. I usually look for May Apple's first, then I know the
Morels are up, but I can't even find them. Please help. My mouth is watering.
Jody M. Hi Jody, Welcome home. I suggest you contact
Chris M. at the link above. He may be able to help.
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2003 19:52:38 -0400. Subject: Georgia
Morels. Well Tom it looks like I found some finally. I was begining to give
up hope. I found 21 black ones near poplar trees. Looks like they
had been waiting on me for a day or so, but they are still going to taste
good. Thanks for hooking me up with Chris M. He helped out a lot and we
are going together this Saturday. Can't wait. Jody. Hi
Jody, I seem to remember you helping Clay and others a couple of years ago
in VA. Even passing on your best spot to them. It's nice to know that what
goes around comes around in the positive sense also. I'm glad Chris M. was
able to help.
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 22:50:03 -0500. Subject: Georgia
Morels. Hey, Found 37 Georgia morels under ash and poplar trees with
black soil. Check out the pics. Tony B.
Date: Sun, 30 Mar 2003. Subject: GA morels. Tom, just wanted to let you
know that I hooked up with Jody, and we went out today and found 22 small
yellow morels and 2 black morels just north of Macon, Georgia. Hard
to believe that black morels have been found so far into the deep south!
Chris Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. Subject: Mushrooms mushrooms.
We found three tonite in the apple orchard where they were last year.
Cold spell and work kept us from looking over the weeend, but will go out
tomorrow afternoon. Will let you know what we find. Chris and Judy
From: Jody. Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. Subject: Georgia.
Looks like Clay in Virginia is hitting that spot again. Well, I went out
Sunday withe Chris M of Georgia and we gathered 27. 2 blacks and
25 yellows, all growing within a 200 ft. area. I'll be checking again this
weekend.
From: Chris M. Date: Wed, 2 Apr 2003 21:39:19 EST. Subject:
motherload in GA. Tom, I had to let you know that I discovered a true
motherload here in the deep south! Roger R. was turkey hunting and stumbled
across what he thought may be Morels. He invited me to come see, I went
prepared with video and digital cameras. It was amazing! 158 large yellow
Morels 5-8" tall, 25 pounds! Jasper County, GA.-Chris M. All I can say is "WOW!" I would never have expected
to see such a picture from Georgia. For those who don't have an Atlas, Jasper
County is approximately 100 miles SE of Atlanta,GA and contains part of
the Oconee National Forest. I mention this because it is legal to harvest
mushrooms in National Forests. Congrats to Roger & Chris.
Date: Fri, 4 Apr 2003 23:15:56 -0500. Subject: Georgia Morels. Found
another 50 morels today in Hall county Georgia. Found all in flat
lowlands under poplar and ash. I'm very excited about finding morels in
Georgia. I have been hunting here for a couple of years with good luck.
Will be heading to Ohio in the next two weeks. Great pics from Chris M.
Tony B.
Date: Mon, 07 Apr 2003 09:52:41 -0400. Subject: April 5 finds. Hi! I've
never had a lot of luck hunting morels in my area of Georgia (Stone Mountain,
east of Atlanta) but this year up at my soon-to-be new home in North
GA (Jasper/Ellijay area) I found a nice little haul of good sized (and
tasty!) blacks on Saturday April 5. My property is on top of a mountain
(at around 2000 feet above sea level) and I found them on the north face
among a stand of tree fall I think was mostly poplar and elm. The first
picture of them is a view from the deck of my house on the mountain. Susan
S.
Hawaii:
Idaho:
Date: Fri, 28 Mar 2003 20:53:08 EST. Subject: morel --
north idaho. yes-yes-early first morels found in the great silver valley--north
idaho--off of i-90-between lookout pass @ fourth of july pass i have
the feeling it's going to be a great yr. your morel hunting pard, bo
From: Conrad V. Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003 12:59:34 -0700. Subject:
North Idaho Morels. A little late reporting - found 6 morels in Clark
Fork, Idaho (way up north) April 9th. And still finding 'em
From: Michelle. Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Idaho. Saturday,
April 19th: North Idaho - Rathdrum area. Found 2 dozen, good size.
But only on west facing hills. Couldn't find any on any other hills. We
left lots of babies behind for later. Thanks!
From: Michelle H. Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: report. Idaho.
North Idaho April 22, 2003. 3-4 pounds, all yellows near Canfield Mountain
Coeur d' Alene, all on west facing slopes
From: Addie C. Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: morel findings.
Two pounds of freshies in less than two hours on south facing hills in Vassar
Meadows North Idaho. Found a cluster of eight 2-4 inchers...sweet! May
15th, 2003 Best birthday present reliably for three years.
Illinois:
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 10:40:29 -0600. Subject: First
morel...again. Tom, Here's a digital photo of my first Illinois morel of
2003, found March 19 in Williamson County, about 50 miles north of the
southern tip of Illinois. As you can see (with some difficulty), the
morel is so ridiculously tiny it begs the question: "What constitutes
a legitimate morel mushroom?" Yes, that tiny blob perched atop the
crumb of soil is a morel. Or it will be anyway. Measuring just 3 millimeters,
it's the smallest morel I've ever seen in the wild. Twenty of them would
fit inside a thimble. Here's where the legitimacy of proclaiming "morels
are up!" becomes an issue. For some of us restless, sleepless types,
it isn't enough to wait until morels are actually visible above the leaf
litter before we head into the woods. As the late snows finally melt and
buds on trees begin to split open and vegetation begins to crawl out of
winter, we just KNOW there must be tiny morels out there, almost ready to
poke above the forest floor. And so we do something, well, something immorel--pun
intended. We tip-toe toward a place where our beloved mushrooms will eventually
grow , crouch down, then resort to the ultimate picker's crime: brushing
aside a few leaves. That's the story behind this year's first morel; I cheated.
I admit it. And I don't claim that this report represents the first morel
in existence in Illinois. This happened to be the first one I saw after
brushing aside a few handfuls of leaves. What it tells me is this: Morels
are developing as fruiting bodies right now (putting to rest my annual winter
fears), and within days I'll be able to legitimately harvest enough for
a meal. I'll leave it at that. Joe M. Congratulations
Joe! Vicky says, "you're terrible", but I understand. And, I've
seen her harvest a few wee ones also.
From: "Mikey". Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003
08:26:52 -0600. I found my first morel of the year on 03/23/03 A
black/brown morel. I live in elizabethtown IL. but I found it at Cave
In Rock IL. about 13 miles from Elizabethtown IL. only found one
though. in pine needles, Real small about 2" tall
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2003 11:29:59 -0800 (PST). Subject: 1st
morel of 2003. Here is a picture of my first black morel of 2003.For any
of you non-believers out there I took the photo with a 2003 Illinois quarter.
It was found Mar. 26 in Fayette county,Il. BARTMAN
Date: Fri, 28 Mar 2003 10:01:35 -0600. Subject: A few small
blacks... Tom, Here's a note to follow-up on the progress of the season
in southern Illinois as of March 28. I returned to the spot in Williamson
County where I found my first morel March 19 (that minuscule speck I
photographed next to my business card) and found two small black morels
poking above the leaf litter this time. Both were a mere 1 inch tall, yet
they were actually visible--no digging under the leaves this time. This
find corresponds with the March 24 report from "Mikey" in Elizabethtown
(roughly 50 miles south and east of Williamson County). The small morel
he located a few days earlier seems to resemble the size of the morels I
found a bit farther north on March 28. We're finding the first few loners,
so to speak, that always pop up a bit earlier than the rest of the crop.
At this point, there's still no urgent need for anyone in Illinois to race
out into the woods to find morels. Sure, folks in southern Illinois will
be able to scrounge up a few morels during the next few days. But I doubt
there is a site anywhere in our region that could somehow, magically produce
a basket full of big morels right now. The red bud trees are just beginning
to show a bit of burgandy-colored haze on a few trees. I saw the first May
apple plants emerging as cone-shaped umbrellas from the forest floor a few
days ago. Serviceberry is suddenly in bloom. Those three indicators, among
many others, tend to correspond with the occurrence of the first black morels
of the season in southern Illinois. Keeping notes every year has been a
tremendous benefit. I did locate a few fresh, young false morels in Jackson
County on March 24. (There are a number of species we commonly describe
as "false morels." These were Gyromitra fastigiata.) If
I were to pull out a crystal ball and predict when morel hunters ought to
head into the woods of southern Illinois with expectations of actually finding
enough morels for a meal, I'd guess that time will come in about one week.
Joe M.
From: ".monte J. Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 11:15:49
-0600. Subject: sightings. I found my first 5 black morels of the
year on 3-27-03. They were 3/4" to 2" tall growing on a south
facing slope in Jackson County, Il.
Date: Sun, 30 Mar 2003. Subject: 16 small blacks. Found 16 small blacks
today in Rosiclare, Ill. All were through the leaves, no brushing
leaves back. All were approx. 2" tall. Should be better next weekend
for sure! Brenda and David
Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. Subject: followup. I returned to
the spot where I found my first black on march 26. Despite the last couple
nights of cold weather - upper 30's, I found 8 more yesterday,3-30.they
were smaller than the first one,from the dropping temperature I assume.One
more week @ I'll be eatin' good! BARTMAN
From: monte. Date: Tue, 1 Apr 2003. I found 11 more small blacks
on a South slope on 3-30-03. The woods still don't look ready. Give
it 2 or 3 warm days and nights in a row and we'll get some in numbers.
Date: Tue, 1 Apr 2003 21:47:09 -0600. Subject: illinois
morels found. Hi Tom, Michael Kuo and I found approximately 30 small blacks
1-3 inches high this morning (April 1st) in Shelby County, Illinois.
I'm looking forward to meeting you in Magnolia. Unfortnately, I won't get
to go on the hunt because I'll be gathering samples from hunt participants
for our Morel Data Collection Project. I'll be one jealous old man, to be
sure, but it will be a pleasure to see what everyone finds. Best, Bob
Zordani
Date: Wed, 02 Apr 2003 10:59:15 -0600. Subject: southern Illinois
update. It's time for everyone who knows where to find black morels
in southern Illinois to go out and at least glance at those potential sites.
Right now, the early patches of black morels are ready for picking in the
southern part of the state. But, bear in mind, they're not up everywhere
yet. Don't be disappointed if you get skunked at a place you expected to
find black morels. Wait several days, then give it another shot. On April
1 I found 69 blacks in Jackson County on a south-facing hillside in a
mixed hardwood spot that always produces morels a bit earlier than other
sites. As example, a site just a couple of hundred yards away (coincidentally,
also on a south-facing slope) hasn't produced a single morel yet, although
that spot always produces hundreds of black morels every spring, typically
a week or more after the first site has matured and started to deteriorate.
The condition of the morels April 1 was excellent. Sizes ranged from 2-5
inches tall, with all of them fresh and, of course, delicious. Joe M.
Wed, 2 Apr 2003 20:52:57 EST. Subject: sightings. Date: 4/ 2/ 2003 Destiny
in Bond County, IL found 5 Baby greys the size of your pinky fingernail.
Good luck shroomers!!!!
Date: Mon, 07 Apr 2003 16:36:30 -0500. Subject: shrooms. 70 small grays
and 4 half frees today in Fairview Heights, Illinois. I've attached
a pic of one in my yard. Larry
From: Dianadiana. Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 21:06:39 EDT. Subject:
morels in madison. 7April, I found twenty grey mushrooms about 2" tall
today in Woodriver , Madison county. can't wait until tomorrow.
From: Vicki. Date: Wed, 9 Apr 2003. Subject: Found 2-IL.
I found 2 morels on April 7, 2003.
Date: Wed, 9 Apr 2003. Subject: 1st Morels April 8th. Found my 1st of
the year, 11 in about an hour on Apr 8. New Athens, St. Clair Co. Illinois.
Bob
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: Morel Sightings. Leonard, Frog, Rat and
I (Sis) went chasing morels in Jackson Co.IL. on April 5th. We caught
138 black morels on southeast facing slopes on wild cherry and white ash
trees. Mayapples were 10" tall, lilac bushes were budded but not open.
Bloodroot, dandelions, violets, cranesbill and ground ivy were all bloomed.
That evening we roadtripped to Perry Co. but its still to early there .
I guess a few miles makes a big difference. Anyway we have pictures to prove
we found em, which will be on our morel museum boards. Anyone with articles
or pictures can bring them to Jonesboro's Mid America hunt(April 19th&20th)
or Magnolias Illinois State Hunt( May3rd) or Babes Tap Humungus Fungus Festival
in Coal City (May 10th) or Boyne Citys National Hunt (May17th). And we will
put them in the Morel Museum. Remember to always carry a mesh bag and always
get permission to hunt on private land. See ya soon. The Hillbilly Gustaupo
Date: Thu, 10 Apr 2003 21:27:07 -0500. Subject: morels. My first 5 black
morels this year. Fox Ridge State Park, Coles County, near Charleston,
Illinois. 5:30 pm, April 10. >From 1 3/4 inches to 2 1/2 inches tall.
After five days of very cold weather, I was surprised. Jimmy D. Hi Jimmy, Congratulations, but, be careful in State Parks.
You may want to read the reply to Porter below.
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 08:44:51 -0500. Subject: Hunting morels. Tom,
Can you suggest any good areas to look for morels in Kane and surrounding
counties in Illinois? Porter R. Thanks. Hi Porter,
One of the problems with living in Illinois is that it is illegal to hunt
mushrooms in state parks or forest preserves. Many people do it anyway and
many rangers turn their head. Surrounding states such as: IA, WI, IN, and
MI do allow the harvest (not commercially) of fruits, nuts, and mushrooms.
There is a bill in either the Illinois House or Senate to change the law,
but I haven't heard of its passage yet. So, if you don't have access and
permission to search on private land, be discreet or head north to Wisconsin.
You may also want to read the reply to Don below. Tom.
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 09:24:34 -0500. Subject: lost. Tom i live in park
forest ill I have going to the morel hunts in magnolia for the last
7 years and have been hunting the little critters for about 45 years . it
seems i just can't find them like i use to. sure could use your help. Don,
thanks. Hi Don,
One of the problems with the modern day is urbanization.
Countless people have told me that their former honey holes are now subdivisions.
Not just around Chicago, but even some of the smaller cities too. The only
thing I can suggest is head further out into the rural areas. And, get permission.
One of the problems in getting permission is with
the legal system. People file lawsuits over the smallest things. This makes
landowners wary of giving permission to anyone for access to their land.
I'm not a lawyer, but, as I understand it, in Illinois
there are three levels of liability that a landowner has. The first and
greatest is when the landowner charges someone to use their property. The
example would be a hunting lodge that charges for use of the land for hunting
purposes.
The second level of liability is when the landowner
allows someone to use their land. They are still liable for accidents and
injuries, but not to the same degree.
The third degree of liability is when someone uses
the land without permission as in trespassing. Believe it or not, the landowner
is still somewhat liable, to a lesser degree, but he or she can still be
sued. The lawyer's fees alone, even if the landowner successfully wins the
the suit can cause any landowner to think twice about giving permission.
And because they can even be sued by trespassers, many don't think twice
about prosecuting them.
My father had nine children and over 30 grandchildren.
And, we all love mushrooms. He purchased 40 acres of wooded land specifically
for the family to hunt mushrooms on. A state highway runs right through
the middle of the 40 acres. I don't know why, but hundreds of people thought
no one would mind if they stopped to hunt mushrooms there. Rarely was there
enough mushrooms to share amongst the family, there certainly wasn't enough
to share with the public. He didn't think twice about prosecuting anyone
he found on the land. And, with the price of mushrooms being what it is,
he viewed it as theft. The courts agreed and the fine is approximately $250
for criminal trespass!
We've heard the excuse, "I didn't see any
NO TRESPASSING signs, so I thought it would be okay". When we point
out the obvious sign, usually less than 50 feet from where the trespasser's
car is parked, the reply is "Oh, I didn't see it". In Illinois,
the landowner doesn't need to post signs on the property. It is up to the
individual on the land to know who the landowner is and have permission.
As mean and ornery as Dad was when it came to trespassers,
I did witness him give permission to one person to hunt mushrooms on his
land. That person was the one (and only) person to ever have the courtesy
to stop and ask for permission!
Often when someone is taken to a piece of property
with permission, it then (in the guest's mind) becomes the guest's private
spot. The following year, he brings someone new, who later brings someone
else. Pretty soon there are ten people who think they have permission when
the landowner has given permission to only one person.
Another rule we live by is to share the bounty
with the landowner. We always offer them half of what we find. We've never
been told not to come back.
Back to your original question about there being
fewer mushrooms. The use of mesh bags such as our Shroom Sack or Larry Lonik's
Spore Boy is a relatively recent practice. For years mushroom hunters have
been using plastic or paper bags to gather mushrooms. They've also been
gathering the spores and taking them home to either rinse down the drain
or discard in the garbage. It makes much more sense to leave the spore in
the woods to perpetuate the patch. So, while past areas are diminished,
maybe by using mesh bags, we're creating new ones.
Another reason you're not finding as many as you
used to is that 40 to 50 years ago the Dutch Elm Disease made its appearance.
With all the elms dying, morel hunters had a field day (for several years).
We may never see harvests such as then again.
Sorry for the lenghthy disertation, but it's important
information and hope this helps, Tom
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 18:09:48 -0700 (PDT). Subject: Greys are up ?
Hey Tom, Here is a photo of some small greys I found today in fayette
co. Season is moving on well here, I found 164 blacks also today. Some
of them were showing a little age- TO MY SURPRISE!! Good luck everybody!!!!
BARTMAN
From: Tntscan. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 00:38:23 EDT. Subject: where
to hunt. i live in marion ill.which is in williamson county. i'm
new to the area and have no idea where to hunt. i love morels and have missed
2 years of them.if someone knows where to hunt them here please let me know.
went out today and found none. really desperate to find some.
04/14/03 Phone report: Mike H. of Kickapoo, IL phoned to say that
he and the boys found some small greys in Peoria County today.
From: SFR. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 22:18:39 EDT. Subject: Fayette Co.,
Otego Twp. found 6 small blacks on Thurs. & 4 brand new whites on
Fri. Walked 2 1/2 hrs both days. Plenty of warm weather. Need rain. Could
be a great season.
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 23:30:43 EDT. Subject: Illinois Sighting. Neil
and Craig from Athens, IL in Menard county have found our 1st
grey's of the year. The "May-Apple" theory has seemed to apply
so far in helping us locate the shrooms. We found over a dozen today and
marked a few other patches where we spied some the size of thumbnails. As
long as no poachers come by, we'll be alright. For now we've at least got
enough for a taste. Supposed to be 85 degrees tomorrow -- look out, they're
going to be popping all over the place...
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 21:13:18 -0500. Subject: sighting. Went out on
Monday and found 30 greys!!! Will be sending plenty more sightings within
the next few weeks. Big Sal and CL. Edwardsville, IL
Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 11:35:26 -0500. Subject: Springin' Up. Hey all,
I found 87 on the 9th and 75 on the 10th. St. Clair Co. The 75 were
a new patch I found, always cool. Still seems early as it is a long walk
between findings. Bob R.
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 11:27:08 -0500. Subject: morels. April 15, 2004.
Been finding 15 to 25 grays every outing till today. Im hunting in perry
co. Il. need a good rain to really turn them on here. Looks like wed.
will be the day of rain so good friday indeed will be a good friday. Good
luck to all. Morelhunter18
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003 08:22:30 -0500. Subject: Found the first "small"
gray morel! Hi to all the dedicated shroomers from Richland County, IL..
This year has been an unusual hunting experience. Usually our family woods
can be predicted from the first black morel then the peckerheads,whites
next and finally the gray morels. Unless the deer have learned to tip toe
I am finding the last expected shroom, first! I really enjoyed this mushroom
sight. Good luck to everyone. K.L.
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003 13:10:27 -0500. Morel Sighting. Found twenty morels
near Belleville, Illinois, Wednesday, April 15, 2003. Conditions
are very warm and dry, but rain is predicted for today and for tomorrow.
Mike
From: Sally. Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Hello from Kickapoo.
Mike wanted to say HI! and confirm the Morel Mania date. We are hoping to
come up for the day. No First Communion's this year. I see that you logged
in Mike and the boys' sighting in Peoria County. I witness the event
and it was very special. Mike (of course) saw the first one, then Josh (10)
saw his own grey one, and then Matt (7) saw his very own tiny one. All three
guys (in a matter of seconds) found their own morel. I guess it is true
that the acorn doesn't fall far from the oak tree (or should we say fungi
spores don't drift to far from the morel).
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Annual Southern Illinois Morel
Hunt April 12-16th. This was the best year ever!!! Almost all old wives
tales were found true - we found them on ridges & on bottoms, under
elms, ashes, sycamores and dead trees. Oaks were just starting to leaf out
and may apples were up and blooming. We probably picked about 700-800 mushrooms,
easily over 15 pounds! We found all species of morels - half frees, blacks,
little deliciosas, big grays and yellows. Blacks were everywhere we looked
including places we regularly hunt and have never found them before. We
did most of our hunting in Union and Jackson Counties but did get some in
Perry County, too. The only old wives tale that we did not find to
be true was that you need rain to find morels - we found fresh ones everyday
everywhere we looked and it bone dry, high-fire risk dry in Southern Illinois
right now. The region desperately needs rain but so does Chicago, so don't
believe that rain absolutely has to happen for morels to be there in any
numbers. My husband built portable drying racks for our trip and they were
on the driveway when I got home to pack up! They worked just great, so most
of our beauties were already dried and ready for storage by the time we
got home (He had a big bow on those racks and I ran in the house to tell
him how much I loved him when I saw them there! He is a keeper, for sure;).
On a much sadder note, we both were heartbroken to read about Larry Lonik
this morning. We met Larry at Trail of Tears Lodge and hunted with him for
a couple of days after the Morel Heaven Weekend that year. Every time we
saw him afterwards, he was so genuinely happy to see us and was just an
absolute dear person, truly one of those characters that God broke the mold
for afterwards (ya'll know the type, everybody is blessed to have a few
in their lives). Larry taught us a lot about mushroom hunting and we never
would have come home with this many 'shrooms without his valuable insight
nor would we ever continue to find new places to hunt without his wisdom
imparted. My husband and I will miss him greatly and we will always keep
on hunting with Larry in our hearts and his wisdom on our fingertips. Still
looking forward to the Northern Illinois season, just with some teary eyes
and heavier hearts.....Mama Doe and Unkle Korpse
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: MORELS!!! Today the 17th of April my
husband and myself went out to our favorite hunting grounds we found 153
total in less than 2 hours.My husband being the awesome hunter he is found
112 of them they were everywhere!!!!!smallest being 1/8" upto 4"
all greys Montgomery county,Illinois.Can hardly wait until tomorrow.Happy
Hunting Randy and Marsha
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: morels found. 4-17-03 We found 6 small
greys today. We need some heat to get them to really pop! We found them
in Iroquois County 6 miles from Indiana state line. See ya in Magnolia
for the big hunt! The Pentecosts
From: Barry. Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels near Pinckneyville.
My son and I found about 100 greys and yellows. We may have been a day or
two early though. We got a decent amount of rain on Wednesday, so if we
get some warm weather, they SHOULD be everywhere. One thing I've noticed
about the 'shrooms in Pinckneyville. They are loaded with microscopic
bugs! They are a pain in the butt to clean! Looking forward to a big weekend!
From: Michael. Date: Tue, 2 Apr 2002. Subject: grey morels. greetings
from Springfield, Ill.! I found my first greys yesterday. 27, to
be exact. They were VERY small. The rain was a good thing. Hope it gives
them some added size in the next few days.
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: Mushroom, one. Regrets to Larry's family!!
Such a sad day! First mushroom found by our group. Peoria County,
One little guy, less than an inch. We found it in a new spot by an old apple
tree. Usually our first found are by elms. Quite the surprise, happy hunting.
The season has begun! TRES
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: Morel Report. Hello, just reporting
that I found my first 109 Morel's of the season in 2 hours yesterday the
18th... In Madison county IL in Edwardsville.. Mostly greys, but
a few nice blacks in the mix. Looks like weather is gonna be great this
weekend, good luck fellow hunters!! Later, Aaron
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: Found 26 small little grey Morels. Just
wanted to report that we found 26 small little grey morels in Tazewell
County, Illinois 4/19/03. We found them mostly on the South sides of
trees in moss area. Largest measured 2 inches, smallest 1/2 inch. Were very
hard to find. Brad.
From: Chris. Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: IL Sighting. Went
out and found 43 greys and yellows on Friday. We went back out on Saturday
and found blacks, greys, and a yellow. The total came to 125 on Saturday.
I have enclosed a picture of Saturday's find. Big Sal, Fat, and Yellow
Smelly. Mattoon, IL
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: Liability and Illinois Landowners. First
let me express my deepest sympathy. I was fortunate enough to have shared
a couple of pops with Tree a few years back in Magnolia. Such a fine and
knowledgable man he was. He will be greatly missed, but the legacy he leaves
towers over even his own physical stature. Disclaimer: I am not an attorney
(nor do i appreciate many). Fact is, if a landowner allows you to enter
his property for recreational purposes, the duty of care owed to you is
no more than that owed to a tresspasser. Check it out: http://dnr.state.il.us/Law3/laws4landowners.htm
The DNR will mail you a small pamphlet which can explain the Act to landowners(an
extremely valuable tool in my experience)-the address is at the bottom of
the linked page. No morels up this way yet, but i think i smell one... Bugs,
Kane County
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: Re: The Mushroom Man. Reading my e-mail
Sunday night. Really a shocker! Sent Maggie Rogers a short informational
message. She and I would appreciate any additional information. I'm heading
for the woods. Gray esculenta are fruiting around some elms and ash in central
Illinois. Got about 2.5 lbs yesterday. Darrell
From: rburton1586 Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: morels in cass
county. Hey Tom......Found about 48 today (4-20) in cass county Illinois.
Mostly grey....but a few yellows. Nice mess for first outing!! I'm sure
I'll pick 'em by the pound by weeks end !!!!! Good luck shroomrs!
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: Morel hunting. Great day for mushroom
hunting yesterday 21 April, 2003 in Eastern Shelby county. The weather was
overcast and cool, nevertheless a friend and myself hauled in a 4 gallons
of good size greys and yellows in about 3 hours. We noticed that a few had
started to dry up in the tops. All in all it was a great hunt!!! John
Christian Co. IL
Firebirdlvr. Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: morels. In Washington,
IL , I found about 20-30 small greys yesterday (4/21/03). it was cold,
with scattered rain and windy, but worthwhile. also 2-( one inch) yellows.
Happy hunting :)
Josh found 12 little morels on Monday the 21st in central Illinois.
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: McHenry County Illinois. I live in McHenry
County, Illinois, and was wondering if anyone hunts Morels around here.
My dad is from southern Indiana, and I was first introduced to morels when
I was a child hunting them in Terre Haute, Indiana. I still go there to
visit my aunt around Easter every year, and get a taste for the hunt then,
(she lives in the woods which has very good isolated spots). I've lived
near Chicago all my life and have yet to meet anyone who's ever hunted a
morel around this area. Do they exist around here? Please help me out, is
there any info about this, and when they begin to sprout. Thanks, David
C
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: A big haul. Tom, My regrets for not
meeting up with you during the Trail of Tears festival April 19. I know
I said I'd be there, but I do have a good excuse for giving you the slip.
I personally picked over 1,000 morels in Jackson County that day, not including
the morels I graciously allowed a couple of guests to haul out of the woods
after they tagged along with me. (People think I never share my hotspots;
but I do make exceptions.) I was exhausted by day's end and decided I shouldn't
drive the 25 miles to Jonesboro. I figured you'd understand. It had truly
been a fine day of picking, but tiresome as well. Collecting all of those
morels on hands and knees all day, rising up and down too many times--as
if I had wandered into a mercilessly long Catholic mass--actually became
grueling work. Nonetheless, it's pretty good work, if you can get it. And
I suppose more than a few readers would be willing to suffer the deeply
euphoric fatigue one gets after picking so many morels in one day. In fact,
I shook off my aches and returned for another round of picking on the following
afternoon. By the end of that second day, with my head swimming as I staggered
out of the woods, I uttered the unthinkable: "I don't ever want to
see another morel," I whispered hoarsely as the sun set on Easter Sunday.
"No more." I was back to my senses the next day. Nearly all of
the morels collected April 19 and 20 were the petite Morchella deliciosa
variety, although there were also a smattering of M. esculentas and a couple
of dozen blacks on the hillsides. The season for black morels is basically
finished in southern Illinois, depending on what you're willing to eat.
Most of the specimens of that species are crumbly and water-logged now.
But a few late-bloomers still are worth collecting and actually look fine.
The condition of the M. deliciosas, on the other hand, was prime overall.
Firm stems. Fresh. But, based on experience, a few warm days can reverse
that appraisal. If anyone in southern Illinois hasn't looked for
morels yet this season, they'd better hurry. Or move north. See you in Magnolia
May 3. Joe M.
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: morels in ramsey. hi its brandon
from marseilles il its so dry here its worse than ever will it rain
and warm up? if not there wont be any shrooms to pick up here. lets hope
it rains alot. i had to drive south 3 hours to vandalia to my friends
last weekend to find a couple dozen. still a little early down there. good
luck!
From: Linda R. Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: First Sightings.
Today in Quincy IL, I found 35 gray mushrooms around an oak tree.
Looks like a good season so far, I hope I have a better day tomorrow.
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: morel,S Grafton IL. Four of us
went hunting last Friday and Saturday on the river near the Wild Goose.
We found a over a hundred Pounds. I know it sounds like BS,but it has been
documented and will be in the local paper. Pictured Left to Right AJ ,Garry
R ,Bob and Sharon B . Jonboat
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: findings Illinois. April 22 - found
a few yellows and a half-cap near Edwardsville, IL; they were somewhat
old (two to four days). Hopefully, more will follow with some warm weather.
Have heard that near Carlinville, IL, many, many large ones have been found
in the last couple of days. Ross
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: mushrooms. J and C want to report
finding some small greys and a few larger yellows south of Havana
on April 23, 2003. The poison ivy is not very big yet, but the ticks are
plentiful. Insect repellent doesn't faze them.
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: Greys. I found my first greys yesterday.
Whoohoo! You know what I'll be doing in the next month or so!!!! 11 of them
within 1hr. about 6:30pm. It was in McLean county. from Bloomington!
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: morel finds. 8 #s today 7#s yesterday greys
but mostly yellows. some growing six connected it`s beautiful out there---grasslands
under elm, syramore, oak and ash---and especially near streams. Alton,
Ill Morelli Nellie and Keith
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 08:08:24 EDT. Subject: DewittMushrooms. Sorry
to hear of Larry's passing. Did have the opportunity to meet him a few years
back. My prayers to his family and friends.. Found 80 greys (4/20) Easter
morning In Dewitt County. Size ranged from very small up to 3 inches..
Love your site. Bryan - Bloomington
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 15:46:50 -0500. Subject: Morel Sighting. Found
three yellow morels about two inches each widely separated from each other
under a dead elm on a southeast facing slope near the Kankakee river
at the southern tip of Will county in Illinois.
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 07:57:20 EDT. Subject: 4/25/03 Spring Valley
Il. Finally after 10 days of looking we found the little guys barely
poking their heads out of the moss on a west slope of a ravine. Left
them to grow and be biggies. Really need rain bad it very dry everywhere
we checked. From Bub,Stumpy and the Midget
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 05:50:47 -0400. Subject: sighting in grundy
co. Found approx. 3 doz. Small grays Wednesday (April 23rd). the biggest
being around 2 ". woods are extremely dry, practically "kicking
up dust" while walking through. We need rain bad!! Wonder if I beat
Rat in finding the first ones up here this year? Good luck all. Brian
K.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 08:31:24 -0500 (CDT). Subject: Illinois Sighting.
Went out on Saturday, April 26, with 10 other members of the Illinois Mycological
Association for a foray in Will County Illinois. The grays were just
starting, and we picked about 75 small ones. Rain is definitely needed here.
Lots of Verpa conica, too. John D.
Hi Tom, I just got home from one of my daily jaunts this time of year,
found about 2 1/2 #. I was surprised to find a few black shrooms in this
patch ,this late. I have never hunted the fall morels, but I do have a friend
who fall turkey hunts who has found them. I have known him most all my life
and he has never told me any thing but the truth. Tony is my best friend
and has turkey hunted spring and fall for around 20 years in IL. and surrounding
states. I know he has told me of at least one spot in Shawnee Forest
that he has found them. If it is OK with Tony, and you if you would like,
I will put you directly in touch with him. I will call him this weekend
and get his thoughts on the matter. James C.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 21:24:49 -0500. Subject: marseilles, il.
From: Mater1. Sunday April 27 Marseilles, IL. Found my first morels
today along the I-M Canal...not many, but it's a start. Timber is
real dry.
From: MICHAEL D M. Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 22:14:47 -0500. greetings
from SPRINGFIELD, IL Yesterday (26th) picked POUNDS of morels. Everyone
was out, but they were very easy to find. Greys and yellows, and all good
size. Today (27th) the woods seemed mostly picked over. Did not find that
many. Does anyone know, is this the last weekend for morels in our area?
Do we have to head up north now? You'll have to check
with two people - Mother Nature and Father Time. It all depends on the combination
of moisture and heat.
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003. Subject: Illinois morels. These
(and a lot more) were found April 26 in Morgan Co. Also found a similar
mess in Macoupin Co. on April 23. Thanks, Robert
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 09:13:08 -0700 (PDT). Subject: Great Year in Fayette
County. Hey Tom, It has been a fantastic year for those of us here in
Fayette Co. Il..I have spent the majority of the last two weeks picking
& cleaning (not to mention freezing!!!) morels.I made two trips to the
same timber last week on back to back days (since it got dark on me the
first day) I found six pounds of yellows the first day and returned to pick
another sixteen+ pounds the second.It seems this year is one of those years
that I have more places to hunt than I have time! Not a bad problem to have
I guess! I have had a hard time finding the free time to even sit down long
enough to get an e-mail out, so while I'm here I want to thank you and all
those who participate in putting together, maintaining, and supporting the
use of this page,as it is a valued asset to those of us who truely enjoy
this sport.I'm sending a photo of the most perfect find I have made in several
years,these morels were so fresh they were still colorless when I picked
them.Thanks again Tom. BARTMAN
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 11:58:35 -0500. Subject: sightings. Illinois -
found a good number of fresh, yellow morels, some large, near Godfrey,
on 4/26/03. Maybe the season is not over yet! - Ross
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: EXCELLENT DAY FOR SHROONIN.
Saturday the 26th was one of those memorable hunting days. Started out kinda
slow but at the end we were walking out with about 250 good size yellows
and some smaller greys. In addition, I found a set of sheds (antlers) 11
pt all total and my buddy came out with some arrowheads, nut rocks, and
an arrow straightner. The best part was eating those tasty morels and gloating
on our finds. Now thats what I call a day to remember. John Christian
Co. IL
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: sighting. Found 45 greys around recently
deceased elm in sunny spot on 4/27. In Kickapoo area of Peoria County.
New spot. Old faithful is a bit more shady and shrooms not up there yet.
Ate them sauteed in butter with scrambled eggs. Phil
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 10:14:26 -0500. Subject: knox county il.
4-26-3 knox county ill. we found our first mess of grays , 40 in all ,up
to 1.5 inches.found them in the woods, by a tree. we need more sun.
going to peoria county 2day. good picking my friends, from gr8tful1
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003 13:26:08 -0500. Subject: Morels. Found 15 morels
near Belleville, Illinois, 4 /16/03. One worth a picture, Mike
From: Robyn G. Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003 22:43:09 -0500. Subject:
Tazewell County Sighting. Found three morels all less than 4cm in
size on a south facing hill in a heavily wooded area nestled in a bunch
of dead leaves. All three were grey in color.
Date: Sun, 04 May 2003 12:02:17 -0500. Subject: Illinois morels. I found
three small yellows today by a fallen red elm near Rantoul, IL (Champaign
county). These are the first I've found this year. Maybe the season
is a bit late this year in east central Illinois? Good Luck, Zack W.
MAGNOLIA REPORT
05/08/03: I finally got into the woods for serious
hunting on Tuesday, 05-06-03. Found about 2.5 lbs of yellows scattered on
west facing slopes of the Illinois River Valley. Found another 2.5 lbs
of 1-3" greys within 20 feet of a dead elm on a north facing slope.
We're hearing and seeing all kinds of reports that lead us to believe we're
in a banner season. Tom
From: MIKE. Date: Mon, 05 May 2003. Subject: Cinco De Mayo Morels.
Never say it's too late. In Macon county (Illinois) I found over
30 giant yellows. Here's a few of them. They're fresh!!!! Plus, they were
walking distance to my house. I can hear the pan sizzling now....Great sight,
see you next year
Date: Fri, 09 May 2003 09:27:58 -0500. Subject: A GOOD DAY TO HUNT. Pic's
of our success!!!! John and Don Christian Co. IL
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 13:33:07 -0500. Subject: Report. Virgin hunter
has success. Picked a dozen grays after dark with 11 year old son. Been
scouting S Cook County hard for the past two weeks for Ash trees
but none found. All found last night near dead Elms with bark mostly
intact. Hope to find more this weekend. Thanks to your posters and you
for information that helped us be successful. Keith A.
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 06:35:46 -0500. Subject: Morels are up in northern
illinois. From somewhere near Pecatonica in northern illinois.
Morels are up. I picked about a pound yesterday 5/9/03. All were greys from
1" to 3" tall. We have had 4" of rain in the last 12 days,
so the moisture is here, we just need it to stay warm at night. Looks like
this week & next week will be the prime season. Kind of late this year.
Also went to Peoria last friday 5/2/03 & picked a 4 pound bag
of mixed yellow & greys. Good luck to everyone from SPONGE in Pecatonica.
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 22:56:44 EDT. Subject: report. Dear Tom: Illinois:southern
Cook County-yes Virginia there are morels in those woods. Report from
yesterday didn't list state-sorry! Today, in 2 1/2 hours my eleven year
old and I picked 113 yellows from 1 1/2" to 7" and wide. Fifteen
under one tree! When I get pictures will e-mail for later posting.
Again thanks to those who post and you for providing help to the former
virgin. Keith A.
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 23:39:34 -0500. Hey guys n' gals fresh from quad
city area may, 10th found 15 lbs by 9:00 am grey's as big as soft balls
yellows as big as small children , probably 100 too burnt to pick. one more
week before ground cover is too thick I think maybe not ? cool web site
thanks for putting it out . good luck shroom heads, slim from east moline
IL. R.I.P. LARRY . P.S. I weighed my shrooms in my spore sack on a digital
fish scale very accurate thanks for the sack
Date: Thu, 1 May 2003 00:56:47 -0500. Subject: Sighting: Rock Island
County, IL. Randy and Ron found 21 grays on the top of East facing
slopes, around brush piles and dead Elms. We spotted some on North
facing slopes but will go back to get them after they plump-up a little
more. We got our mushroom-eyes back. Looking forward to the Championship
hunt. I can't wait to see 500-some people scramble into the woods, awesome.
Best Regards, Ron S.
Date: Sat, 3 May 2003 22:47:26 EDT. Subject: (no subject). The day started
out slower than I had hoped but I ended up picking about 30 mushrooms and
saw around 200. The only reason I only picked 30 was because I wasn't sure
about the "peckerhead" mushrooms. By the end of the day I had
walked out of the woods with 30 mushrooms, a huge five point shed (just
one antler), and a whole deer skull with four points. Brandon, East Peoria,
IL.
From: Angie. Date: Wed, 7 May 2003 23:12:06 EDT. Subject: Morels
in IL. In Mercer County between Reynolds and Matherville. About 50
greys and yellows. YUM!
From: Chris K. Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: Morels in Winnebago
County. (05/15/2003) My father introduced me to Morel hunting when I
was 8 years old and my love for the Morel and being outside is stronger
than ever 28 years later. Found 25 yellow morels South of Pecatonica
and a combination of 82 greys & yellows North of Pecatonica.
I love this time of year. Whitcomb
Date: Sat, 17 May 2003. Subject: morels. 17 May 03, Lansing area,
Got about 2 1/2 pounds of mostly yellows today. Most 3-4 inches, some very
nice larger ones. Under dead elms with mayapples around them and pretty
damp. Great season here so far. CLS
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 09:17:17 -0500. Subject: Success :-) Thanks a
lot Tom and Vickie for another great event in Magnolia! With the information
gleaned from the speakers on friday nights doins and talking with some other
fellow maniacs during the hunt Sat. I gotta admit I learned enough to find
27 lbs. in the last two days. Mostly yellows some greys and a smattering
of half-tops. Like you allready alluded to,it IS a banner year. My daughter
and I got in as walk-ons this year and found shrooms, mostly briar patches
though... Anyway after 33 years of shroomin i thought I knew it all; untill
I came to to best festival in the country. See you next year. Oh yeah, know
anyone that wants to buy any fresh morels? I'm goin out again today after
I write this and check another 10 acres. Tim in West Brooklyn, Illinois.
5/18/03
Date: Sun, 25 May 2003 07:23:27 -0500. Subject: morels. This is SPONGE
again, from somewhere near Pecatonica. On 5/23/03 I went roadhunting
& found the biggest shrooms of the year. 14 pounds in about 2 hours.
One shroom had a stem that weighed 7/8 of a pound!!!!! All were starting
to get old, but i picked them anyway. Some were 12" tall. Also got
some nice greys & fresh yellows from the north side of the ditch. The
year is pretty much over now. Got about 30 pounds total for the year. Now
for the long wait till next year. Thanks for the site & will post again
next year.
Indiana:
Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2003 20:48:29 -0500. Ft. Wayne, IN, mushroom
hunter seeking other local hunters. Hello all mushroom hunters, With 4 very
warm days,Friday-Sat-Sun-Monday here in the "Fort" will mushrooms
pop up on Tuesday?? Or is it still way too early for the little critters
to come up?? Chris
From: Alan W. Date: Wed, 19 Mar 2003 13:00:24 -0500. Subject:
Fort Wayne Indiana Morels. I see that there is another Morel hunter
in Fort Wayne by the post here. Chris, I too live in Fort Wayne and it is
still too early to hunt them here. When hunting early in the season try
Ouabache State Park 45 min to the south of Fort Wayne. When hunting
late in the season try Chain O Lakes State Park 45 min to the North.
In the midst of the season here they can often be found in the wooded
areas on and around Canterbury Green of all places! It _IS 100% LEGAL_
to hunt mushrooms in the state parks in Indiana. If you get skunked buy
some at Hilger's Farm Market. If you find a bunch, sell them to Hilger's
Farm Market :)
Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. Subject: a note for Indiana. >From
jal-I am a Wisconsin mushroom hunter who will be in southeast Indiana
for a few days around April 12th. I assume since you are much
further south, I might be able to find some there by then. I know in
Wisconsin I have great luck by dead elms or old orchards. Does the same
apply to the area southeast of Indianapolis, about 30 -60 minutes from Cincinnati?
Any tips for exploring in a new area would be appreciated. jl
From: chad w. Date: Thu, 3 Apr 2003 08:30:50 -0500 Subject: Indiana
mushrooms. For those posting about Indiana mushrooms. I found a few small
ones in Dearborn County on Thursday4/3/2003. I have a spot where
they grow through the gravel in the side of the road. I'm laid up
from surgery, so I spot 'em from the car then send my brother to shag 'em
down(ooohhh I hate working with old peope ;^) ) To Wisconsin hunter.
Try Versailles State Park in southern Indiana. Look near elm trees. Both
dead and alive. Godd luck!!!
Date: Fri, 4 Apr 2003 18:17:09 -0800 (PST). Subject: indiana morels..
They are here at last!!!!!30 small grey's found in southern ind.on
4/3/2003, these extra warm days have helped in getting those lovely mushrooms
up and start the season with early finds.To jal from wis. try any
state park or if your close to Muscatatuck Wildlife Refuge on U.S.Hwy
50 near seymour or try Camp Atterury on the state park side near Edinburgh
has lots of hunting areas. happy hunting jim
Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 13:47:01 -0400. Subject: 2003 Sightings. Park
CO. Indiana 42 small Brown\Black .... Cold nights ahead. No mushrooms
in Southern Indiana ....Lollyshroom
From: Steve. Date: Wed, 9 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels. Help!!! Southern
(Warrick) southern Indiana ....Lollyshroom where in Southern
Indiana? can I find morels..........
Subject: small whites. 4/8/2003. Found three small white morel in Gibson
Co. Indiana Tuesday afternoon, along with one small "horse-tail".
This weekend we'll be eating good!. Found some very large "False Morel"
on 4/7/2003. Dave Might Gibson Co Indiana
From: Steve. Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Where do the black morels
popup in Southern Indian?????????????Lollyshroom! i.e. Evansville
Booneville ....
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 07:26:01 -0600. Subject: Indiana Mushrooms. Found
4 small blacks on 4/6 in Park County, cold weather set in and found
nothing more til the 13th. My daughter and I found 3 pounds on the 13th
in Park county. Some were almost 3" tall. These were big for
grays, but tasted real good!!!!!!!! Mike.
From: Rick S. Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003 14:19:32 -0500. Subject:
Indiana Sighting. I found 59 tall blacks in West Central Indiana, South
of Cayuga on Tuesday, April 15. Should be a lot more if we get some
rain soon.
From: bsparks. Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Indiana blacks.
Wednesday April 17, Central Indiana near Martinsville Found
7 nice blacks Dad - 2 Stew the Shroomhound - 5. The season is ready to bust
wide open. Used our usual mushroom gauge - Dogwood in front yard started
blooming on Tuesday, time to hit the woods.
From: The Thiemans Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: Indiana report. Spent
some time near Brookville Lake 4/18 with no luck. Area we hunted
much too dry. Will wait for rain before we try again.
From: James N. Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 03:14:12 -0500. Subject:
black and grey mushrooms. find on 4/11/03 in Bartholomew county....even
in the cool weather i found 5 med. size blk.and 3 small grey growing on
a hill facing southeast in some fallen elms .hoping for warmer weather here....still
a little early in the season but can always find a friend to help search
........hoping to see some yellow and white sponges soon .
From: M Line Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. My husband Mel is an avid
hunter of morels,as of Apr.18,he has found 834.He hunts in the southern
part of Indiana,Orange Co.He is often called by others to see if he's
found any.That way,they know their up.He does'nt eat them,so he gives them
all away. He makes alot of people happy.We are coming,for the first time
to the Morel Mania,in Magnolia.See you there.
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Southwest Indiana. Sunday, April
13 --- Found one lone gray morel, slightly scraggly looking, atop a Warrick
County spoil bank. Now, I'm hungry! Jim
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: hello. Found about 50 Morchella Semilibera
(Half Free morel) around and under honeysuckle bushes in the Eagle Creek
park area on 04/23/03. Most were fresh some about a week old. No blacks
or grays to be found. We are supposed to get some rain this week and I am
hoping this will bring them on. Seems like the morels are running later
this season? Gonna try again this weekend. UKLemm this is in Indianapolis,
Ind area
From: Dennis C. Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. I went looking in Logansport
Indiana. No luck yet. Very very dry. Not warm enough either.
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 23:14:18 -0500. Subject: Indiana morels. Here
in Lafayette Indiana I started hearing of folks finding small greys.
and blacks on or about Easter. More blacks than most years, and later. Today,
4-24 a friend and I found two dozen mostly greys with some small. yellows
about halfway between I-70 and I-74. We poked around for a. little over
an hour, didn't have time to reach the area we wanted to hunt... It's time,
get out there! Mike
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 10:59:34 EDT. Subject: Found grey morels. Tom,
We found 5 small grey morels in Henry County, IN in our yard under
the pine trees on 4-26-2003. Hope to find more when we get to the woods.
CLH
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 23:47:56 EDT. Subject: mushrooms. Went to some
of my old spots on 04/27/03 on the west side of Indy in Eagle Creek
went in the am and found 45 grays and 15 snake heads. Most of the grays
were about 1 - 2 inches tall found a few large ones, also some that were
almost white in color. I went again in the afternoon this time with the
kids and found another 25 in about an hour. Most were around tulip trees
and mayapple patches. Nothing like taking the young folk on a successful
hunt. I love this time of year! cant wait to fry up some shrooms. UKLemm
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 00:02:01 EDT. Subject: Southwest Indiana.
A little better luck in the spoil banks of Warrick County this week;
a half dozen decent-sized yellows earlier in the week, and today (4/27)
14 or 15 yellows, each 4"-6" high, most still pretty firm &
fresh. Have only had about an hour to an hour and a half to hunt each day.
Not quite as much luck hunting in nearby hardwood forest in Vanderburgh
County this same week. Jim
Mansfield Report: We were at the Mansfield, IN
Festival over the weekend (which why the Sightings Page" updates have
been delayed. We understand they sold more than 600 packages of fresh morels
on Saturday alone. I talked to sellers that had brought them in from IL,
OH, and KS.
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003. Subject: let the games begin. Hello fellow shroomers
, found several greys and a couple of very small yellows up in northeast
Indiana on 4/29&30 yeehaaaaa!!! good luck to all..T-bone
From: tom j. Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003 15:08:27 -0500. Subject: muncie,
IN, morel maniac. My brother and I just got back from hunting the muncie,
IN area, and had the best time and find I can remember in along time.
We only hunted around 3 hrs, and found over 200 yellow morels, at least
75 grays, 150 blacks, lots of snake heads too, oh and 1 elephant ear. Life
is good, I'am in morel heaven. What a great time of year !!!!!!!!!!!!
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003 14:40:55 -0500 (Central Daylight Time). Subject:
Mushrooms. Found on April 22 in Clay County, Center Point, IN a few
4 inch white morrels, a few small grays and a few small black morrells.
Think I got somebody else's leftovers. Bev
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003. Subject: Northern IN 'shrooms. We had our Annual
Family Mushroom Hunting Contest & Campout Weekend on May 3 & 4th
in Southeastern Kosciusko County. A total of 132 were found. There
was a variety of grays and yellows with a few spikes. The "Biggest"
(5" high) & "Most" (47) found awards went to Brother-in-law
Jerry. My 9 yr. old son Jesse found the "Smallest" (.485"
high) and "Weirdest" mushrooms. Everyone received a prize even
if they got skunked. McNut. Somewhere in Northern IN
From: Polander. Date: Thu, 1 May 2003 23:10:12 EDT. Subject: morels.
Found 400 greys 5/1/03 chain o lake state park .This weekend should
be great in nothern indiana. Lots of rain last two days.
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 17:42:38 -0400. Subject: NW Indiana report.
From Chicago - Took Mom on mother's day to a State park in NW Indiana.....
Been going there for 5 years and always found about 5 shrooms only. This
year we found 60. Average size about 4". Very fun and best season ever........LuganShroomer
Date: Tue, 20 May 2003 00:36:24 -0500. Subject: morel season. date:5/20/03
n.w.ind, the season seem's about over. had a great year my wife and
i found 327 morels about half yellows and half greys.we started hunting
about 4 years ago and are addicted. my wife has become a great schroomer
and finds more than i.already looking forward to next year.John and rose
Iowa:
Hi Tom, I was curious if you would be so kind as to place a link to my
message board on your site? I have created a message board for Iowa morel
hunters and would like to gain more exposure. It is at Iowa
Morel Message Board I have searched all over the web and have been
unable to locate an Iowa morel board. I think this would be beneficial to
other Iowans looking to get in contact with other shroomers in their state.
Thank You, Garry H.
From: mike. Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: ist sightings in Iowa.
4 of us went out 4/15 and found 4 lbs of mushrooms. biggest was only 2"
tall but they all taste good! the spot is south west Iowa along the missouri
river. Good luck and good hunting
From: cinder. Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: Sighting In Iowa!!
Hey in Norway,Iowa my cousin picked to Yellows at the cemetar 4/19/03
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: Iowa sightings! It is April 23rd, 2003
and my sister, Mother and I just got back from shrooming in central Iowa
and found 29 grays! They were from half an inch to an inch. We are so excited!
We thought we'd go out and practice for the Illinois State Mushroom Hunt
and are we ready now! Karen B. Ankeny, Iowa
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 12:05:14 -0500. Subject: Sighting Iowa. Found
six grey's the size of my thumbnail this morning-April 26. Johnson County
Iowa. It's going to be/is a late season here. Usually finding big yellows
by first weekend in May... Brad in Coralville.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 18:50:57 EDT. Subject: Morel Sightings. Iowa morels
I went out turkey hunting this morning april 27 and stumbled upon 150 greys
smallest 1/8 inch and the biggest about 4 inches! found a few that had already
dried too. This was in southern iowa near bedford. Matt
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003 02:28:24 EDT. Subject: sightings. Jim from
Iowa, found 50 small gray and about 10 2-4" yellows north Des
Moines area. know of 280 small grays east of Des moines and 236
one day and 180 next north west of Des Moines, also numerous 15-30
small grays, all 4-7 or 4-28.
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: Southern Iowa Morels.
Found 168 gray morels in southern Iowa! They were under dead elms
and locust and hedge trees! I think this will be a bumper year with all
the rain forecast for the next 4 days. The big yellows should be out by
next weekend. 4-28-03 Dave & Jane from Roland Iowa
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: Sightings. Jim from Iowa again
4-29-03 found 200 small-small yellows, biggest 2 1/2", 1/2 of them
smaller than 1". north of Des Moines. Can't wait for the rain
to stop and warm up to 70, this Thur. I hope, Hopefulley the yellows there
will be lots bigger. :)
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels found. April 29, Johnson County
Iowa. Found 500+ grays today and Three yellows. Brad & Tommy.
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003 21:11:10 EDT. Subject: Jerry Here
with sightings. Hey all you mushroomers, Iowa is at its prime.Lovin every
minute of it. Been out everyday since April 23rd. Found several grays 385
one day in 1 hour. Been down by Monroe Area not good this year for
me.Not as well as North of Des Moines.Can't wait until this week
is over more rain I hope. You all have fun see ya. Jerry From Nevada
Iowa
From: Brent. Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003. : Saylorville
morels. Found about a dozen greys in the Saylorville, IA area on
April 28th. Ranging in size from the eraser on a pencil to an inch. Just
a little more rain needed an a couple of days I think.
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003 21:02:41 -0500. Subject: Iowa sighting. Wednesday,
April 30, 2003......Finding abundant patches of grays from thumbnail size
to 3.5" in western Polk County outside of DesMoines. Getting
lots of rain this week, this could be an exceptional season this year for
this area. Amain
Date: Fri, 2 May 2003 00:13:38 EDT. Subject: Southern Iowa morels.
It rained 2 to 3 last night and that sprang up a new crop of gray as well
as yellow mushrooms! We found over 500 under dead red elms and birch.
We'll try again tomorrow as these morels were very fresh! 5/1/03 Good luck
hunting. Jane and Dave. Roland, Iowa
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003 08:54:26 -0500. Subject: huntin mushrooms. This
is Simo from Cedar Rapids, Iowa My buddy Sparky, and his son Wes
and I hunted down at the Amana's 4/31/03 and found 191. About 150
Gray's 30 or so Yellow's the rest Blacks.It really helped to get 2 1/2 inches
of rain the night before. I like your web site, Later. Simo
Date: Tue, 6 May 2003. Subject: RE: Sightings. Greetings: Here is our
lucrative weekend report. Saturday May 3, near Blencoe IA picked
3.7 lbs all types early gray, some yellow, and some fist-sized broadbased
morels with the dark colored tops. Sunday May 4, in the rain south of Sioux
City, IA on the river picked 2 lbs Sunday May 4, McCook S.D. 2 lbs more.
Monday, May 5, Vermillion S.D. 5 lbs Looks like a good year with more rain
coming and temps for 65 to 75. L.T. and Kaye
From: David. Date: Tue, 6 May 2003. Subject: Sighting. Morel Morales
reporting, 5/2/03 17 grays, 5/3/03 192 grays, 5/5/03 203 grays and they
appear to be getting bigger. I think I will go tomorrow (5/7/03). Blackhawk
Co. Iowa. Good luck to all, just waiting on big yella the morella. Morel
Morales
Date: Thu, 08 May 2003. Subject: Morels galore, Southeast Iowa is having
a bumper crop of morels this year. A report of 40 lbs picked in one day
made the local paper. Dale N. Farmington, Iowa
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 10:19:28 -0500. Subject: First timer finds one
in Iowa. This is my first year of hunting mushrooms and I struggled to find
any last week after hearing reports of loads of them being found. I found
lots of ticks. Anyhow, I gave it another shot last night and I found my
first morel, a big yellow one near Coralville Reservoir in Johnson County.
I found a few others that I thought were morels, but they ended up being
false thanks to another mushroomer that I ran into that showed them to me.
It was a really big thrill for me to finally find one. You can bet that
I found a new hobby. Thanks goes to you at morel mania for getting me started
with this. My shroom bag might of only had one morel, but I will always
remember the excitement of finding the first one. -Kent
Date: Fri, 2 May 2003 15:51:35 -0500. Ankeny, IA. 50021 (just North
of Des Moines) Name: JoeBuck. Hunted 3 spots today from 11:30
to 3:00 found 119 total 1st and 2nd spots all mid size Blondie's 3rd spot
a mix of grays and mid size Blondie's. All areas are just starting to produce.
South facing slopes and low spots were the best.
Date: Sun, 11 May 2003 22:14:31 -0500. Subject: Report for Guthrie
County in Iowa. Afternoon of May 9, 2003--Hopefully you get this image!
This is the best mushroom hunting I remember since I was a kid! Mom and
I went out and must have gotten 15 pounds! At least that is what it felt
like when we dragged ourselves out of the woods after a spectacular but
exhausting day! We found yellows and grays, big and small! This was Guthrie
County in Iowa before I forget to mention. And after the good rain this
weekend, at the same time and after we hunted these beauties, I do not think
they are done! This was all off of about 10 acres and I am sure we missed
quite a few! We found these beauties mostly in grassy areas but also
on a slope going down to the north we found a bunch of large grays.
We also found small grays on the west side of banks of leaves and mud!
So basically they were all over. We found some hiding in even tall grass
on the southside of the woods where there was fallen wood! They were
just plain thick! Sheryl and Judy
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 11:17:08 -0500. Subject: Beginner finally finds
a lot. I was the first timer that just found one the other day. I finally
got lucky and found 60 yellows near Amana on Saturday May 10th. There
were several veteran hunters in the same area that had boat loads of yellows.
Thanks to their helpful hints it made my day a lot better. -Kent
Date: Wed, 14 May 2003 03:59:55 EDT. Subject: Sightings. Tom, Jim
from Des Moines Iowa again. Bumper crop this year, finding more than
ever have in past.May 1st, 110 1 1/2"-4" small grays and medium
white colored inside Des Moines city limits, west central. May 2nd,
70 grays 1 1/2"-3" same place as before. May 5th, 100 grays and
yellows finally, 2"-4" same place. May 6th, 40 yellows, 2"',
south side of city. May 6th, 7th and 8th, Southwest Iowa, Ringold
Co. 6 Gal. freezer bags full and 1 plastic grocery sack full, 240 3"-5"
mostly yellows, some smaller grays, 120 Giant 5"-8" biggest Yellows,
everywhere, in Timber, south facing hills, on flats on top of hills,
most came from yards of lots around pond, next to pond where people had
stopped mowing and in open grass of yards, BUMPER, BUMPER Year. Have
not looked in any place where I didn't find them.
Date: Wed, 14 May 2003 04:07:10 EDT. Subject: Morel sightings. Hey Tom,
Jim again from Des Moines Iowa. They just keep coming, and getting
BIGGER. May 12th, North side of Des Moines same place I found 45
small grays around may 1st and then 80 Large Yellows, 5"-7" on
May 5th I forgot to tell ya about last e-mail. Anyway back to the 12th.
same place in trees big yellows before but farther up the timber North,
120 Huge Yellows some big grays. Grays 2"-4' Mostly Yellows 5"-7"
again. Best year in 20 Years. Thanks for posting, Great site. Jim
Date: Mon, 19 May 2003 08:32:53 -0500. Subject: They got some more. Here
is a follow-up on the same 10 acres in Guthrie County, Iowa that
mom and I hunted on. Two others went the day or so after we did and netted
50 pounds! We all know where I am taking my vacation next year!! :o) Sheryl
and Judy
From: D S. Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 10:40:11 -0500. Subject: mushroom
findings in iowa. Our lucky day on 5/18/03 in Palo Iowa. After 3
years of hunting, we finally got a nice batch of mushrooms. We walked all
day and found many large yellows with the largest being about a foot long,
most of them around dead elms. We went home with about 5 lbs of morels
that day. Yummy, can't wait to dive into them :) Our season is about to
end now, we figured that was our last day to hunt. Take care all you mushroomers......
Till next year.............
Kansas:
Date: Tue, 1 Apr 2003. mark p from kansas city couldn't
wait any longer went out today april 1st found 2 little grays about half
inch long they are up but just starting need more rain good luck to all
hope for a good year.
Date: Fri, 4 Apr 2003 12:45:03 -0600. Subject: Kansas Sighting. Tuesday
April 1, 2003 -- We found 7 little gray Morels in Southeastern Kansas.
Thursday April 3 we found 3 gray Morels. Cold weather heading our way hope
it does not mess up the season. kent
Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 11:29:38 -0700 (PDT). Subject: Early SEK(southeast
Kansas) Morels. Looked a few spots around april 2nd and only to find
60 or so false morels. But while getting to a crappie hole on friday april
4th a couple of buddies and I stumbled acrossed better than 6 pounds. We
quit counting at 350 of the small to large grey and yellow morels. These
are amoung the first reported in my area. Saturday night it turned cold,
but is rainy and in a couple of days should warm up resulting in a remarkable
year. Spark and digger
Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 20:37:51 -0500. Subject: SouthEastern Kansas.
April 7, 2003 David and I found 159 morels afterwork, Southeastern Kansas.
Nice signs, 3 patches with 30+ were found, one a new patch. Good news to
us cause last year finds were one's or pairs but no big patches. This could
be a good year... kent
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: SouthEastern Kansas. Tuesday,
April 8, 2003. Hit numbers in patches again tonight 120 mixed gray and yellow
Morels afterwork. Temperatures were cold with spitting snow, only 37 degrees
at 9:15pm. Looks like we may have a nice season ahead. ... kent
Date: Thu, 10 Apr 2003 22:01:10 -0500. Subject: Southeast Kansas,
April 10, 2003. Two (2) road spotters awards went out afterwork with many
"You walked by" awards awarded. "You walked by" awards
are shameful... nothing to be proud. Frist road spotter award went to shroomsidekick,
he got the "MasterShroomer" this year award too. 102 tonight,
.. kent
From: Lois C. Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 16:11:15 -0500. Subject:
Newfound Mushroom Heaven!! Date:Sun. April 13th, Southwestern Sedgwick
County, Kansas. My mom and I found 46 small to medium yellows. One lonely
black one. First one spotted from the roadside. After that found 3 nice
patches beneath the leaves. Hopefully with the next rain it will be our
newfound Mushroom Heaven.
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 22:38:09 -0500. Subject: Good Night -- SouthEastern
Kansas. Monday, April 14, 2003... 437 Morels in SouthEastern Kansas.
RoadSpot had 300+... took 3 people 30 minutes to pick, it was fun!
36 found Friday, April 11. We did not hunt Saturday or Sunday, prime time
is about to start. ..kent
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 06:06:09 -0500. Subject: Morels Found. April,
14, 2003. Morels found in Southeast Kansas. Had to take the day off
work on Monday to check my favorite spots. Found 210 morels. Mostly
little blacks and a few whites. Rain this week will make the woods explode.
Happy hunting!! Wolfie.
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 06:52:57 -0500. Subject: early find. Paul in
NE KS (Jackson Co.) found 6 small shrooms next to the KS river
on the 10th. Kind of dry. Its been hot so more should be up. All fruit trees
are in full bloom. We could use some rain to get into full swing.
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 10:15:40 -0500. Subject: South Central Kansas.
Monday April 14th, found nearly 100 yellows, no grays, near Harper, Kansas.
The high temperatures have scorched the tops of the mushroom. Also came
across numerous false morels. We're expecting rain today. I'll be out tomorrow.
Mark R.
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 16:43:50 -0500. Subject: Miami County, KS.
My sisters and I went mushroom hunting this morning (April 12th) and found
about 35 altogether. Most were very small, but it is early and we need more
rain. We were rather surprised to find any at all! Tina, my co-worker and
fellow competitive mushroom hunter, will never believe me. Wait until I
get the pictures developed! Mary
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003 07:28:19 -0500. Subject: another find. Paul
in NE KS. (Jackson Co.) found 18 medium sized shrooms yesterday in the
same place where we found some on the 10th. All were dry and some had to
be thrown away. We got an half inch of rain last night so they should be
everywhere anytime.
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 21:08:40 -0500. Subject: SouthEastern Kansas.
Tax day...April 15, 2003. 117 Morels found after work tonight. Rain heading
our way... could be a great weekend for shrooms... kent
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003. Subject: morels in kansas. 4-17-03 Me and my
daughter went out today and found 7 small morels. We didn't spend but about
30 minutes out in the woods in our back yard in Northeastern Kansas.
The temperature was about high 60 and we got have had light rains for the
past couple of days. Hope to find more tomorrow and this weekend. Thanks...Laurie
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: SouthEastern Kansas. Friday,
April 18, 2003 155 Morels today. We did not hunt Wednesday or Thursday...
kent
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: More Morels. Saturday, April 19, 2003.
SouthEastern Kansas.. 144 Morels today. Rain last night help lots...
more rain today and tonight... kent
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: Southeastern Kansas. Saturday
- 4-19-03. Takes a real Morel Maniac to hunt mushrooms in a thunderstorm
in Southeast Kansas during tornado season. But, here I am. Found 150 morels
in a rainstorm. Mostly whites, a few giants. Going back today (Easter) to
find more. I'd rather hunt for morels than eggs anyday. Happy Easter and
happy hunting. P.S. Every morel I find, I say a silent prayer for my friend
Larry Lonik and his family. May God rest his soul. - Wolfie
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: Sighting. Happy to say that we've finaly
got them in Riley County Ks. Found about 50 greys on the 18th and
around 100 greys and yellows on the 19th. The sizes ranged from 1-4 inches.
Randy
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: NE KANSAS. Finding greys,some
yellows, and half morels in NE Kansas..not really going strong yet, but
the neighbors,my wife and me have found enough to get a good taste teaser..
the warm up should really get things popping . WhiteCloud
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: Southeastern Kansas. April 20,
2003. Happy Easter. Found 40 large greys & whites. The cool weather
is extending the season this year. I know Larry is smiling on all of us
morel hunters. Wolfie.
From: Lois C. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 17:24:29 -0500. Subject:
Found 46!!! We found 46 nice fresh.... First one spotted from the roadside.
Lead to finding 3 or 4 nice patches of fresh yellows. Hopefully with a rain
this will become our new Mushroom Heaven! South-Western Sedgwick County.
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels found in Jefferson Co.
We have found morels in southern Jefferson county. So far the only luck
we've had has been near the Kansas River. They are small and grey,
but they are the first we've heard of in this area. We need rain badly and
hopefully with some expected moisture and warmth, we can look forward to
a good year.~Matt
From: APTUS GROUP LLC. Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: lots.
We hit the mother load today boys and girls. 7 pounds in 3 hours.(Jackson
County, KS) 1/2 rain made all of the difference. What a blast!
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: Jefferson Co. Kansas. Dad, brother
Cory, and I hit the woods yesterday. After a couple of unsuccessful hunts,
Easter Sunday was the trick. They were just getting started. Most of what
we found were small, though Cory set the pace with an admirable bag. Looks
like the major rains over the weekend really woke up the little sponges.
Looking forward to this week. Brother Dan, the morel map master, is flying
in from Arizona this coming week, so watch out. We'll be gettin' ticks,
pluckin' briars, and eatin' 'shrooms. Dave S.
From: Judy P. Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: morels 2003. City:
Manhattan, Kansas Date first found: April 17, 2003 type: yellow morel
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: Kansas morels. I live in Texas but was
recently in Southeastern Kansas for a visit (April 9-12) and was
lucky enough to get to eat some freshly picked yellow and gray morels. What
a treat - Kansas crappie and sauteed morels....heaven on a plate!! janet
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003 21:10:34 -0500. Subject: SouthEastern Kansas.
Thursday, April 24, 2003. SouthEastern Kansas. I called it quits
Monday for this season, poison ivy for the first time in 20 years.. .. then
my ShroomStick sidekick found 18 Tuesday night and 47 Wednesday night, nice
fresh Morels. I decided come out of season retirement and we found 28 nice
ones tonight (Thursday). Rain and thunderstorms so we quit early cause we
were soaked.... kent.
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 13:30:02 -0400. Subject: Large Yellows!!! I found
22 large yellows and 4 large greys ranging from 3 - 6 inches and as large
as 3 1/2 inches in diameter in a creek bed in Kansas City, Kansas...mmm
mmm good...Boomer777
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 20:15:39 -0500. Subject: Checking in From Jefferson
Co. Kansas. Arizona Dan flew in on Friday. Cory, Dad, Dan and I hit
three different spots today and found 51, a mixture of both grayuns and
yellerns. We're making a day of it tomorrow and Monday. Hopefully we'll
be sending a bunch back to Flagstaff. Happy huntin'! Dave S.
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003. Subject: Jefferson Co. KS. Well,
we're having to work for them this year. Dan, Dad, Cory, and I found another
25 today, a mixture of yellerns and grayuns. We had a lot of fun today though
and agreed that the annual spring hunt is a spiritual experience. This was
the third night running that we ate morels for supper and hope that the
trend continues. Dan is returning to Flagstaff tomorrow and is taking Christy
a sizeable bag of Kansas morels (we hope his carry-on luggage won't be considered
contraband!) We've seen more snakes out with the 'shrooms this year. Several
black snakes, garters, and blue racers have been guarding the ceremonial
mushroom woods. The turkeys are out too. Dad, Dan, and Cory scared a hen
out of her spot. After investigating they found 15 eggs in her clutch. Dave
S.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 14:57:58 -0500. Subject: Jefferson Co.
Kansas. Dad, Dan and I worked hard for 27 more today. All were yellerns,
some of which were 8 inchers. Dave S
Date: Fri, 2 May 2003 12:01:16 -0500. Subject: season winding down in
Kansas. I found one lonely mushroom (yellow) today in my woods near Manhattan,
KS. The best day was last Friday - found about 17 in the creek bed.
I don't have time to scope out new spots this year. Happy Hunting to the
rest of you up north! Judy P.
We're hearing reports of a monster morel found
near Ottawa, KS being 12" tall and weighing 7 lbs. If anyone has seen
a picture or can enlighten us, it would be appreciated. My first reaction
is that the numbers don't jive. I've seen a 13" tall morel that weighed
1 lb 4oz. So my first suspicion is that it is a Gyromitra.
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 19:56:30 -0500. Subject: Giant morel in Ottawa,
KS Tom, I saw the newspaper account in the Ottawa Herald about this
large morel that was found. It appeared to me to be a caroliniana. There
was no photo on their on-line version of the paper (you have to pay for
the on-line paper to access the archives anyway, although I think you can
get a free 2 week subscription); I suppose if you wanted a photo of it you
could call them and see if they might have a back issue of that copy. Take
it easy, Brian H., Lawrence, KS
Date: Fri, 09 May 2003 20:49:21 -0500. Subject: RE: Giant morel in Kansas
- It was a Gyromitra (beafsteak morel). It was in the local paper last week.
- Wolfie
Thanks to Kent W. for forwarding
the picture of the "Monster Morel" that was printed in the Kansas
City Star. Definitely a Gyromitra
Kentucky:
From: Ronald T. Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2003 07:32:02 -0500.
First Find of Season. Here in southeast Ky., we have had several
days of extremely warm weather with successive nights of temperature exceeding
40 degrees. These ideal conditions prompted a friend and I to head to the
mountians. Our first sighting was on Sat.,3/15/03. With warm rain
last evening and temperature at 52 degrees this morning at 7.00 am. Plan
to make a follow-up tripto hopefully find our favorite location blanketed
with both Blacks & Yellows in full Beauty.
From: Michael D. D. Date: Tue, 1 Apr 2003 19:05:24 -0500.
Today is Tues.April 1, 2003. Went to Burnt Ridge where we go every
year haven't spotted any yet. I think we need a shower of rain and a few
more warm days. The mayapples are just popping through the ground, and the
dogwoods still don't have leaves on them yet, not even the size of a mouse's
ear. Probably, by Friday we'll find some. GoodLuck to all hunters. Big
Hill, Kentucky.
From: Melissa & Dan B. Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 19:29:56 -0400.
Subject: ky sighting. Found one half- free today behind the house.I
expect by the weekend things will really start popping:) I am in Wolfe
Co. KY( eastern part of the state)
Date: Wed, 09 Apr 2003. Subject: Sighting in KY. Found 25 small (1 to
3 inch tall) black morels very near Cave City, Kentucky. I can't
wait to get back out there! They were SCRUMPTIOUS. Paul L.
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels I see! I found my first 2 morels
of the season this morning. I am in Argillite, KY. Just thought I
would let you know. By the way Argillite is in the Northeastern part
of Ky. Good Luck, Mark
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 12:20:05 -0500. Subject: morels. On April, 12th,
Karen & Gary B. found 287 black morels in Marshall County, Ky.
On the same day, Roy B. found 150 morels also in Marshall County, Ky.
Gary B. Benton, Ky
From: CHARLENE. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 20:30:05 EDT. Subject:
Morels. Good afternoon: We have found morels in Benton KY which is about
25 miles east of Paducah as of today, April 13, 2003.
From: Mary Ann. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 20:22:35 -0500. Subject:
Western kentucky Sighting. found morel in my backyard flower garden.
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 22:02:22 EDT. Subject: Morels In Kentucky. I found
21 nice yellows on 04/10/03 in SE KY near Harlan. All were about
3-4" high. I expect another week or so of good hunting here followed
by about a week lucky strikes. Greg
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 05:44:14 -0500. Subject: sighting. west central
Kentucky, about one hour south of Evansville Indiana, 4-13-03
fond 30 grays, two small blacks, one large black that was going bad, and
one small yellow. Also saw some half-free's. The next rain should really
get things going! Mike
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 22:37:43 -0400. Subject: yellows. 4-25-03. Found
19 yellow morels today near capitol city kentucky. should be several
more after next warm rain. the bird.
Manitoba:
Maryland:
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: false morel sighting/ MD. I sighted my
first ever false morel north of Baltimore City, Maryland, April 6th.
Do you know anything about when the season starts in Maryland? Last year
I stumbled upon them for the first time and it was all yellows in early
april. The false one I found on Sunday is the only shroom I've found yet
this spring. And yesterday it snowed, so it may be another couple of weeks.
I love your sight! Alena
From: Steve K. Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 09:43:10 -0400. Subject:
First sighting of the year in Maryland. We have looked several times this
season. Finally found two in mid western Maryland, not a big find,
but at least things are looking up. It is raining today, with lots of warm
weather to follow. It just might happen this week.
From: John D. Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 23:21:17 -0400. Subject:
Maryland Morels. I found my first morels of the year this Tuesday (4/22/03)
in Takoma Park, Maryland, just outside of Washington, DC. I picked
up five thumb sized Black Morels and 7 Half Free Morels. Although there
was not a lot of volume, I had one of the best culinary experiences in years.
I sauteed them with the thyme, chives, sage that's coming in for the season.
This comes after finding a large quantity of False Morels near Damascus,
which I didn't eat, last Sunday. I also found the remains of a Giant Puffball
(maybe even from last year) on that trek. It rained today, so I'll be back
on the trail tomorrow.
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 12:28:41 +0000. Subject: MD sightings. We hit
the jackpot on the evening of April 26, it was just getting dark, and we
found about a dozen 2 inch grays. We thought that was it and were headed
out when we started tripping over blacks that ran from 4-7 inches. We got
about 60 before we couldn't see anymore. We went back on sunday morning
and found another 250!!! Mostly Blacks, Grays, and a few white morels were
starting to pop up. All were found in leaf litter around wild cherry
and birch trees. Our hunting ground is north of Baltimore city, Maryland.
Happy hunting!) Alena, Alan, Jamie, Kate, Sandy, Melvin
From: nick. Date: Thu, 01 May 2003 09:12:40 -0400. Subject: morels
are up in Md. I found 46 on 4-27, 103 on 4-28, 84 on 4-29 and 30 on 4-30.
Mostly toppies, some large blacks and a few yellows. All found somewhere
in Maryland
From: Steve K. Date: Thu, 8 May 2003 21:23:14 -0400. Subject:
More Morels. Been to busy to log in. I found 16 on April 27, 28 on April
30th, and a undisclosed large amount on May 3rd. All of these gems came
from mid western Maryland. Having a great time enjoying the benefits
of finding so many. Venison Marsala, deep fried, and sautéed in butter.
Good luck to all.
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 07:52:41 -0400. from CLS in Baltimore, Maryland:
1 3/4 pounds found Monday May 5 in Patapsco St. Pk. First time ever
hunting these prized edibles! Will definitely keep my eyes open for next
couple of weeks and look forward to it next year! Washed them, cut off bottom
of stalks, and sauted them in butter, olive oil, a little fresh garlic,
and white wine. Served them over white rice with a little salt and pepper
to bring out the flavors even more!!! Wonderful side dish!!!
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 15:50:44 -0400. Subject: FW: MD Report. My father
tought me how to hunt for Morels when I was a kid during the 60's, in Allegany
County, MD. I moved to the Baltimore area in the Mid 80's, and
read an article about Mushroom hunting in the Baltimore Sun. Naturally,
the author was vague about the whereabouts of finding them; but he did say
that they could be found around our 3 municipal reservoir watersheds. It
took me a few years, but I have found a half dozen good spots. They tend
to be in larger stands of Tulip Poplar trees. This week, I have found
5 - 6 dozen on each of the last three evenings. I've been finding mostly
Yellows with a few Blacks mixed in. The typical size is an inch or two tall.
I travel back to Allegany County, on the weekends from Mid April
to Mid May, to go turkey hunting. I go "shrooming" on those afternoons.
My brother-in-law (whom I tought to hunt morels) showed me a cooler full
of soda-can sized mushrooms he picked along the Potomac River in Allegany
County on April 30th. I searched in the same spot on May 3rd, and didn't
find any, because the undergrowth had gotten too thick. Scott M
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003 02:25:39 -0400. Yellow morels found on river
side of Patapsco in State Park, Baltimore County. Only a half dozen
or so, but a very exciting find!!! -CS
From: Steve K. Date: Sun, 25 May 2003 11:48:29 -0400. Subject:
Late Morels mid western Maryland. It seems to have been a good year.
Picked quite a few May 9th. I got a bit busy, so I was not able to return
until May 24th. Since it has been wet and cool I was hoping for an extend
season. I found about 5 older yellows, with quite a bit of looking. So until
next year, we will have to put up with the dried ones we have so carefully
prepared for the year to come.
Maine:
Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: MUSHROOM SIGHTING IN MAINE! After hunting
for morrells in Ohio for many many years I moved to Maine 4 yrs ago. Asked
several towns people who hunt other types of mushrooms in the fall and they
had no clue what I was talking about. I gave up any hope of finding them
here until last summer! When low and behold 5 showed up in my very own backyard!
Well I just went out looking today Thurs May 15 2003 and near the spot where
they were last year I have found THEM! Although only about 1/3 of an inch
tall at this pt. It is totally obvious what they are!! We have had plenty
of rain all week but temps have only been in the 50s so I am shocked they
are even popped! Is supposed to be in the 70s on sunday and monday and I
hope to see some massive popping!! So, if there is any MAINERS out there
get out your magnifying glass tomorrow or take a walk in the woods this
weekend!! Missy D. Millinocket Maine. 75 miles north of Bangor and just
south of Mt. Katahdin!
Date: Thu, 29 May 2003 17:11:34 -0400. Subject: Maine sighting. May 24,
2003 Knox County town of Rockport. Searched and searched in apple
orchards and in areas of lime sweet soil with no success. Then found about
two dozen yellow and black morels in the wood mulch beds laid last fall
at a new building construction site. This follows a pattern seen in
years past. As of 5-29 there were still a few young fruiting bodies coming.
Greg M.
Massachusetts:
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003 13:50:33 GMT. Subject: Massachusetts. First and
earliest ever sighting from Massachusetts. While running to catch the high-speed
ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket, I nearly stepped on about a dozen little
greys growing in sand that had accumulated in cracks in the parking lot.
Funny, most years I can spend weeks combing old apple orchards and elm groves
with little to no luck, but this year th morels are finding me! PhB
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 12:05:18 -0400 (EDT). Subject: MA. Massachusetts
report. I gathered about 4 dozen yellows, 2-4" in an old apple orchard
in the Connecticut River Valley of western MA, on May 10-11. Not terribly
impressive compared to reports from many other states, but my best yet.
Morels aren't very common here. Not certain why. Too oakey? I also collected
about 6 pounds of wild asparagus around the same time last week. A forager's
wet dream, for sure! Marty
From: Bob B. Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: morel findings.
I live in the Berkshire Mts. of southern Berkshire county MA. I have
found a few dozen of the small dark gray and the large yellow morels during
the week of 5/12. Exclusively in the near vicinity of dead elms. Its getting
to where I hardly bother to look anywhere else. Seems funny though, when
I lived in southwestern VA ( Abingdon, VA ) we would find morels widely
dispersed in mixed hardwood forests, but not here. Does anyone have any
idea why that might be?
Michigan:
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Tom, Sorry to hear of Tree I have also recently
lost a mushrooming friend of 20 yrs. I have read many books that refer to
Tree, he will be missed. We have found blacks in Kzoo Co near the Kal
Haven trail 85 on WED and another 400+ on Friday4/18/03. I have not
been successful in St Joe Co MI. yet this year. Lets hope it is a wonderful
year in honor of loved, temporarily misplaced hunting friends. We will hunt
again!! Thank You Gary.
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: Re: sightings page. Hi, I'm Dan G
me and my girlfriend Beverly C we went out looking today in one of
our favorite spots, and we found a total of 31 blacks. They were so young
they were a skin color. Now I've been hunting mushrooms most of my life
and these were the freshest and youngest ones ever! not even one of them
were over 3/4" quite a challenge. I think we are the first to report
in Michigan: near Cedar Springs, located in Kent County Happy Hunting!!!!
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: Blacks in Southern Michigan. SHEP
MOREL found 100 blacks on Sunday, April 20, 2003 and some everyday since
then in Southern Michigan. Another year of hunting the elusive morel
begins .
From: BUCKWILDMB Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: finally here.
well the morels have finally arrived. found 40 small greys yesterday and
hopefully with the weather warming up a bit, they will be out in full force
next week. our hearts go out to Larry's family in this time of need. Shroom
on my friend. Shroom on!! oh yeah, almost forgot. i am from mid michigan.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 22:57:28 -0700. Subject: Mushroom Sightings (lack
of). Hi Shroomers! My wife and I are very dissapointed in the Mushroom sightings
(or lack there of) here in southwestern lower Michigan. We have not
gotten hardly any rain needed for them to sprout. We haven't even found
one yet! I hope this is not a repeat of last season, when it went from winter
to summer without the pause for spring! Mike
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003 01:09:15 -0700 (PDT). Subject: MI Report. 4/27.
Michigan report, I'm in with two whites Kalamazoo Co. Date set for
Ryn and Leroy's 8th anual mushroom camp May 8th through 12th held each year
at northern Michigan's great merlin wall !!! Ryn
From: DIXIE S. Date: Fri, 02 May 2003 11:38:46 -0400. Subject:
Mushroom sighting. May 1, 2003, my daughter, Kristi, found the first
black morel of this season in the woods near Dansville, MI. It had
just popped so we left it to grow. This weekend should be great with all
the rain we had over the last 2 days.
From: Tricia. Date: Mon, 5 May 2003. Subject: Hello - Sightings.
Hello! We are finding thumb size blacks in Southwest Michigan. We
have found about 50 a day for the last week! Rain and warmer weather is
looking good. May 5, 2003
From: Al. Date: Mon, 5 May 2003. Subject: michigan blacks found. Hello,
found 350 small blacks Ionia county michigan in lower michigan on
may4-5. they were hard to find in the leaves mostly in poplar groves with
some oaks. very tasty. --- little shroomer
Date: Thu, 08 May 2003. Subject: Mushrooms here and gone (apparently).
My wife & I finally found mushrooms here in southwestern lower Michigan.
On Saturday May 3rd., we found between 8 and 9 lbs. of caps. On Sunday we
found between 4 & 5 lbs. of greys and few caps an whites. On Monday
we only found 12 caps total. We finally are getting the rain we needed here,
but maybe it's too late as the undergrowth is very thick and wild. Has anyone
heard about what's going on up around the Mesick area? This weekend is Mother's
Day and "suppose" to be the big festival up in Mesick....??? Mike
From: Badladd. 5-6-03 I was out earlier today and found 52 blackies
at a state park in Oakland county Michigan
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 13:11:46 -0700 (PDT). Subject: black morels. hello
all, found 12 pounds (500) nice size blacks 2"-5" in the ionia
county area on may 8th. also found 2 very small greys. it was a great
day al h
From: Jeannie K. Date: Fri, 09 May 2003 23:24:25 -0400. Subject:
Black morel, Cheboygan Michigan. Hi! I am a newbe to morel hunting.
I went out looking in Cheboygan MI with my friend John (he knows
where to find em!). We found four black morels, 1 inch to 1 1/2 inch, in
the twenty minutes of time we had available to look with. Will hunt more
next week!
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 21:47:33 -0500. Subject: letter. Date 5-10 from
jeff and patti went to lansing today and got rained on twice
but it was well worth it we picked up over 5 lbs the mushrooms they were
in there prime. got to go not much time left to hunt this year
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003 20:56:26 -0400. Subject: Morels. Well the hunt
is on again here in MI. It seems strange that a bunch of grown-ups are running
around the woods each spring looking for some fungus, but for me, it's one
of the most enjoyable times of the year. Things are just starting to pop
here. Some are gray, some are white and others are yellow. Still not having
any luck with the blacks however. They must grow in a different type of
habitat then I'm used to. I've seen at least one everytime I've been out
so far. The first time was around week ago. I found one tiny gray. Every
time since there's been more & more. We've had some good conditions
here lately. Lots of rain and the weather is turning warmer. I've had some
nice t-bone steaks with sautéed onions and mushrooms and some mushrooms
just sautéed by themselves. Just getting ready to go and clean the
bag I just came home with, probably around 30 - 40 mushrooms. By the way,
today I picked only the shrooms which were 3 inches in height or greater.
I'm going to give the others a few days to grow. Some were 1-2 mm in height.
Marty in MI
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 08:27:35 -0000. Subject: Shep Morels updated find.
May 12, 2003 SHEP MOREL has hit the 2,000 mark this season of hunting
the elusive morel and still going strong in Southern Michigan. Will
update later on his current progress.
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 19:36:47 GMT. Subject: mushrooms. From western
Michigan, finding them in the poplars and the lower woods, blacks
seem to be reappearing in same areas after the cool rains. Getting blacks
that are at least 2 to 4 inches long. Just starting to see yellows in the
Grand Rapids area. Friends reported getting grays and whites. It
has been a wonderful year for the mighty Morel. (ag)
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 20:43:39 -0700 (PDT). Subject: Big Morel. Dear
Tom, I am from Burr Oak Michigan. My fiancee found a gray moral that
is 7 inches in height and 9 inches around. I am sending you a picture of
my fiancee and the mushroom. He would like to know if you could send us
pictures of some of the biggest mushrooms that you or any one else has found.
Sincerely, Dana G.
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 10:05:51 -0700 (PDT). Subject: Morels found in
Michigan. Hi, A friend of mine happens to have morel mushrooms growing in
his Southfield, MI backyard. When he found out I never tasted these
morsels, he sent a few to me. Now, I love mushrooms but have never had morels
let alone any "wild" ones. I will venture to taste these culinary
delights and if you have any suggestions, feel free to email me. Vickie
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 16:03:28 -0400. Subject: morels. Took my 3-1/2
year old daughter to one of my "hotspots" today. She found
her first black morels. Though she only found seven (with a little steering)
it was a start on what I hope is another great shrooming relationship with
friends and family. Someday I'll probably regret showing her the spot because
she's quite a little trooper and I foresee her beating me to "my"
spot in the years ahead. Alpena.
From: Richard S. Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 16:06:47 -0400. Subject:
update. Contacted you earlier when the black morels were first making their
appearance in my area of Alpena, Michigan. Since then the picking
has blossomed along with the black flies. Got our much needed mush rain.
The bracken ferns are in their fiddlehead stage (supposedly good eating
) and there are trilliums flowering in the more protected areas. Asparagus
spears are 4-5 inches. Came to the conclusion that I'll never find enough
black morels for commercial picking but have managed to accrue a couple
hundred thus far this week. They get eaten a lot quicker than they get picked.
I don't usually find any whites until the end of May but I'm checking my
spots to avoid friends and family beating me to them. Still haven't learned
to keep my secret spots secret.
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: Morels in Michigan. Hey Tom we're way
up north in the Upper Penninsula of Michigan and morel season has
just started. (not to many found yet) But as of Monday May 12 my boyfriend
and I found about 50-60 blonde morels and today May 16 we stopped for a
look and found 16 of the biggest morels I have ever seen, going back tomorrow
for more. More rain is needed in most parts but found that deeper in the
woods they are growing quite well. We are in the areas of Luce/Schoolcraft/Mackinac
Counties. Happy hunting everyone cm in michigan
Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: Michigan morels. Hello from Michigan,
I've been having a great year mushrooming. Picked over 80 qts in 2 days
last weekend in Northern Lower Michigan. All were blacks except 8
or 10 small grays. They were anywhere from 2-4 inches. Found them mostly
in the hardwoods and higher ground. We've had just enough rain to make this
a good year. Whites should be up this weekend. Happy Shrooming to you all.
Patti in Mid-Michigan
Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: My first Morel sighting. I am happy
to report that today, 5/15/2003 @ 5:30pm CST I was able to find my first
morel of this year's season. The elusive mushroom was just peering through
the ground litter in an area which I had just come across. I left the Black
morel in Dickinson County MI, as it was the only one located and
a very small specimen at that. I hope you find the information useful. Dave
I.
From: Greg W. Date: Mon, 19 May 2003 20:58:29 -0400. Subject:
tons of morels. Date Monday May 19, 2003: Writing from northern MI in
Charlevoix County. My wife and I went out a week on Thursday May 8th
and found 48 mushrooms.We went every day after finding between 100 and 180
blacks. On That Saturday we found 200 and Sunday we got 360. Missed out
this last Friday but spent the day Saturday and found 960 another 580 on
Sunday. We have never spent this much time at hunting and it has been major
fun. To date in 9 days of hunting we have found almost 3,000 mushrooms with
just a few white ones starting to come on Sunday. My wife found one a bit
larger than a soda can and we got several nice size ones as well.
Date: Wed, 21 May 2003 22:20:48 -0400. Subject: Morels - Lenawee Co.
Found the week of May 19th10 Yellow morels, approximately 5 inches each
in Lenawee County near Tecumseh. They look to be fairly young. Heidi
B. Tecumseh, MI
Date: Fri, 23 May 2003 10:43:01 -0700. Subject: where are the whites?
Wife and I went to our favorite mushroom hunting grounds this past weekend
up in the hills of Mesick. We were so dissapointed! The week before
we found nearly 150 blacks. This past week we only found 30 or so and no
white morels to be seen! We are going up Memorial Weekend in hopes that
the whites are up, but there has been little to no rain........ Mike.
Date: Mon, 26 May 2003 18:01:26 -0400. Subject: morel and friend. We're
just about done down here in Manchester, Michigan now. Found about
350 this year. I did find a nice morel with a friend yesterday morning (see
attached). I honestly didn't have the heart to harvest this one (next to
fawn's right ear). The fawn just laid there and pretended it was invisible
(much like many morels I've encountered over the years...LOL!) In memory
of Larry Lonik, hunting mushrooms in heaven!!! Sue.
I attended the memorial service for Larry Lonik
in Dexter last Sunday (June 1). Michael Murphy of Missouri (who was with
Larry on April 15) took a walk in the woods and returned with 5 or 6 medium/large
yellows. All had gone to spore and were inedible, but it was still a very
fitting "Sighting" in memory of "Tree"
Minnesota:
Great Minnesota Morel Festival - May 18th, 2003 - Information at www.redwing.org or call the Red Wing
Visitors and Convention Bureau at 1-800-498-3444. Red Wing hosts full day
of fungi fun celebrating our state mushroom, the Morel! Join us along the
the banks of the Mighty Mississippi for a Sturdiwheat Pancake Feed, Mushroom
Basics Boot Camp, guided forays and Myco Challenge - Morel Pickers Tourney.
Music, fun, food, and tournament prizes!
Date: Fri, 09 May 2003 19:33:15 +0000. Shrooms!!! Found 23 little greys
in Olmstead county, MN on May 8. They're Comin. Waldo
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 09:31:33 -0500. Subject: Minnesota Morels.
Hi All, Found about 25 medium Greys in the Cannon Falls area on Friday
4/9 and 75 small medium greys and a few medium yellows in the Preston
area. Lots of hunting. A few here and there. No "mother loads"
!! Still looks like the larger groups are a week or so away for us here
in MN. Warmer weather this week should get 'em poppin' !!! Good luck !!
Jim from Cokato.
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 16:38:49 -0500. Subject: Twin Cities (MN)
Morels. Ran out quick at lunch today and found 2 large grays, that looked
like they'd been up for several days, just off the freeway in the northern
suburbs of Minneapolis (Fridley). This warm, but not hot, spring should
be excellent weather for a long and productive season here in MN !! Jim
from Cokato
Date: Wed, 14 May 2003 11:39:40 EDT. Subject: MN morels. Dakota County
Minnesota went out Tuesday afternoon 5/13 found 3/4 pound mostly small
to medium grays, but did find 3 nice yellows-not bad for 30 minutes. Know
that they just came up because I checked the EXACT spot on Monday-nothing.
Found all in grassy areas mixed with prickley ash. Full sun. West
and south facing areas. Taking this afternoon off should really hammer
them. Good luck to all. DIGGER
Date: Wed, 14 May 2003 17:07:20 -0500. Subject: Morels in Minnesota.
Kind of a slow start here, although plenty of rain. Found three choice grey
morels on Saturday May 10 in Mendota Heights (SE St Paul metro area),
on a south-facing slope in an old elm woods I have been picking for
12 years. Weather still quite cool, ground also cool. Teresa in Minnesota
Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: mn morels. Dakota county MN -
went out again yesterday afternoon picked anothe 3/4 pound all grays except
1 5" yellow. Still in the grass mixed with that nasty prickley ash
in areas with lots of sun. True mushroom hunters have cut up arms evidently.
Sun is out today and will be thru the weekend. Don't miss this opportunity
should be great over the weekend. DIGGER
From: CRAIG S. Date: Thu, 15 May 2003 15:24:34 -0500. Subject:
mushrooms. i found 50 small morells in dakota and goodhue countys
on may 13 also found a small grouping in washington county.
From: Wayne W. Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 15:41:44 -0500. Subject:
sightings. Found 2 black morels today, May 18, about 12 miles north of
Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Has been very dry this spring and we hope the
promised rains come tonight. Have found a few blacks in the same mature
aspen forest for the past 5 years. Have had a interesting spring, morel-wise.
We spend winters in Texas and found a few yellows near Austin in mid-March.
On our way north, we stopped in southwest Iowa, May 4, near Hamburg. We
found about 2 dozen yellows and a couple of other hunters gave us 10 they
had found. Today's find gives us morels from TX, IA, and MN this spring.
Not very many but they still taste good. p.s. I also spent an hour this
afternoon reading Michael Kuo's morel information. Most interesting and
informative.
Date: Mon, 19 May 2003 17:20:45 -0500. Subject: MN morels. Wow
it's been a good weekend in MN!!! Been going out every day-of course! Friday
found 1 1/2 lb still in the grass-Dakota County. Saturday found some
3 - 5 inch yellows a little farther in the woods but still getting very
good sun. Sunday went to Red Wing for the 1st annual MN morel festival.
Great time and felt very welcome. Thanks to Bob with the Red Wing Convention
& Visitors Bureau - great breakfast, hospitality, and crowd but the
mushrooms didn't cooperate with me...ZERO!! But not all was lost - came
back to the cities and found a nice mess. Today (Monday) we got over
1" of rain. Went out this afternoon and found 2lb - getting a few more
yellows but still mostly grays. The sun is to come out the rest of the week
and this moisture today should really help. I am hitting the asparagus very
good also. DIGGER
Date: Wed, 21 May 2003 12:08:09 EDT. Subject: MN morels. Hittin
the big yellow ones in my hot spot. Picked 2 1/2 pounds mostly 3 - 5 inch
yellows last night after supper. Dakota County, MN, Minnesota River bottoms.
Finding them in areas that get sun maybe 1/4 to 1/2 the day. Still
in the grass but more in the shady areas. Same thing in the woods-find
the elms and cottonwoods, and look for an area that is getting
some sunlight. Going again today - up to over 14 pounds for the season!
Good luck to all. DIGGER
Date: Sat, 24 May 2003 12:47:54 -0500. Subject: minnesota morel sightiings.
I have been picking an unlimited quanity of Morel mushrooms in St. Paul,
Minnesota. The largest single Morel I have seen was 1.25 pounds.....Yes
1 and 1/4 pounds! Rubbertramp
Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 17:44:08 -0500. Subject: MN Shrooms. Southern
MN - Dakota County looks to be done. Last Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
were very good, but came back from the lake on Sunday and found none. BANNER
YEAR (for me) - found 520 MN shrooms for the season; mostly large yellows.
I bought your spore bag a few years back and I truly believe it is making
a difference. It seems like I have more mushrooms in the same areas every
year, and I believe it is because of the spore bag! Hunted Otter Tail County,
MN this weekend for a couple hours but came up empty. I did talk to some
people that were finding them so it must just be me. Great website - keep
it going. Good luck to all. Talk to you next shroom season!!! DIGGER
Mississippi:
Missouri:
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2003 11:51:51 -0600. Subject: Morels found in Louisiana
Missouri. Tom, We had our first find of the season by Sally B. on 3/26/2003.
She found 2 small gray morels. Sarah
From: Mark. Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003 Subject: MOREL SIGHTINGS in
SE MISSOURI!! Had success this weekend. Found about 60 black morels
on Saturday March 29, and 28 on Sunday, March 30 in Cape Girardeau County.
Found them on the higher elevations, just off the top of hills on south
slopes, southeast, and east facing slopes. Nearly all were found near dogwood-sassafras
treecombinations. With rainy, warm weather in the forecast, they should
be working their way down the slopes and to the north slopes this weekend.
I've added a verse to the jingle one of my students came up with last year:
MUSHROOMS HIGH, MUSHROOMS LOW, GRAB YOUR STICK, AND OFF WE GO! LOOK TO
THE LEFT, LOOK TO THE RIGHT, PICK THEM WHILE THEY'RE STILL IN SIGHT!
Date: Mon, 07 Apr 2003 12:34:14 -0500. Subject: More mushrooms!! They're
up thick. Found 319 blacks and 5 whites this weekend in Cape Girardeau
County, and we didn't even hit all the spots. It's been a good year
for the blacks in this area. And here is yet another verse for the jingle:
BLACK ONES, WHITE ONES, ALL AROUND, JUST DON'T ASK ME WHERE THEY'RE FOUND!
Mark
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels In Central Missouri. Well,
I must say, it looks like it might be a pretty good year here in central
Missouri. We found our first tiny grays on April 2nd. Nine tiny ones! And
then, on April 5th, we found 519 grays & even yellows! Sounds like a
lot of mushrooms, but they were so small that most would have to be sauteed
instead of fried. But will be some good eating! Happy Hunting from. Mushroom
Annie
From: Bill. Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels in SW MO. I've
found about 10 small ones in SW MO close to Joplin. We're
too close to Kansas.
Date: Thu, 10 Apr 2003 07:37:30 -0700 (PDT). Subject: MO morel sightings.
It's time and I'm headed to SW MO just north of Branson. My friend
reports they are up. Also, my brother in law found 35 by Cabool, MO in
the south central part of the state. Good warm temps this coming week
and record snowfall last winter should make them pop for a great season.
Luck to all--KC Suzi (a mushroom queen in my own mind)
From: Sue S. Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 09:29:49 -0500. Subject:
Morel season is finally here! Central Missouri. We went out after
work for 3 hours and came home with a total of 196. yellows/grays. We came
upon an area that contained approx. 150-170 in just one area. WOW, THEY'RE
OUT, LET THE HUNT BEGIN!
From: Dean W. Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 11:23:05 -0500. Subject:
report. We found two dozen small blacks in Kansas City yesterday by the
Missouri River 04/10/03
Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 22:30:57 -0500. Subject: morel Sighting. SE
Missouri, West Cape Girardeau, found many half-free morels, very small
in size though. Looking to go back out tomorrow, another warm sunny day.
Bg
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003 15:34:59 -0500. Subject: missouri. i found a dozen
black morels in my small back yard in suburban st louis, mo. lived
here 3 years and never een thought i had a chance. i have a small backyard
maybes 40+40' and almost all shade. neal t
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 21:00:09 -0500. Subject: morels in missoruri.
Found three 3-4 inch tall yellows in Henry county Saturday, And 9
tiny greys and yellows closer to Cass County on Sunday. They are
calling for rain possibly Tuesday- Friday with temps in the 60s-80s. we
should (if we get rain) have plenty of mushrooms PRAY FOR RAIN!!!!!!! Tom
in Creighton
From: Lee. Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 22:17:41 EDTSubject: Found first
one in back yard March 31, Thursday 4/10 found a dozen 3 inchers
in yard definitely tasty. live in St Louis and have them in back
yard every year
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003 15:10:16 -0500. Subject: morels in Missouri. Hi
Tom this is another Tom in creighton , Mo. This morning Wed. the
16th we found 20 nice yellows and then later found 21 more.It's raining
right now we're home drying off and heading back out . I think it might
be a GOOD YEAR.Thank god for the rain
From: Michael F. Sent: Wednesday, April 16, 2003 8:23 AM. Subject:
Kansas city morels. April 15th in Kansas City Missouri. Found several
dozen grays and yellows of decent size. Most were about 2 inches tall and
very fresh. Although the ground here is as dry as a bone these mushrooms
were in great condition. Storms moving through the area the next few days
should make for some great times in the woods. I've heard and read all the
stories and articles on weather or not mushrooms grow so to bring light
to that question I left a small amount of 'shrooms to check back on in a
few days. This is also an area that has produced for me in the past. Hi Michael, let us know the results of your experiment
From: thomas g. Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: morels in
mo. Tom ive noticed the last couple years after the season really hits
nobody (myself included) evr seems to post to much any more .I wonder where
they are and what they're doin ?????haha anyways this is tom in creighton
, Mo again we found 83 more on Wed. afternoon and got very wet in the
rain And found 30 more on Fri.I even had to give half of em to a nice old
boy for him and his wife . I figure im having a good yr. whats 15 more?
I hope everyone is enjoyin mushroomin as much as me. p.s. I'm very sorry
to hear about your friend , Larry , He was truly the mushroom Guru!!!!!
God bless all mourning his unfortunate death .
From: Michelle Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: morels found!!!!
Jethro couldn't wait, after a couple days of rain, and the sun peeking through
the clouds here in Kansas City, so he packed up his Bronco, skipped work,
and headed out. Location: K-32 highway on the North bank of the Kansas
River.near the Grinter House. Results: Well, 'ol jethro had himself
a spot of luck. I found four fist sized yellow morels in a leafy area with
small sapling growth. They were very fresh just potted up. . I only had
time to look for an hour, but betcha bottom dollar I be lookin' tomaree.
All day! Wish I had a camera, but rest assured jethro will be havin' a nice
steak and morel dinner tonite.
From: Family Pawn Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: morels. Central
mo. BoCoMo Found 9-beautiful black morels. 3-4 inches,biggest
I've seen yet! Not much time to look, but will be out all week.
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. I would love to receive your ink and paper catalog
from 2003. I went Shroomin this weekend in Southwestern, MO and found
roughly 125. A good mixture of grays, whites and blacks. Probably around
3lbs worth, so most were pretty good size. I used to hunt with my grandmother
all of the time as a child, but have gotten away from it since moving to
St. Louis. I have tried the last few years, but not very hard until this
year and I am determined to get my share :-) I am just learning all of the
lingo as far as the types go and enjoy your website and links that you offer.
Thanks for the continuing education. Denna
From: lloyd. Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. ubject: morels in MIssouri.
In central MO, Boone County, we found our first "little greys"
by the river around April, 9. April 19 after rainshowers we found enough
(of many types of morels) to eat and save for later. Today on the 22nd of
April, several pounds of yellow morels on the river hills and even on the
creeks that run through town. Tonight heavy rain, how will this rain effect
the rest of this season?
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 16:09:35 -0500. Subject: Missouri shrooms. This
Minnesota mushroom hunter just got back from NW Missouri. Found 102
big yellows on Friday around St Joe, Missouri; mostly in the river
bottoms. S and W facing slopes the best; areas getting good sunlight.
It was a great time - took a couple of MN rookies with and they even found
some ! Good luck. DIGGER.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 21:27:14 -0500. Subject: morel sightings in No.
Mo. Dear Morel Mania, At first I would like to give you my deepest regrets
on losing Larry, that is tragic. I just wanted to let you know I was out
yesterday 3/22/03 in Northern Mo. (Sullivan County) and found about
two dozen small yellow and mostly grey ones. The area I just checked usally
produces some decent yellows but there still grey for now. I guess it's
still a little early for that area to produce the bigger yellows. It is
supposed to rain tonight and tommorow 3/24/03. I hope so and a good warm
day or two and us here in the northern part of Mo. will be a little better
off. I was never fortunate enough to find truck loads like some of you guys,lol.
I'm pleased for a few cast iron skillets full though. 4/27/03 I went out
again to my favorite little spot after our good rains we just had and I
only found two !!!! I was pretty disapointed to say the least. I thought
with the rain and sun I would realy find at least a few more than that,
but that is always my luck. Bill
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: Mushrooms in No. Mo.
(Sullivan Co.). In regards to the last letter I sent you guys saying
I got skunked the other day. Well me and my daughter went out yesterday
(3-28) after she got off school, and we found 60 3"-6" yellows,
mostly 3"-4" though. I went out this morning and got soaked for
6 small to med. yellows. In my area they seem to be towards the edge of
the woods. Bill
From: Bev M. Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 23:35:03 -0500 (Central Daylight
Time). Subject: morels in nw mo. found small greys and whites on
the 22 of April. Should find the bigger ones in a few days need more sunshine.
Gonna try to raise them in our greenhouse hope it works.
Montana:
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003 07:53:34 -0600. Found blacks in the pines around
Missoula and in Thompson Falls area. The weather has turned cold
and the Yellows are soon to come as soon as it warms. Rodney M.
From: Floyd G. Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 02:51:20 -0000. Subject:
Here They Come. Went out today and found a few yellows here in Cascade
County, Montana. They are a little on the small side, but they are starting
to poke their heads out and say hi.
Nebraska:
From: Denise. Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: morels. found some
near springfield nebraska
From: cap-am. Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: first find. april
20 made first look the temp was 45 degrees but low and behold came home
with two gallons od nice fresh ones 1 to 2 inches high cap am 2000 central
neb
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: SW Nebraska Sorry to hear of the loss
of your friend Larry. May God grant you peace during this difficult time.
River Valley - SW Nebraska. Found my first mushrooms for the year,
yesterday (the 16th). It has been terribly dry here and last year wasn't
as good as the two years before. I picked a small bag full yesterday - none
of them were very big. Today I went out again and found about the same amount
but they were a little bigger (2.5" tall was probably the biggest).
If we can get another rain in the next week we will probably have some good
picking! Good luck to all! Thanks for your site - have been contributing
since 98 and look forward to the season each year! Best wishes, Nathan
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: found mushrooms. Hey, this is my first
time ever finding mushrooms. My son and I were out turkey hunting up around
Fremont NE, and decided to try to locate the mystical morel. It must
be because my son is so much closer to the ground but he located a group
of three morels and while picking them we must have seen about three more
dozen in little clusters here and there. All in all I bet we must have picked
close to a pound and a half to two pounds worth. We are hoping the rain
helps sprout more of them soon. Thanks, Tab N.
From: Chad Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: Sighting. April 19th,
2003. NE Nebraska along the Missouri River near Yankton, SD. Could
not believe it, but found 5 areas and picked about 120 small to medium size
greys. Very fresh and found primarily around cotton woods that were cut
down this last year. Found 1/2 around just one very large tree base. Good
luck to all.
New Hampshire:
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 21:09:24 -0400. Subject: NH Morels. I live on
a dirt road in Hollis, NH and found morels last year by the side
of road in leaf litter and some poison ivy. This road runs north and
south and they are on the sunny side of the road. Picked about 5
on 5/12/03 and can see another 8 ready to pick tomorrow. Carol M. S.
Date: Mon, 26 May 2003 19:55:52 -0400. Subject: NH Morel. May
26 2003 Found my first morel of the season in south west NH, and what a
find! One single yellow over 8" high and 2 1/2" in diameter. Found
in new location under dead elm. Usual spot not producing anything
yet. I'm hoping the rains will bring a plenty. John
Date: Tue, 27 May 2003 18:53:26 -0400. Subject: Mother load. Found another
3 lbs of HUGE (7-9" tall and 2-3" diameter) yellows in Sothwest
NH.....All on elms. Seems as if the rain has really kicked them into
gear. John
New Jesey:
From: kathigale Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: I think I found
a yellow morel. In my front yard. I thought it was a bee hive of some sort,
then I did some searching on the net and found that they are rather rare.
Funny, I really love mushrooms and it's cool that this one just popped up
in my front yard. Can you give me some information that would help more
grow? I live in Gloucester County, NJ. (South Jersey) Sorry, I don't
have any way to send a picture of it. I don't have a scanner or digital
camera. Hi kathigale, Congratulations! First of all
be sure it looks something like the pictures on this "Sightings"
page. A true morel has three characteristics: 1. spongelike cap. 2. when
sliced in half the entire mushroom is hollow - both cap and stem. 3. the
cap and stem connect to one another at the base of the cap. In other words
, the stem only goes up to meet the cap at the base of the cap rather than
up inside the cap. You may want to visit some of our information
pages. Let me know if I can be of further service.
Tom
Date: Sun, 11 May 2003 12:09:18 -0400. Subject: sighting 5/11. Location:
Mercer County, New Jersey, 10 miles from Delaware River. Found
a few 2-3" yellows near ash trees, in moist but not mushy ground
near a creek. Hope this isn't the tail end of the season! It's tough to
beat the deer to them in this area. This transplanted Nebraskan longs for
the fertile foraging grounds of his youth. -Slim
From: Justina. Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 21:56:12 EDT. Subject: nj
findings. greetings and salutations from nj ( 30 miles west of nyc).
We have had a very late spring this year and crazy cold weather.I had found
about 20 nice blonds the on the 12th of may and was excited to see that
the morels were finally sprouting then it became cold again and figured
that was it, the morels season is ruined but today june 1st my husband and
i went walking thru the paths of our favorite morel spots and found about
3 lbs. of blonds and for the first time in 5 years we also found alot of
blacks. i was suprised because its late in the season and also we have had
only a few days of sunshine were the temp stay around 70 for 3 days, then
major rain for the last past 3 days. we found most of them along a path
all on a hillside ,nothing on flat ground, under tulip poplar trees.
it was funny because we have never found them befor on the hills, alway
along the paths on flat ground. (maybe i just never bothered to look on
the hills, i will now). oh well if it drys up and stays in the 70s, ill
be out looking again later in the week, just want anyone on the east coast
in my area, dont give up, they are out there so check your hunting spots,
morel season is not over for us, maybe just beginning. happy hunting,.
New York:
From: ROBERT O. Date: Mon, 5 May 2003 10:29:27 -0400. Subject:
NY morel sighting. Sunday, May 4 2003. We found 18 large morels growing
in a wet woods along the Hudson River, about 20 miles south of Albany
NY. The woods was dominated by large, old red oak, sycamore and hemlock,
with the occasional run of poplars. These were growing on soil disrupted
by roots of a fallen tree that had been down for about 2-3 years, and at
the sunny edge of an opening in the woods. They appear to be esculenta sp.,
although these have not yet appeared in the usual places in which we find
them (so far only the early morel and some gyromitra sp. there). It has
been cool (29 deg this AM), and so the season should be a bit retarded this
year. Also, last year saw a long drought in the area, and I'm wondering
if this will affect the crop in spite of plentiful snow and rain this winter
and spring. These guys must be precocious individuals.
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003 13:10:41 -0400. Subject: False morels in upstate
NY. I was just south of Watertown NY this weekend ( Watertown is
just south of Canada near late Ontario). The wood were full of False Morels.
I picked a bunch for identification. After visiting your page, I've decided
not to eat them - although I have eaten them in Finland. The observation
that climate may have an effect on the False Morels toxicity it compelling.
Although I saw literally dozens of False Morels, I did not encounter and
'real' morels. So my question is: is there any relationship between when
False Morels come up and when the real one do? Do False Morels come up before,
after, or at the same time that Morels come up? If the answer is at the
same time, then head for the woods near Watertown, they are full of Morels!
Bernie
Date: Tue, 6 May 2003. Subject: New York Sighting. 5/3/03 - A little
late, but they have finally appeared in Rockland County New York.
A bunch of us found a few dozen under Tulip trees. Many were Morchella Semilibera,
although a few nice Esculentas were found as well. They're just Starting
to poke through the leaves. Should be great in a week or so as things warm
up. They were delicious in. Omelettes! Happy Hunting to all! - Mark
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003. Subject: NY sighting. Just had some of the fifty
beauties i found yesterday, 5-7. I am located in Mid Hudson valley south
of Saugerties. Season is late this year. Morels were half greys, half
yellows, most two to four inches. Old reliable spots are just sproutiong
a couple of small ones, but weather is perfect, and it should be a good
if late season. Happy hunting to all from shroomer Dave!
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003. Subject: 2003 sighting - NY. Went out yesterday
(5-7-03), Found 115 Blacks, 1 Yellow and a few semilibras. This is the first
I have looked since last tuesday (4-30-03)- There were none up then. Looks
like it will be another good year although the season is late here in Northern
Westchester County, New York. Stopped by the deli on my way to the house
and they weighted in at 2.7 Lbs. Lots of rain last night so this weekend
should be pretty good. Happy Hunting! - Chris
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003. Subject: N Y sighting. Found about fifty, 2 -
5 inches tall, half of 'em greys, other half yellows, on 5-7-03. Season
is late, but ground looks excellent, and weather has been moist and drizzly,
in a word, perfect, so I'm still VERY optimistic. Checked all my hot spots,
but none popped yet, only the fifty I found in a new spot I scouted this
past winter. Going out the minute this mail is sent to re-check. Happy hunting
to all, from shroomer Dave, south of Saugerties in the Mid Hudson Valley.
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003 21:51:50 -0400. Subject: Upstate NY morels.
Found these three yesterday afternoon in the old orchard on our property
in Schoharie, NY. A closer look today revealed another dozen or so more
tiny morels emerging from the ground. The woods have been covered in false
morels for about the past week, but these are the first true morels I have
found this year. Ryan
Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 21:34:25 -0400. Subject: Date 5/8/03 Morels up!
A number of blacks are up in my back yard (woody)! Same as last year
though not same exact spots. Where? Upstate New York near New Lebanon.
Oh joy! - H.S
From: Leonard V. Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 06:00:13 -0400. Subject:
finding some finally. Upstate N.Y., starting to find some yellows
around the Seneca Falls area. About a dozen last evening. The first
of the season. Hopefully the start of many more to come!.
Date: Tue, 13 May 2003 10:30:08 -0400. Subject: morel sightings in NY.
Rockland County New York. On May 12, I found 27 3-5 inch yellow morels
growing around apple tree stumps in a local orchard. They were healthy
and clean. They were also delicious in a cream sauce over asparagus! Peter
Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: Morel in my yard? I live in the mid-Hudson
Valley of NY, about 120 miles due North of NYC. I found this fungus
in my yard, looks like a true black morel. Here's some pics. Found it today,
May 15, 2003. We have two American Elms in our yard, I read that the morel
is associated with these trees. Mike
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: NY sightings. It's been one of the better
seasons in recent years here in the mid hudson valley south of Saugerties
New York. I've averaged two hundred beauties a day for the last five
days, 5-9 to 5-14. They've been mostly esculenta, with about a third augusticeps,
very meaty this year, four to five inches average, with some seven inchers
and even a few bigger. Best hauls were in three overgrown (understatement)
orchards I prospected over the winter. Haven't seen many just popped, could
be season is winding down. If so it was late, short, and sweet. Supposed
to rain tonight, and stay cool, so we'll see. Ate the biggest ones stuffed
with parm and bacon tonight. Man, these are sure some tasty shrooms!!!!!
From: Dan R. Date: Thu, 15 May 2003. Subject: 2003 sightings.
5/15/2003 Tons and tons of black morels this year- I haven't tried them
so I guess they'll just keep growing. The woods are filled with yellows
here in Syracuse NY, I've picked a few dozen so far to eat, but theres
way more out there than I know what to do with - I've still got some dried
ones leftover from last year!Happy Hunting!
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 17:36:05 EDT. Subject: morel update. western
ny. genesee county. first morels of the year after a 2 day rain spell.
2-3 inches high and 1-2 across. can send pics after first harvest. 63 found
on site last year( 5-5-02 thru 5-24-02). overgrown apple orchards lightly
cleared of brush. smd 1024.
From: Smd. Date: Mon, 26 May 2003 14:16:41 EDT. Subject: Re: morel
update. May 26, 2003 NY. Genesee County. Overgrown apple orchards.
57 at last count.
Date: Wed, 28 May 2003 21:20:35 -0400. Subject: morel findings. I live
about 10 minutes south of Lake George, New York. For the past two
weeks, we've found a lot of both black and yellow morels. On May 28, my
son found an 8-inch yellow morel growing in our neighbor's yard. Julie
H
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2003 22:47:25 EDT. Subject: Morel Sightings. May
4-10, Akron, OH 44321. May 18-27, Bristol, NY (about 10 miles South of Canandaigua,
SE of Rochester). Just found the MorelMania site. Great job! You've
answered many of my Morellish questions! Best, Matt M.
North Carolina:
Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 18:43:54 -0400. Subject: First Smoky Mt.Sightings.
Mark and Marina R., Cherokee, NC. These were found today, Sunday, 4/6/03.
Rattlesnake Mt.,Swain County of the Cherokee Indian Reservation, In the
Great Smoky Mt.s in Western North Carolina.
North Dakota:
Date: Fri, 23 May 2003 15:19:03 -0500. Subject: North Dakota.
Happy to report that North Dakota is reporting . Went to the turtle mountains
on the border on 5/20. Found 55 yellow and blacks in about an hour. all
around one dead aspen in the grass. Nice size 3" to 5" Going
back up this saturday with my Wife and four girls should make a killing.
wish me luck... Ed
Ohio:
From: "Top Dogs- Craig & Tammi". Date: Tue,
25 Mar 2003 13:08:53 -0500. Subject: HUNT. Annual Ross County
Sportsman and Wildlife Association Mushroom Hunt. April 26th, 2003.
SIGN UP IS FREE. Sign up starts at 8:00 a.m. Check in at 3:00 p.m. Held
at new location. Ross County Sportsman club house, Musselman Mill Road,
Chillicothe, Ohio (watch for signs) Soup, Hot Dogs, Pop available -
Donations accepted. can e-mail questions to topdog2@bright.net
Date: Wed, 2 Apr 2003 16:29:29 EST. Subject: Morel sighting - Ohio. This
is Dave R. I just got back in from 12 miles east of Chillicothe,
Ohio. I found 15 black morels that ranged from 3/8 to 3/4 inch tall.
(I left most of them there to grow up!) They're just getting started and
we're expecting perfect conditions for the next few days. I'll go out again
on Friday and should have a mess for dinner! You'll find a picture of four
of them attached to this e-mail. Let the madness begin in Ohio!!!
From: Stanley S, Date: Thu, 3 Apr 2003 13:58:46 -0800 (PST). Subject:
ramps/wild leeks. No mushrooms yet, but did find some Ramps/Wild leeks.Central
ohio.
Date: Sat, 5 Apr 2003 12:06:27 -0800. found 2 blacks in north eastern
Ohio,humidity great temps alittle cool Thanks, Kelly
Date: Wed, 9 Apr 2003. Subject: Morel sighting - Ohio. This is Dave
R again. Against my better judgement, I went hunting even with the cold
weather we've had for the past week. I came home with 16 black morels up
to 3-1/2" tall from 12 miles east of Chillicothe, Ohio!!! Things
should get real good when the weather warms up later this week. I can't
wait!
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 20:26:29 EDT. Subject: morel findings. 4-12-03.
Found 20 blacks from 3/4 inch to 2 1/2 inches, Tar Hollow, Ohio.
Supposed to have nice weather this week, should be good next weekend. Happy
Huntings! Bryon T. (the mushroom man)
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 10:23:44 EDT. Subject: No Morels Yet. Hi Tom,
I went out to my best Blacks spot, looked dry and has been a little cold.
I've been hunting morels all my life of (43 years) the most we've ever found
was 110 lbs in northern MI. I'm reporting from south east OH, Montgomery
County. I will keep you informed. Happy Hunting!!! Larry. Hi
Larry, My friends in Michigan tell me that is how they know it is time to
begin . . . when the see all the vehicles with Ohio license plates parked
along the road ; )
From: Mike. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 10:34:46 EDT. Subject: first
morel. found first sponge april 13, my birthday in woods behind house
in milford ohio (northeast of cincy) was dark brown right next to elm
tree looking for more this afternoon.
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 21:23:47 -0400. Subject: Hello from Ohio. 4/14/03.
Hi, I've probably glossed over your site a few times in the past few years,
and have gotten a kick out of some of the board postings :) I've not seen
a hint of morels yet in the southwestern Ohio region for 2003, there
hasn't been enough of a warm spell yet. Haven't been in Fayette county
yet but will be in about 1 1/2 weeks. I have one question- is there any
activity near Trotwood in Dayton (Madison County) ? I am going to
start searching in this area, but no one seems to be interested in the subject,
from the questions I've asked from the locals. Apparently there is a lot
of Sycamore here, and cedar. I've seen quite a few elm, but it is still
a bit early due to the frosting & the late 30 degree weather. I actually
live in Clinton county, but I don't hunt here. ( LOL ) actually,
I really do not hunt here. Although I've heard the Cowan Lake area is
productive, I have other places that I find to be better. Feel free
to post anything I've said, I'm comfy in protecting my private hunting spots.
Thanks for providing the site !!! Scott
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: Ohio Sighting. Tom, 18 April,
2003 in Miami County, Ohio. I had just been in a new spot for about
10 minutes when my two daughters and I spotted 2 half-free morels. We got
on the cell phone to thumb our noses at my wife, who is out of state at
the moment. While on the phone, the girls found 4 more, for a total of six.
Thought we were in for quite a day, but that was it. Found them in a patch
of level timber, where the may apples are well established and the wild
flowers have taken off. Just got some rain today, but it is supposed to
cool off again, so who knows if we will have a decent season or not. Todd
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. 4/20/03. Found 127 greys on a north facing hillside
in Knox township, Vinton county, Ohio, today. Some quite small,
some 4-5 inches. Most really fresh. Mark
From: Kelzdad. Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: 4-20-20 pike
county, ohio. walking around an area being select-cut on my property,
i found 5 whites growing just underneath the crest of a ridge. i'm ready
to roll now. supposed to go tomorrow w/buddy larry and now have high hopes.
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: sighting I found my first grey in my
front yard next to the mulch we put down last year. Was about 2" high.
Spotted it looking out the window. I live in Piqua , Ohio(30 miles N.
of Dayton) Still pretty dry here but with the rain coming they should
be popping soon. Karen V
Date: Friday April 18 From Mark P: Sad to here about Larry Lonik.
Met him a couple of years ago at the Trail of Tears lodge. He was very knowlegable
and very giving in is information about "Morels". He will be sorely
missed. Found a few grays (5) in central "Ohio" (Champaign
County) that are "thumb nail size" and will be picking size
in a day or two . Rained here overnight and conditions are just starting
to get optimal.
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: More Greys. We have been finding more
greys in our area. We live in Piqua (30 miles north of Dayton Oh)
We found about half in our front yard . In 2 days we have found about 38,
some were not real big as you can see. Karen V
Found 7 Blacks and 2 small spikes in Miami Township, Ohio... South
of Dayton... This rain should help but the cold weather won't break
till this weekend. Joe D
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: Ohio Morels. I found a dozen or so morels
Tuesday morning "somewhere in Clermont County". They were
a mix of blacks and half free mushrooms. I'm "gimped" up on my
foot, so I can't get to my favorite spots. I found them while walking along
a road... Regards, Marty C
From: barb. Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: morels. Hi from Clinton
County Ohio...My husband and I found 25 grey morels on April 21st, and
around 40 spikes on April 22. The greys were pretty small, but around here
if you leave em the next guy doesn't, so we picked em..Agree with Scott
from Clinton County...not much in Cowan Lake park, but do know that there
are spots in that area where they are prolific..go figure
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: South Dayton, Ohio.. Miamisburg.
Tuesday evening, 4-23...Found about 15 small spikes on North facing hill,
walked over to my "sure" spot and found 3 gorgeous Morels.. This
morning, 4-24 went to a local park and cleaned up on 22 very nice Morels
as well... Lets the Games Begin!!!!!! Thank you, Joe D .
From: Buddywisor. Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 13:38:41 EDT. Subject:
morels in n.w.ohio. a co-worker found 6 greys about 2 inches tall
over by bloomdale, ohio thursday april 24th
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 08:37:52 EDT. Subject: Pike co, Ohio Update,
Red False. Couple of things to report: Larry and I went on the 21st to one
of my favorite hilltops. we each found 2 lbs. each (sorry didn't
count mine). Mostly blacks and all of which had been up for a while. We
only found 4-5 fresh ones. As this is one of our most productive areas for
blacks it may be too late for many more. There were 8-10 whites and all
were fresh. Part 2 of the story deals with a minor education i gained from
this site. On the 24th I hunted a spot behind our local bowling alley
'just for the heck of it'. Used to be an old pallet mill alongside Crooked
Creek. I thought i might find some whites as this is in the Scioto
river flood plain. After harvesting a Prostaff #3 golf ball I looked
around for others (they grow from 'mats' as well) I spied a large reddish
brown glob. There were four Gyromitra Caroliniana growing, each about the
size of a softball. I picked them for show and tell and was scientifically
curious as to the reaction they would bring in the bowling alley cocktail
lounge (think beer trough) because there is an abundance of expert opinion
on tap. Now i was armed with the knowledge (99% sure) that these were Red
False Morels based upon Morel Mania's related pictures/articles and Mushroomexpert.com's
more scientific pictures/articles I had read only the day before! I also
knew the apparent debate over edibility. The responses ranged from "What
the @$#% are those" and "I'll eat em" to a bleary eyed stare.
The former response was the norm. All found them interesting and most were
disappointed but agreed that we shouldn't eat them. Upon finding out I wasn't
going to batter them and pop 'em in the deep fryer the "I'll eat em"
faction quickly teamed with the bleary eyed starers and a fairly sullen
time was had by all. Someone stole the Prostaff. The major point being is
that thanks to this site and Mushroomexpert.com I knew what I had. Prior
to Wednesday those red blobs could have been Equine Poopus as easily as
Gyromitra Caroliniana. I personally would never eat something that hadn't
been confirmed by others I trust. Not to say that had I grown up around
regular consumption of False Reds I wouldn't eat them - they were beautiful
and massive but I'm not starting now. Anyway, thanks for the information
and especially your forum. If I find any more False Reds, I'll repeat this
experiment at the true local Mushroom HQ for Pike County, The Grove.
The only modification will be in product delivery: I'll throw them in the
door and observe from outside! Good huntin all! Tim
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 20:40:29 -0400. Hello all, ...The shrooms are
up in ashland co , ohio.....Brother and myself found 68 so far.....We
would have found more, but someone else beat us to em......Oh well, Early
bird gets the shrooms...Goin out tomorrow to hopelly find a bunch more......We
need some rain.....Happy shroomin all !!!!!! --- james w.
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 09:24:37 -0400. Subject: Morel Report. South
Dayton, Ohio. Cleaned up on every species this weekend...Saturday afternoon;
27 Snake Heads; 8 Blacks; 6 Grays; 4 Yellows... Sunday, hit 5 baseball size
yellows..... I was told Ohio's season may be like this, all of them up at
the same time...Any comments welcome... Thank you, Joe D.
From: Top Dogs- Craig & Tammi. Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003. Subject:
Re: hunt results. Pictured here are the winners of the 2003 Annual Mushroom
Hunt held by the Ross County Sportsman and Wildlife Assoc. on April 26 We
had a total of 56 people register to hunt. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU! From left
are; Mike Hedrick,(first place, most mushrooms) Joey Demint,(first place
youth, biggest & second place youth most ) Twana Demint,(first place
biggest mushrooms) Patty Gifford,(second place most mushrooms) Jessica Miller,(winner
scavenger hunt) George Terry Jr.,(first place youth, most &second place
youth biggest) John Potts (second place biggest mushroom)
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2003. Subject: Morel sighting - Dayton, OH area.
Hello all! I finally found my first find of the year! :) Our very lucrative
spot was torn down by construction a few years ago and we have been desperate
for a new spot but nothing compares. Anyway, throughout the new houses that
they built, some small areas of woods remain. And today I tromped my happy
butt right through their yards and to "my woods", lol. It was
half dark when I got there but I still managed to find 7 sponges! 6 were
yellows, believe it or not, and 1 grey. All of them were only 1" to
2" tall including the stem, but heck, I'm happy. I am quite confused
though about why I found baby yellows but no blacks or spikes - maybe it
was too dark to notice them? Well this is my post so far, and if anyone
in the Dayton area knows a good spot that they don't hunt anymore PLEASE
let me know.......Thanks :) Thia <Lexysmommie99@aol.com> Can
you add my email to the sightings page? I am in the Dayton area in Miami
Twp. and the mushrooms were found in Washington Twp.
From: Rick. Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003 21:04:59 -0400. Subject: shrooms rising.
Hi ya'll. Trickster here to let you know the greatest mushroom in
the world is up and doing well right now in Adena, Ohio. The nice
warm rain that just came through will produce conditions for a record harvest
this year. It's 9:00 PM and you can hear the the mushrooms cracking through
the ground. Better get my bags and get ready to do some serious walking
& carrying. Bye now, have a good season! Be safe & careful.
From: Todd N. Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003 17:18:54 -0400. Subject:
central ohio [Lancaster]. Found these on the 21st of April. This
was the first good batch for a quick hunt.
Date: Thu, 1 May 2003 14:34:55 EDT. Subject: Ohio Morels. Went out Saturday
4/27 with Dad and Grandpa. Went to our spot in Guernsey Co. Found
40 greys in the spot that produced the largest morels I've ever seen last
year. I'll be hitting that spot again this weekend. Some appeared dry. Then
came home (Medina County) and hit some spots passed down to me from
the family elders. Found 21 small greys. Gave them all to the elders due
to finding the 40 earlier in the day and their graciousness of passing down
the spot. It's still early here in Medina County so I'll be hitting it again
this weekend. Brett.
From: Karen V. Date: Sun, 4 May 2003 10:07:06 -0400. Subject:
Big Yellows are out. These were found in some woods across from the river
in Miami County. The largest one was 9" tall They were all pretty
good sizes. Really popping around here. The rain really helped.
From: Osurocko. Date: Tue, 6 May 2003. Subject: Mushrooms, Richland
County Ohio. Hope I am doing this right. Went out tonight after work
and found a few huge yellows. Several others also. I am sending a picture.
Love the web site
From: LarWich. Date: Tue, 6 May 2003. Subject: Finley found some.
Well, it finely happened today my brother and I checked our favorite woods
again. But today when we got home we had a variety pack with 30 shrooms
in all. Some blacks.grays,yellows and browns. We are going to check another
woods tomorrow and will let you know how we did.we are located near youngstown
Ohio
From: Neil. Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 08:15:38 -0700 (PDT). Subject:
N.E. Ohio. May 3rd. Sandy's Scouts are hard at work. We found
52 grays and yellows in Ashtbula county - a bit over one pound. As
of may 8th we also picked about 3/4 lb. in various woods in Summit Co.
including 15 half-frees. Heading back out for more in the days to come.
Good luck to all you N.E. Ohio shroomers!
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 16:57:05 -0700. Subject: last finding of the year
went out for about 3 hrs and only found 3 old dried yellows on 5-9-03. i'm
pretty sure this is the end of the season. we found them just north of
franklin county, ohio. best of luck to anyone north who is still lucky
enough to continue hunting! GO BUCKS!!!, Scha4one and Fat
From: chadw. Date: Thu, 29 May 2003 21:48:18 -0400. Subject:
Ohio mushrooms. How 'bout these for morels?We found them "somewhere
in Clermont County". I think it was the first week in May. We only
picked the small ones Bwahahaha!!!
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2003 22:47:25 EDT. Subject: Morel Sightings. May
4-10, Akron, OH 44321. May 18-27, Bristol, NY (about 10 miles South of Canandaigua,
SE of Rochester). Just found the MorelMania site. Great job! You've
answered many of my Morellish questions! Best, Matt M.
Oklahoma:
From: Carolyn M. Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2003 10:43:17 -0600. We found
one. Lincoln County, Oklahoma, we found our first very small gray,
we are getting very excited to get on the hunt. We will see you in may at
the big hunt in Illinois.
Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2003 18:08:41 EST. Morels in Oklahoma. I found 5 morels
in central Oklahoma near the South Canadian River on Mon., 3/17/03.
This is the earliest that I have ever them here, but the weather has been
so warm (above 70 for 5 or 6 days in a row), I figured I could find a few.
Two more weeks and there should be a bunch. JKS Oklahoma
From: King. Date: Fri, 21 Mar 2003 23:14:22 EST. 21 small to medium
reds.osage county ok.
Date: Sun, 23 Mar 2003 15:25:25 EST. Subject: mushrooms.
Hi this is S .KING from oklahoma .We found some small whites here
in washington co .sat 22 march of 2003 at 4 oclock pm.
Date: Sun, 23 Mar 2003 21:41:38 -0600. Rodney & Sandy Paden
of "The National Morel Mushroom Hunters Association" picked 51
small gray's on March 20th, Southern Oklahoma. They left the smaller
ones to grow until next week. Saturday LeRoy & Judy picked 7 raisin
size x-small gray's & left the rest to grow in Central Oklahoma.They
are in protected area's that are expecting more rain. Judy
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 07:22:51 -0800. Subject: Morels. Went to a place
40 feet off the road in the town where I live where I've found 5-7 (total)
in the last 3 years. One 2" gray was poking through the leaves! It's
time to hit the woods!!! Found in south central OK. Kevin
Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2003 16:35:32 EST. We went looking again today and ran
upon 8 reds here in washington co oklahoma , MONDAY MARCH 24 2003
, 4OCLOCK PM. S.KING
Date: Wed, 26 Mar 2003 06:37:28 -0800. Subject: grays.
a cousin and I found 73 grays Tuesday in south-central OK. Kevin
From: Randy M. Date: Wed, 26 Mar 2003 17:55:32 -0800 (PST). Subject:
Oklahoma Find! Found 61 today mostly small grays but some yellows!! Just
east of Midwest City OK.
From: J. KING. Date: Wed, 26 Mar 2003 21:24:39 EST. found 18 reds.
6 were pretty good size.hopefully whites, yellows & blacks close behind.
need more rain & warmer night temps.osage co. oklahoma
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 17:13:59 EST. Subject: Oklahoma
Morels. We found 13 good sized yellow morels SE of Wanette along the
South Canadian River. All were in good shape and looked like they hadn't
been up very long. Good luck MrDtired
Date: Sun, 30 Mar 2003. hello this is j. king.yesterday me, s.
king & a friend from kansas found14 new ones. those added to the 18
i found on the 26th & left to get bigger made a good mess. still need
more rain!! good luck to all.j. king osage co. oklahoma
Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. Subject: Morels. Found 25 baseball sized
yellow Morels in central Oklahoma near the South Canadian River.
It may not seem like that much, but they weighed almost 4 pounds total!
Good luck all! JKS Oklahoma.
Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003. found 13 reds today.still need rain.j.king
osage co.oklahoma
Date: Tue, 01 Apr 2003. Subject: Grey Morels up in West Tulsa. Sun. March
30, 2003 - 4:00 p.m. Found 14 greys and 1 medium Yellow just west of
Tulsa. The big Yellows should be up by next weekend. Good Hunting! JSH
Date: Tue, 1 Apr 2003 23:55:10 -0500. Subject: morel find.
April 1, 9 yellow 2 grey tulsa area. buckeye dave
From: Kugradu. Date: Wed, 02 Apr 2003 11:26:11 -0500. Subject:
Morel finds in OK found a bakers dozen in Broken Arrow (just south of
Tulsa) 8 yellows and 5 whites.
Date: Wed, 02 Apr 2003 15:15:28 -0600. Subject: morels Date: Tuesday,
April 2 2003. Found 5 yellow morels today in Stillwater, OK. With
a little rain and the current temperatures, they should start coming up.
Can't wait. B.Franklin
Date: Fri, 4 Apr 2003 12:46:29 -0600. Subject: Northeastern Oklahoma.
Monday, March 31, 2003 13 gray Morels were found by Bob in Northeastern
Oklahoma... kent
Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 16:28:12 EDT. Subject: The Motherlode find in
Central Okloma on April 4 and April 5, by Father and Son. I just
flew home from Columbus, Ohio to see my dad and mom in central Oklahoma.
I flew out Thursday, April 3rd. Dad and I planned on going to hunt shrooms
on Friday April 4th and Saturday April 5th. I have hunted mushrooms in Ohio
for about 6 years now and have had some nice finds. I have read about all
the great Mushrooms in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Let me say
this for the record. I will put OKLAHOMA up against any state when it comes
to "huntin shrooms". (If you don't believe me, look at the pics
I have attached). I really didn't know what we were both in store for the
2 days of shroom hunting but we soon found out,,,This past weekend is a
weekend that I will always remember and if you are true MUSHROOM hunter
then you will be envious big time. It was even better because we got to
do this as Father and Son. I am 27 years old and dad is 51, and he can keep
up all day long....Let me cut to the chase....We found a total (hand counted
to prove) of 925 Mushrooms in 2 days in central Oklahoma...That is right,
we found about 25 pounds worth of mushrooms in two days,,,,,,,,.The pics
speak for themselves.....Great Website and thanks for listening to this
story.....Gary Jr. and Gary Sr. PS,,,,Pic One is the first day find
of 575 SHROOMS and pic two is the second find of 350 SHROOMS,,,,
Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 19:27:45 -0700 (PDT). Subject: first find of year.
looking for two weeks-- my first find today: a solitary "white",
perfect condition, 3-4 inches tall, Creek county, Ok. creekside in sycamore
grove. There's got to be more! -- dean m., tulsa, ok.
From: Andrew V. Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 10:40:45 -0600 (MDT) Subject:
NE Oklahoma Morels. Visited Delaware County (NE Oklahoma) to hunt
morels April 4,5 - only found three yellows around Lake Eucha after significant
effort. The consensus from myself and other hunters I ran across was that
they were not up in great numbers in the area yet. The area got some rain
as I was leaving on Sunday April 6 so maybe that will do the trick. Good
luck to all. I'll be waiting for the Colorado season to start. A. Voss.
Denver, CO
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: More Morels in West Tulsa, OK.
Thurs. April 3 and Sat. April 5, 2003 Found 20 yellows and greys during
a light sprinkle on Thurs. Found approximately 70 yellows and blacks on
Saturday. With lots of rain on Sat. night and cooler temps for the first
part of the week, this coming weekend should produce a bumper crop. Good
Hunting! JSH
Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: tulsa area getting started. found eight
esculenta in Bixby area yesterday (south Tulsa). 3 were mature,
the rest slightly immature. Most were in grassy places on edge of woods
(sunny spots}. Still finding none north or west of tulsa. I hope the results
in central Ok. migrate this way--after this cold spell. dean m. --
tulsa
Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 21:54:45 -0500. Subject: Shroom Sighting. A friend
(who had never seen mushrooms in the wild) and I found 27 yellow morels
on April 9 in central Oklahoma (right in Oklahoma City). We had had
several days in the 70's and I wanted my friend to see for himself. First
ones he ever ate, too. He loved them and I believe we'll be going back for
more. Happy Hunting! Bob from Midwest City, Ok
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 00:47:34 EDT. OH YES!!found 84 good ones today.
j.king osage co.oklahoma
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 17:16:07 -0700 (PDT). Subject: morels in tulsa
area. still finding small numbers of morels around tulsa area-- fri.
4/11 4 small ones in tulsa city limits; 6 in bixby area. today,
6 near Okmulgee (banks of red fork river). all of these under mixed hardwoods.
dean m., tulsa
From: John. Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 20:21:50 -0500. Subject: Is
this a morel? This is my first attempt at morel hunting in 30 years. I found
your site when I returned to the house. I found these North of Tulsa
today. The little yellow/white one is the kind we gathered in the old days.
The big red one seems to be a relative. Can you tell me what it is? I would
like a quick answer, as I left several like it in the woods. This was the
smallest. If these are edible, I will go back and get the others tomorrow.
I will make an entry in your sightings page after I identify the red mushroom.
I hope it is a good one, as this was the smallest of about 6 or 8 that are
growing under an old dead oak tree. Hi John, The picture
at the right (yellow one) is a true edible morel. The first two pictures
are of a Gyromitra Caroliniana, which is one of the "false" morels.
All true morel have three characteristics: They have the sponge cap, they
are completely hollow (the gyromitra isn't hollow, as per the second picture),
and the cap and stem are connected to each other at the base of the cap.
I would not eat it, although many people would. We had a complete discussion
on the Sightings page a week ago. You can see it in the Arkansas postings
at http://www.morelmania.com/site03.html#anchor8452235
From: Dean M. Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 15:19:09 -0700 (PDT) Subject:
more in tulsa. found 6 in tulsa today in beautiful condition despite
80+ degree temps and strong winds past few days. these m. esculentae were
growing on or near gravel paths and grass on north side of steep hill
(protected from south wind).
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: (no subject). went out yesterday not
really expecting to find any.to dry.but, found 14 yellows by fallen electrical
poles.we got a real good rain last night & this morning.so hopefully
they'll really be a poppin in a day or so.j.king osage co.oklahoma.
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003. Subject: Oklahoma season over or just gettin
hot? found a single yellow on creekbank today in Guthrie, oklahoma (Logan
County). In a spot that usually produces fair numbers. Think i must be too
late-- yet i hear of folks still finding sacks of huge ones in both central
and NE Oklahoma. dean m., tulsa
From: Carolyn. Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Hey, Tom, this is the central
Oklahoma people that is going to come to your great Illinois mushroon
hunt in Magnolia, what us rednecks here wants to know is, can we bring our
own trained Armadillo to the mushroom hunt. We have spent some valuable
time getting this critter trained to hunt the mighty morels, and we sure
would like to bring him along for the trip.
Hi Carolyn, Looking forward to meeting you. Unfortunately,
we've had to turn down some people with Shroom Dogs (too messy on the rented
buses), so we probably can't allow any other critters either. The only possibility
would have been to disguise it as a human and pay the extra entry fee. But,
we reached the 516 maximum this morning so the entries are closed. But even
then, it every person (critter) for themselves and it probably wouldn't
have shared the prizes with you anyway. We've seen them Oklahoma Armadillos
before, they get kind of independent once they get east of the Mississippi!
Tom
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: mushrooms. still finding them . sat
,april 19th ,found 2 yellows,2 whites , 11 blacks & easter found 12
more blacks here in washington co,oklahoma ,S.KING
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. my daughter natasha & i found 8 good yellows
on easter. i found 10 yellows the next day.j.king osage co. oklahoma
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 18:25:28 -0700 (PDT). Subject: more(l) in Tulsa.
thought season was over-- out jogging yesterday and spotted a "big
foot" on edge of wooded lot. broke down and bought a pound of
fresh ones for $29 at local deli--they said they were from "north
of Bartlesville" (north of Tulsa). Dean M. Tulsa, OK.
Ontario, Canada:
Date: Tue, 6 May 2003. Subject: Ontario Canada. Report Southwestern
Ontario-May 6th, 2003. I moved to this area last August and have anxiously
awaited Morel Season. As an Ohio native I've found many, many over the years.
However I haven't found the first Morel here in Canada yet. I am hunting
some "prime" area and I'm sure that within the week, the first
ones should be coming up. I'll keep you posted. Ohio Transplant. Rex
B
Date: Wed, 7 May 2003 19:19:09 -0700. Subject: Ontario morels. Hi,seeing
no one in Ontario has sent in a sighting, i`ll be the first.This spot i
know south of little britain, i`ve got black morels coming up.Not
to many, but i`m hopeing for more and will look for more knowing they are
around. Best of hunting.......Frank
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003 22:16:50 -0400. Subject: My first find of 2003.
This year the season is a couple of weeks late. Found 18 Morchella Elata(black)
today may 8, in Aspen trees forest. One was 4'' the other couple
inches, but all very fresh had just come out. Location south of Ontario
50 kms out of Toronto. Umberto P.
Date: Sun, 11 May 2003 19:15:35 +0000. Subject: Report: Ontario, Canada.
Hello MorelMania! Thanks for running a "sightings" board! We just
wanted to drop a note to say that we found some small false morels in Maskinonje
Provincial Park on May 4th. We've been searching oh so hard for Real
Morels, but have yet so find them anywhere. Jeremy and Lucy
From: Rex & Colleen. Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 08:17:47 -0400.
Subject: Morels in Southern Ontario. Well, its finally happened here.
Found my first blacks Sunday May, 11th under dead elms. Not too many
as I think the seasons just starting here. I will update further.
From: Rex & Colleen. Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 13:16:05 -0400.
Subject: Found. Went back out today South of London Ontario and found
a few more blacks. Its early here yet and the seasons just beginning. Rex
B. May 12th
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: Morel Season/Ontario, Canada. May 16/03:
Looking mainly north of Toronto, about 30 mins from the city. Found
some large orange Gyromitra, and was wondering if anybody thinks that Gyromitra
and Morels come up at the same time, or if one will show up before the other.
Trying to time this right, lots of ground to cover! Interested in feedback
from others around Toronto. Will spend this weekend looking very carefully,
all this rain and good weather to follow make me think it's almost time....
Tara
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: Update: found REAL morels! Well, my
friend Kev beat me to them with a half-free morel spotted in North Bay,
Ontario on May 14. I found four black morels nearby on May 15th, and
getting excited for a season that I'm sure will escalate! Jeremy
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003 17:14:25 -0600. Hi, I was wondering if you could
identify this mushroom for me ... they were found growing next to a batch
of white morels... thank you. Mark F. essex county ontario canada. It is a morchella semilibera or half-free morel. It is
a true morel and edible. It is also known by many other names - some of
which can't be repeated in a family column because the names are phallic
in nature. I does have a look-alike, the verpa bohemica. They main distinguishing
characteristic between the two is that the semilibera is completely hollow
and the verpa has a cottony substance inside the stem.
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 13:53:09 -0400. Subject: Morels popping everywhere.
Greetings from South Central Ontario. Well, this past week has brought
them on full swing here in my area. I am South of London Ontario Canada.
We are finding lots of Yellows under Dead Elm trees. Hope everyone
is having a great Spring......May 12th thru May 18th 2003. Rex B
Date: Tue, 20 May 2003 09:32:36 -0400. Subject: Ontario morels.
May18-17 Ontario 10km North of Barrie a lot of all types of . I found
approximately 35 lbs. of them. Alexsander B.
From: Richard K. Date: Wed, 21 May 2003 12:26:40 -0400. Subject:
Common Morels in Ontario. As a relatively 'green' forager, I considered
Morels to be the Holy Grail of wild edibles. Today I found 17 Common Morels
(fzrom 1 1/2'' to 5") while out digging Ramps in Prince Edward County,
Ontario.
Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 16:38:07 -0400. Subject: Morel Sighting-Ontario.
Date: Saturday, 17 May 2003 08:00. Subject: My first find ever!! I stumbled
(literally) over these while working the May long weekend. I found about
3 dozen Black Morels this morning. They were located under or around
Spruce trees. Some were coming up at the edge of a grassy area and
the nearby Spruce needles. Most were approx. 4"-6" high. A
couple were smaller and round-not-cone shaped. I spoke to locals about my
find and was told they find them regularly up here. Next year I'll bring
a camera and show the environment they were sprouting in. Location: Ontario's
Bruce Peninsula 10 km from Sauble Beach. HM
From: Rex & Colleen. Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 20:48:06 -0400.
Subject: Morels still flourishing in Ontario Canada. May 22, 2003- Huron
County, Ontario........ Drove an hour and a half North today and found
nice Yellows around dead Ash trees.
Date: Sat, 24 May 2003 18:22:59 -0400 Subject: Morel morning. This morning,
not to far out of London,Ontario,I found 53 beautiful commons in
90 mins..The even better news is that there were lots of little ones just
popping out for next weekend.JIM S.
From: Rex & Colleen. Date: Tue, 27 May 2003 08:06:35 -0400.
Subject: Southern Ontario Report. May 26th, 2003...... Found 210 Big Yellows
around Dead Elm. Elgin County, Ontario
Date: Wed, 28 May 2003 17:37:05 -0400. Sightings. Toronto Ontario
Canada May 28 2003 large yellow morel location My own back yard
:) dunnow how they got there. stef
From: Henry & Andrea. Date: Wed, 28 May 2003 22:19:06 -0400.
Subject: Sighting in Ontario. My second ever find and within a two
weeks of my first. See my Black Morel find, near Sauble Beach. This
evening (Wednesday, May 28th) I found three Yellow Morels near the stump
of an Elm I cut down last fall. Right on the edge of my driveway. They
are 2"-4" in height. The weather has been wet for the last few
weeks with 2 or 3 warm days on average per week. Nights have been cool (Down
to 3 Celsius the other night). We had thunderstorms this past weekend. The
pics included show four of the Blacks I found (dried now) and the three
yellows I found this evening. The yellows were found just outside of
Baxter (Halfway between Angus and Alliston). Good Hunting!
From: "Rex & Colleen" Date: Fri, 30 May 2003 07:18:05
-0400. Subject: Ontario Canada. May 30th 2003. Still finding Morels. All
dead Elm. Trees on North slopes and in shade are now producing. I also
found 1 in my front yard. We are at about 40 pounds this year so
far. JIM S., if you visit again, please contact me via EMAIL to Morel Mania.
Would like to talk to someone near London. All mushrooms have been found
in Elgin County.
Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 17:14:39 -0400. Subject: One day good, another
not. I found a new patch yesterday a half hour away from London, Ont.
I found 10 yellows still good to pick and about 15 overly mature falling
to their side slug food ones that I left to spread spore.Today I went east
of London and found nothing . I think the season may be coming to a close
around here. Jim S.
From: Rex & Colleen. Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 21:16:55 -0400.
Subject: Morels still up and fresh. June 1st, 2003. Still finding nice quantities
of Morels in Elgin County. I spent the weekend West of here near
Port Franks, South of Grand Bend and Dead Elms produced some real nice
Yellows. The weather has remained cool for the most part and the morels
are bountiful. I sit and ponder how many thousands I'm not finding. Southern
Ontario, Canada. Oh, and Tom, I want to personally thank you for including
Canada on your sighting boards. Rex
Oregon:
From: CBloch. Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 00:45:22 EST. Subject:
report from Oregon! There Hear! There Hear! There Hear! There Hear!
There Hear! not just hear but there and there and there. Best season
in the 10 years looking. I first spotted them last Thurs. 3/21/03 my permit
only allows for taking 20% of a colony but in the last three days I've collected
over 15 lb. in an area only 2 acres big! I don't Know if that's good for
other parts of the country but for Oregon it, s wonderful I decided to dry
some for storage this year. do you Know if this will work I don't want to
lose any of that distinct flavor. Some are black and some yellow. Do you
know any thing about what I've heard called Early morels they have the same
wrinkled cap but a long hollow stem about 3 1/2 to 5 inches tall with the
cap separating from the stem. I've heard both Morchella
Semilibera and Verpa Bohemica referred to as "early morels" The
Morchella Semilibera or "half free" is a true morel and is often
referred to as a "peckerhead" or some other phallic conotation.
The latin term "semilibera" means half free, which describes the
cap to stem connection in that the stem goes up into the cap and connects
about half way up into the it. In other morels the stem and cap connect
at the base of the cap. The flavor is a little more bitter than the blacks,
yellows or grays so we usually don't eat them by themselves. We mix them
in with the others or add them to soup.We don't normally go hunting just
for the half-frees but if we find them we'll throw them in the sack with
the others. The stem is usually fragile and will be crumbs by the time we
return home so we usuall y just pop off the cap and save it. The Verpa bohemica
is different in that there is a cottony substance in the stem while the
M. Semilibera is completely hollow. The verpa is also called the "skirt-cap"
because the stem goes up into the cap and connects near the top of the cap
so the cap is actually sitting on top of the stem. The Verpa also does not
have true pits and ridges as the Semilibera does. The verpa cap is best
desctibed as having wrinkles and folds. I've never found a verpa in central
Illinois, but they are common in Michigan. I'm not sure which if either
you have in Oregon.
From: laetiporous sulphureus. Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 18:24:35
-0800. Subject: got a few. i found a dozen blacks in landscaped areas
today in the upper willamette valley....in oregon.
From: Matthew B. Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2003 15:16:27 -0800. Subject:
Morels in Oregon. Found a couple Morchella semilibera today ... along
the Willamette River, a little ways north of Eugene.
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2003 09:28:56 -0800. Subject: morel found in S. Oregon.
Found 1 black morel in the Siskiyou Mtns. Elevation 2,500, SW
facing slope, oak and manzanita surrounding vegetation. It's here! Joe
M.
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 17:05:07 EST. Subject: Yippee.
Well, today is March 23 and we have had a LOT of rain in the past month.
Today we decided to go look in our back yard down by the creek and under
the oak trees for our crop.Well, we sure did find them and for the first
gathering, it is great! Submitted by Merideth B. The Dalles, Oregon.
about 80 miles east of Portland!
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 19:32:11 -0800. Subject: sightings
and pickings. Hi, found a couple of pounds of yellow morels and 2 black
morels in Northern Oregon. Got em soaking at this moment and heading
to the frying pan shortly. Saw many more immature yellows, can't wait to
go back and load up in a few days. Its been very wet here the last 2 months,
and I think it will be a great year. Happy Hunting everyone! Joe
From: Matthew Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2003 Subject: Oregon. I
stumbled across a patch of Morchella elata yesterday -- right along my gravel
driveway, beneath an old laurel hedge -- Eugene, OR. They were big
ones, up to about 7" tall, but unfortunately they were all way past
their prime -- dried up and chewed up by slugs/snails. On the bright side,
now I know that I have my own personal patch!!
Date: Wed, 02 Apr 2003 07:15:40 -0800. Subject: Oregon morel sightings.
The weather has been just right for morels here in Western Oregon
the last few weeks.In the past week I have found 10 lbs of Morchella elata
in a disturbed/burned area. As soon as it warms up again start looking
at middle elevations in similiar areas in the Cascades. Good luck
Joe S.
From: Alison. Date: Tue, 08 Apr 2003. Subject: Sighting. Found
a large haul of white morels in the Willamette Valley (OR).
Found them in an open field environment peeking out from beside the long
blades of grass, mostly along the weep line of their favorite deciduous
trees. Dried most but gorged on many, sautéed in butter and
mounded on a fresh, delicious grilled buffalo steak. Unbelievable!
From: Joe M. Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 10:53:07 -0700. Subject:
white morels. Found couple dozen whites on 4/14 at edge of a large forest
fire that occurred in S. Oregan last year.
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: Sightings. Oregon - found more
black morels than our permit would allow us to gather! Found an easy gallon
per person per day for three days straight, and there were plenty left behind.
Looked to be an area that had been burned recently, in the last couple of
years or so. The ground was thick with good-sized morels, at times to the
point we didn't know where to step. Hoping to go out next weekend in case
this was only a first flush. Best hunting ever! Alison D .
From: Blackoak. Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: Oregon. Merlin, Ore.
area. MORCHELLA DELICIOSA, Home boy name "RIVERS" & "WHITES".
Found and farmed 4/10/03, Harvested and eaten 4/18/03. Drying racks and
stash are M. Esculenta var. Crassipes, Home boy name "CONICALS"
or "BLACKS". Southern Oregon fire, and logging areas are pumping
due to long rain season. Highest prices $18.00 per pound now at $8.00. Darrell
& Friends.
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2003 03:07:32 EDT. Subject: Oregon morels found in
Wilsonville. I was driving home from my work in Wilsonville, Oregon
on 4-18-2003 -- and spotted a big morel while travelling at 35MPH. I pulled
over within the city limits and picked about a pound of morels in
an area that had been landscaped with barkdust recently (probably within
the last 2 years). I found a nice variety - some petite greys, a few larger
and thicker yellows, and lots of pointy-headed blacks morels that seemed
a few days older than the rest. Mushroomer Chris E.
From: John&Mary. Date: Wed, 7 May 2003. Subject: morels in
sierra foothills. Here it is may 7 and i have found some nice yellow's
here in the "motherlode"
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 20:13:28 -0700. Subject: Ashland, Oregon Area.
Found 1 1/2 lbs of fresh gray morels May 6 in southern oregon about 4000
ft. Wonderful eating! J. F.
Pennsylvania:
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2003 06:08:42 -0500. Subject: It's about
time! Tom, We found our first two here in eastern Pa. I went out
on 3/25 and found two small ones. Found them on the sunny side. It
wasn't the mother lode but it tells me that they have come alive! Should
be a good season. It was a very cold and we had snow covering the ground
all winter long. Wishing you a banner year. That was in Westmoreland
county in Pa. Your friend, Shamey. Congratulations
Shamey! It's a beautiful picture!
Date: Wed, 02 Apr 2003 10:32:25 -0500. Subject: Morels---
can't find them here. Hi! Love your sight!!! my name is Nancy, I have recently
relocated to the Buck's county region in Pa, We had mushrooms growing
in our backyard where I come from and they usually are up in April (morels)
I can't find an area to hunt here in Pa? I do not know the area well yet
can anyone give me a heads up on where to start- I am originally from the
Blue Ridge Mountains of Va. Any help would be wonderful!! Thanks Nancy
Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 17:50:05 -0400. Tom, We just had our onion snow
three days ago and all week it has been in the 40's and overcast. My bud
and I went out this morning and lo and behold, we found these little beauties.
It looks like they come on even without that warm rain! Your friend, Shamey
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: morels. We went out for our first foray
of 2003. last Wednesday, 4/16. Walked back and forth, up and down a sunny
ridge of tulip trees, ash and oak. Covered a couple of miles of ridge; probably
about four miles of walking, taking into account the zigging ang zagging
of our path. Found one brand new black morel. The weather was hot, but it
had been quite chilly up to about the 13th. There was about 0.5" rain
on the 11th, but none after that. Went back to our spot on the 20th and
found 9 black morels. This is a slow start. Looks like this black morel
season will fall well short of last year's. Yesterday, up until now (4/22),
there's been about 0.4" of a gentle, soaking rain. Hoping that we don't
get any overnight temps in the 20s over the next few days. Dave and Karen
in Eastern Pennsylvania
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: morels are up ! April 19,2003
Today was a very warm sunny day and after getting my minds eye focused
on picturing what I was looking for; I found 20 grey morels. The woods are
still alittle dry, and a good rain should bring more up. Thank GOD for his
treasures he has given us! Skeebie, Aleppo,PA
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: First morels of the Season. Hi all,
Sherry from northwestern PA, (North Pittsburgh area) reporting
2 dozen grays under old apple trees found the saturday before Easter. Excited
for a little rain and the next few weeks to come!
From: Trusspipe. Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 14:20:11 EDT. Subject:
Morels. April, 24 2003 found 8 black morels in central Pennsylvania
Happy Hunting
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 09:26:06 -0400. Subject: morels. Went out exploring
some new spots and found 54 nice-sized black morels growing on a ridge-bottom
nearby a large ash tree. That was on 4/25. Went to my usual spot on
Sunday; found 45 small blacks and 12 half-frees. We had between 0.5"
and 0.75" of rain on Saturday. With temps warming up this week, there
should be more morels on the way here in PA. Dave in Eastern PA.
Date: Fri, 02 May 2003 09:57:10 -0400. Subject: morels in PA. Found my
first yellow morel of the season; a nice new 4" mushroom. growing by
an ash tree nearby a wetland. After a slow somewhat late start, the
black morels have done fairly well here in PA. As usual, I found almost
all of my black morels in spots where a south-facing slope bottoms out
into a forest of ash and tulip. The first ones appear at the bottoming-out
location, and subsequent fruitings occur both up the slope and on
the flats moving away from the slope. Dave in Eastern PA
From: Funkyfoochgirl. Date: Sat, 3 May 2003 15:25:48 EDT. I think
I found morel's in Lancaster, PA.
Date: Sat, 03 May 2003 20:05:34 -0400. Subject: Nancy in Bucks County
PA. Tom, This is in response to Nancy in Bucks County, PA. I too am
a transplant to Bucks County, PA. I have discovered a few spots near my
home where I have found a few half-free mushrooms. Today I found my first
"true" morel. If we get some rain in the next day or I think we
may find a few more. Please pass on my e-mail address as I would love to
hunt with someone around here. sphar
From: Ernie S. Date: Mon, 05 May 2003 05:44:49 -0400 Subject:
Bradford County, Pennsylvania. They're here! Found the first small
one on May 4th in Bradford County, Pa. Good ground moisture and warmer
temperatures are coming. Should be a good year.
From: Himaryh. Date: Thu, 8 May 2003. Subject: from Lancaster,
Pa. May 7...found patch of large light-colored morels in small wooded
area near our house in Lancaster, Pa. These were quite mature and beginning
to dry..two had mildewed areas on them. Their large size and light color
made them easy to spot, but they were in an area where briars and undergrowth
were thick. We recently relocated to the Lancaster area and I was surprised
and delighted to find morels, especially after last season's drought.
Date: Thu, 8 May 2003. Subject: Pa finds! Lehigh Valley Area.
I was at a party on May 3rd when a friend said he saw a morel in his yard.
I got over there yesterday(Wed May 7th) and found it dried and broken from
it's base. It was directly under an apple tree. I looked for other apple
trees in the area and found a patch of 3 then off in the woods away from
the orchard I found 1 single one. All were yellow. After 4 hours of searching,
it was worth it! I've been looking for these guys for years. Janet C
Date: Sun, 11 May 2003 23:31:12 EDT. Subject: Central PA. Love
your site, and use it often. Haven't come across any yet, but my fellow
shroomers have. Does anyone know if the false morels come up before the
the true morels. I have found 3 or 4 of the false ones. Thanks--L&C
Date: Sun, 11 May 2003 22:41:00 -0500. Subject: Morels in Bucks County
Pa. Finally found 'em here in the hills in Bucks County! Saturday
afternoon I found them in their usual spot, like they were waiting for me.
Its strange, but people around here don't seem to know what I'm talking
about when I say I am going to hunt morels. I am native to the area, and
in three years hunting I've only ever seen one other person out looking,
and he was from the midwest. People around here are missing out on a good
thing, I find more good hunting areas every year, all to myself. ..Geoff
P.
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 16:32:52 -0400. Subject: sighting. Sunday, May
18, 2003. This is our first year of Morel hunting. We started are morel
adventures in early April. Since we are new to Shrooming we aren't exactly
sure when to start in our area. We got skunked a few times. However, today,
we found two yellow morels. We are from Dauphin County, Pa. We hope
to find more shrooms in the near future. We love the site and find all of
your information very helpful. Thank You and Good Luck! T. S.
Date: Fri, 23 May 2003 22:53:54 -0400. Subject: Morels in Western
PA. Hello, I'm late posting this message. During the last weekend of
April, we found nearly 2 dozen large yellow morels in a new spot under
a dead tree. Beautiful specimens! Absolutely textbook perfect. My daughter
took one of the particularly nice ones (it was hard to choose) to school
to add to the science classes collection of specimens. The teacher was delighted
with it. We checked our old spots, and found a few more, but not many. We
were able to have one really good meal, and that was about it. There has
been some much rain lately and the morels we have found were spoiled from
the quantity of rain. Nevertheless, it has been a good season. We will write
again next year! Jeep in Greene County
Quebec:
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 00:46:40 EST. Subject: Morels to
come in Québec. Just a quick note here. We have a good deal of snow
melting and warming temperatures in Québec. Also, from club reports
and literature, it appears we should have a good crop of Morels here this
year. I'm keeping my eyes out. We have ideal conditions here in the Saguenay
river valley along with very good pedestrian oriented parks perfect
for mushroom hunters. Stay tuned! Marc in Chicoutimi, Québec.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 11:53:20 -0400. Subject: Canada report. Brigitte
from Montreal, Quebec, Canada. We had cold weather and rain for the
past week. When today in white ash/oak spot. No morels. Weather will
be warmer in the next few day. Expect morels in May.
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 00:46:40 EST. Subject: Morels to come in Québec.
Just a quick note here. We have a good deal of snow melting and warming
temperatures in Québec. Also, from club reports and literature, it
appears we should have a good crop of Morels here this year. I'm keeping
my eyes out. We have ideal conditions here in the Saguenay river valley
along with very good pedestrian oriented parks perfect for mushroom hunters.
Stay tuned! Marc in Chicoutimi, Québec.
Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 10:23:41 EDT. Subject: Found False Morel in Chicoutimi,
Québec. From Marc in Chicoutimi, Québec. Went mushroom
hunting casually May 8 in a park near Chicoutimi, Québec.
Found a Gyromitra (false morel) of some sort on a rotten log--half decayed.
Too far gone to identify--but definatley looked like a Gyromitra. Temps
have remained above freezing and the false morel should be a good sign that
I was hunting in the right neighborhood and that hopefully the morels are
just around the corner. I'm getting quite hopeful now. I'm pretty new in
the area. Wondering if Brigitte has had much luck in Montréal. Marc.
Date: Sun, 11 May 2003 17:00:55 -0400. Subject: Montreal report.
Well, either i'm looking in the wrong places or the morels are just not
here yet! Temperature is warming up but everything is pretty late for this
time of year (blooming, tulips, etc.). I'm going morel hunting in mixed
oaks and ash trees woods also in poplar woods. Brigitte Montréal,
Québec Canada
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 15:17:47 EDT. Subject: Gyromitras in Chicoutimi,
Québec. From Marc in Chicoutimi, Quebec. I just got back from
an outing with the local mushroom club here in the Saguenay region.
Several people found Gyromitras (false morels) but the Morels haven't appeared
yet. The club leader says that they will probably come up during this next
week. I think we just need a bit of moisture to bring them out. I'll keep
checking this week!
Saskatchewan, Canada:
No reports yet.
South Carolina:
Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2003 21:03:20 EST. South Carolina mushrooms.
hi, We started finding mushrooms on a private plantation near Charleston,
SC last week, 3/14/03. Three of us found about 95-100 in two days. It
is the closest to the coast that I can find verified in South Eastern U.S.
Most books state they don't occur in the coastal plain, but I can
now state "the books are wrong". Tim G. Tim,
we really appreaciate your report. We've read the some of the same books
and found other errors. We're glad to have a eyewitness report.
From: Craig M. Date: Wed, 19 Mar 2003 14:13:45 -0800. Subject:
Fort Mill SC 3-19-03. Been looking for a week now, no shrooms but
did see a Copperhead ! A little sunshine and it should be mushroom heaven
here.
Date: Wed, 07 May 2003 21:29:35 -0700. Subject: South Carolina Report.
Fort Mill ( Indianland) SC - found a less than a dozen this year.
However ! My father and I found about 100 on 7th of April on a hillside
just south of Dale Hollow Tn. We found Spikes, Blacks , Yellows and
Grays. This is Kendall my 2 year old with a sampling of what we found...Craig
South Dakota:
From: Mike Jr. Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 13:41:49 -0500. Sioux City
Ia. Actualy it was up the Mightyt Mo. @ Jefferson SD. 3 of us went
up by river found 5 1/2 lbs.They were on the dunes were there was little
shade. Also there was this neat little find the arrows are pointing @ some
tiny shrooms.about 3 to 10mm.
From: Tony B. Date: Thu, 05 Jun 2003 21:14:14 -0600. Subject:
Black morels. Surprise, found 4 morels amongst some ash trees in western
South Dakota June 4th. Average size 4". It has rained during the
evening the last two days. The ground was wet. They were on an eastern
slope. I was there two days before than and there were none. I am a
newbie at mushroom hunting and this was my second time looking. This was
the first time in fact I eat one. Now I am hooked. June 5th, found a Platterfull
today so maybe it is over....
Tennessee:
what time of year do you start looking. Tuesday, March 11, 2003 5:33
AM. I live in south-east tn. what time of the year should i start
looking and where. I know that they usally grow around hardwood forest.
will any grow around pine thickets that have been thined out?
Date: Sun, 16 Mar 2003 19:44:34 EST. Subject: morels in tennessee. Sunday
March 16, 2003 - Myself, my significant other and a friend of hers found
four small to medium size blacks in Southern Middle Tennessee near the
Alabama line today. It has started, and we will be looking again soon.
Richard from Tennessee
Date: Thu, 20 Mar 2003 17:42:47 -0500. Subject: sighting. Found 6 fresh
blacks today in Hancock County (northeast), TN. Rick P.
Date: Sat, 22 Mar 2003 19:49:54 EST. Subject: More morels
in Tennessee. Found 14 blacks today in Southern Middle Tennessee near
the Alabama line. I thought it would be better this week than this.
All were found around one elm tree along the root lines from the tree
that were exposed above the ground on a south facing slope. We have
found blacks in other places on this property in prior years but not this
year. Oh well, the yellows will be here real soon, as the weather has been
very good for morels to grow. Richard in Tennessee.
Date: Sat, 22 Mar 2003 21:36:11 EST. Subject: morles are up in Tennessee.
Just wanted to let you know that I went shrooming on 3/19 and found 8 morels....looked
again today 3/22 in the same location and found 20+ and they were much bigger
than the previous ones...the humidity is finally getting right. Next week
should be great hunting. I'm located north of Knoxville, TN. Sincerely,
Red
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2003 13:31:34 -0500. Subject: 1st ones. The
first morels for the year were found on March 3, near Norris Dam.
Four small blacks were found by a colleague. I found 71 on March 20 and
21 on March 21. Happy Hunting! Chris in Kodak.
Date: Fri, 28 Mar 2003 22:45:51 EST. Subject: morels in Tennessee. Just
wanted to let you know that I went shrooming again on 3/26 and found 50
tans! The weather here is supposed to drop to freezing this weekend...so,
it will set the shrooms back. I'll keep you posted on my finds. :) Sincerely,
Red
From: Larissa G. Date: Fri, 28 Mar 2003 18:16:52 -0600.
Subject: First morel sightings in northern tn. Found 7 blacks,
all were around an inch tall. (March 28, 2003) We thought we would be finding
grays and whites by now, is the season behind?
From: DVT. Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 17:20:49 -0600. Subject:
TN black morel spotting. 4:30 PM Mar 29, Spotted my first black morels
this season on Sunday, Mar 22 and harvested about 40 nice specimens today.
All were in the 2" to 4" size. We're located in southern Wayne
County Tennessee just off the Natchez Trace Parkway. Looks like it could
be a banner year if the cold snap doesn't hurt us.
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 20:38:20 EST. Subject: Morels in
Tennessee. Hello fellow morel hunters... My wife and I went out hunting
morels yesterday, March 28, 2003 in middle Tennessee. We found 14 nice black
morels along an old unused logging road. There were lots of mayapple,
trillium and poplar trees in the area also, so it appeared to be a good
spot to hunt morels. We shall return in the coming days to hunt more. I
know that 14 black morels are not enough to brag about, but we were elated
to have discovered them. I think this coming week will be a prime time.
Again, we certainly plan to go looking for them again in the next few days.
We made a nice cream of morel mushroom soup for dinner tonight. Yum. Good
luck hunting morels! Fred, Murfreesboro, TN
From: Watfin. Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 20:48:16 EST. Subject:
more morels in tennessee. I could not get my significant other or our
friend to go today, so I went by myself. We are suppose to get a frost either
tonight or tommorrow or both, so I guessed I'd better get them before they
got bit. Today, Saturday, March 29 . I found 149 total, including 9 half
frees, 3 yellows and the rest blacks, some about 4" tall. The three
yellows were just starting and very small, so they should be very good in
a couple of weeks. They were found in mixed hardwoods, primarily cherry,
poplar and oak with some elm and other varieties mixed in. The location
was southern middle Tennessee near the Alabama line.
From: Rick S. Date: Sun, 30 Mar 2003 05:55:32 -0600. Subject:
blacks. Pikeville tn. 2 trips out and 29 found 1st trip 21 2nd trip,
may apple up about a foot trillium in bloom, and dogwood leaves the size
of a mouses ear. these are all the signs I look for when looking for blacks.
We are getting a cold spell here this weekend, could slow down some, but
season just comming in.
Date: Wed, 2 Apr 2003 11:41:00 -0600. Subject: half free morel in Tn.
Hi. Found 2 really small half-free morels in Macon county Tn. Near the
KY. Border on 4/1/03. Last year this "patch" was up on the
7th of april. The rain coming this friday should be a boost to all the varieties.
I have not found any blacks in this area but this is my second year of hunting.
I am an ex Ohioan new to these hills. Henry
Date: Sat, 5 Apr 2003 19:50:45 EST. Subject: Morels, morels and more
morels. Saturday April 5, 2003 - Today we found 267, 35 yellows, 44 half
frees and 188 blacks in Southern Middle Tennessee near the Alabama line.
A lot of the blacks and half frees we found were beginning to dry up, some
so bad we did not pick them nor include them in the count. Two of the yellows
were the big variety, one about 5" to 6" tall. It seems early
for those in this area, but we will take them when we find them. Most of
the yellows were small, and they should be very good the next couple of
weeks. One yellow (smaller than a thimble) we left to grow and check the
progression for the next couple of weeks. I hunted with my significant other
and a friend of ours on a private farm. Richard in Tennessee
Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 11:48:05 EDT. Subject: Motherload in TN. Well it
happened, Friday March 4th 2003. Hello fellow mushroom hunters, I wanted
to tell you all about the motherload me and my brother found Friday the
4th. I arrived at the area at 12:00 noon and found 200 blacks in 2 hours.
My brother got off work at 2:00 pm and came to where I was after I called
him on the cell phone and told him of the magnificent find. He got there
around 3:30 pm. In 2 hours his bag was heavy and he counted 120 when he
got home. Needless to say we planned an all dayer the next day (5th) and
had 5 others meet us there. When we walked out of the woods we had another
800 between us. In a total of 10 hours for two days we found well over 1,000
mushrooms. They were mostly blacks anywhere from 4"-8". We also
found a few whites that were only 2" inches high. We found a few yellows
about 2"-3" high. In the next few days the whites and yellows
should soar to 4"-8" high. The conditions in the area are perfect,
lots of hardwood, soft moist ground and plenty of leaf clutter. That's
the whole key to finding mushrooms, you can feel the ground beneath your
feet moving as you look for mushrooms. GOOD LUCK ALL!!!! GSS
Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 17:36:30 EDT. Subject: morel finds. Hi Tom, just
got back from Knoxville, TN. We found 342 mainly Black Morels. Some
still very fresh. A great season so far! -Chris M.
From: missy. Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: help. we are looking
for mushroom in tenneesssee we live in ashland city can you
tell us what tree to look under thank you.
Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2003 20:18:49 -0500. Subject: Nashville, TN
Report. We found our first Morels this year on 29 March 2003. Still
found some today 14 April 2003. Morels were smaller this year than
in previous years, but we found more of them. Jeff L. Nashville, TN
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 14:52:41 -0400. Subject: Northeast TN.
April 13, 2003 - found 40+ ranging from 2 to 3" down to very small
- best time around here is to watch for the dogwoods to bloom. Thank
you, Toy S.
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003 22:25:01 -0400. Subject: mushroom siting. Mushroom
hunters!! Found yellow morels on Easter, April 20, 2003, East Tenn. Cosby,
TN. found only 2, but they were 6 Inches. Rain every few days lately.
Hope we can find more. Sheryl
Texas:
texas. 03/10/2003 I have been looking around the dallas area for
the last few days, but havent found any morels. I was wondering if any have
been found in texas. I noticed the last update for the web site was in febuary.
I am from Iowa and have been shrooming for about 25 years. I have no problem
finding them in Iowa, I usually get about 20 to 30 pounds a year, and I
do share the wealth. Texas is a different story. I moved here one and a
half years ago. I looked last year but no luck. Where the hell are they?
I have found many elms and trees that are said to produce here in Texas
but no luck. It might be early here in Texas this year. James M.
Forwarded by Chris Matherly http://www.morelmushroomhunting.com/
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2003. Time: 11:48 AM EST. Reporting Mushroom
Finds. From: Ray C. Kind?: morel. How many?: only a few. I found
them om my property. I live in Kendall County and Boerne, Tx is the
county seat. I found them this morning. Two years ago I had hundreds and
I did not know what to do with them. I did take some photoes. My back property
is sloped and it was solid with cedar. The morels happened, I feel is cause
I cleared alot of cedar off this slope and left what few oaks I have back
there. Ray
From: "Wayne W. Date: Sat, 22 Mar 2003 14:43:44 -0600. Subject:
Texas sightings. On March 17th, we found our first morel mushrooms ever
in Texas. I didn't even know they grew here until a restaurant in San Antonio
had them on their menu last year. I was raised in the upper Midwest and
have searched for them when we lived in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
We found 7 yellow morels along a stream bed filled with cypress (cedar)
trees. It was about 40 miles west of Austin, TX in the Hill Country.
We were staying in the Austin Omni Hotel that night and the chef fried them
for us. Yummm!!!
From: David W. Date: Sun, 23 Mar 2003 22:17:01 -0600. Subject:
Chef Dave and Ms. M. We found our first of the season at our usual place
near Lake Whitney, Texas. We usually find plenty here - we collected
about a pound this outing, Chef Dave, Ms. M, and Lee. We believe they are
just coming in, late because of some colder than normal weather. We expect
a whole lot more over the next three weeks. Note to James M. -- In
Texas, morels grow mostly in the Hill Country -- they love the limestone,
cedar (actually juniper, but folks here call it cedar) and spanish
oaks. Note to Wayne W. -- congratulations on finding the morels
near Austin. That's prime Hill Country area. But Cypress and Cedar
(actually juniper) are two trees with absolutely nothing in common. You'll
find cypress in the swamps near Louisiana, but not in the Hill Country.
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 17:49:48 -0600. Subject: Texas Hill
Country Morels. I'm Allen in Kerrville, Texas...have been
watching a patch of Yellow Morels for about a week now in my yard under
the Juniper trees and rotting leaves. The biggest bunch are in a mostly
shaded area between my greenhouse and storage barn. Will harvest tomorrow
morning...exciting since this is my first time and my friends from Missouri
will be with me.
From: J. G. Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2003 13:04:22 -0600. Subject: Morel
Sightings... 23-March, 2003 found about 2 lbs of morels on my property in
central Texas. Location is the Leander area, northwest of Austin.
Found in areas of filtered light underneath juniper trees and oak trees.
Anywhere where a small amount of soil exists amidst the rocks seems
to be a likely location.
From: Eric L. Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 16:16:03 -0600. Subject:
Texas Yellow Morels. Tom: Hello from Austin.... Nice crop from along
Barton Creek.... From a 20' area, located along a shaded overhang (most
growing from the bottom face of the 5' high overhang), mostly cedars with
some oak composting. Damp & shaded, next to running water. 3rd year
from the same patch. Peak was Monday-Tuesday, waited until today to harvest.
Date: Sat, 5 Apr 2003 18:45:23 -0800 (PST). Subject: morel sightings
in TX. We found 15 morels today in Northeast TX. It is still a little
dry but fortunately there was enough moisture to pop some morels up. If
it rains tonight we should find some more. To James---All I can say is in
this area of TX morels must not grow very abundantly for some reason. The
most we find a year(covering about 20 acres) is anywhere from 1 to 30, and
that's individual morels, not pounds! From my experience, the best time
to look for morels in the Dallas area is last week in March, first
week or two in April. Almost all of them we find along or very near to
a creek and most are around Ash & Elm trees as well as hedge apple trees.-------
Tara N.
From: Bryan B. Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 12:45:25 -0500. Subject:
sighting. Date: Mon, 07, April 2003 . Subject: BB-Texas Hill Country
Morels. This is the first year in Central TX I found morels because
I did not know they grew here. I found them the second and third week of
March north and west of Austin the Lake Travis area on both private and
public land. Having been an avid hunter in the KCMO area what I found
is you just have to walk the woods, but every place I tried I found at least
a few. You can bet I will be looking for more place to go before next year.
Turkey:
Wild Mushroom Market Report (17/03/2003) ***AVAILABLE NOW FROM TURKEY***
MORELS, MORILLES; MORCHELN, MORCHELA, COLMENILLA. The weather conditions
are rainy.The Northeast winds stopped growing of morels in these days. In
4 or 5 days later, the Morel mushroom business will go faster. Last year,
18th of March,we started to export fresh morels.Our first shipment was 26,50
USD to NY and 22,00 Euro to Paris. Our capacity of Morel mushroom is 10.000
kgs/a month. We are looking for collaborating with reliable buyers. Last
year, Turkey's totally export income was 1,815,000 USD in Morel Business.
Last year Sale Price Range for fresh morels was between CIF 15,00 - 21,00
Euro for Europe ports between CIF 18,00 - 24,00 USD for NY port. The price
changings depends on availability of morels and world markets. Importers
can supply Morel mushroom only from Turkey until 10th of April because of
climate. Ortac G.
Utah:
From: Scott D. Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 09:27:34 -0700. Subject:
Sightings in Utah. A few black morels were found at about 6,000
feet on a South West facing slope outside Salt Lake City. Not a huge
find (one small patch of about a dozen), but some are better than none.
Vermont:
On May 3 near Rutland in a sunny grassy area near a large black willow.
Found two only, it is a bit early here yet. T and G
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003. Subject: Vermont Sighting. On May 3 near Rutland
in a sunny grassy area near a large black willow. Found two only, it is
a bit early here yet. T and G
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003, Subject: morel sighting...and picking! Just found
my first two blacks of the season....looks like it'll be a busier weekend
than I had thought! Kathy in Williston, Vermont :)
Virginia
From: curtis and brenda. Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 11:30:41
-0500. Subject: morels found in the hills of va. Found about 15 morels
in the little north mountain area wich is west of the blue ridge
in virginia on 3/23/03 about 3/4 to 1inch tall . They are just starting
in this area .
From: "curtis and brenda". Date: Wed,
26 Mar 2003 22:07:37 -0500. Subject: more found. Found another 25
to 30 mushrooms about an inch tall today . On the southwest side of the
ridge . In the same area starting to grow better .
Date: Fri, 28 Mar 2003 19:25:28 -0500. Subject: Virginia
Morels. Hi Tom and Vicky, Well it's cost me quite a bit of gas money but
my trek paid off yesterday. Started finding one-sie/two-sies the 20th of
March, but yesterday I found 45 various sized angusticeps. Found them in
my favorite spot here in Newport News VA. Clay.
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 15:06:51 EST. Subject: Virginia
morels. OK, now I'm really upset. I've been looking for morels in the coastal
plain area of Virginia on and off for 10 years since moving here from Indiana.
I'm in Suffolk, VA and none of the locals here have even heard of
a morel. Any advice Jody M. or Clay could give me would be greatly appreciated.
PS I don't want your favorite spot, just a spot "like" your favorite
spot. I'd gladly post my email address if that's acceptable. Moreless
Les in VA
From: jeff f. Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 17:24:25 -0400. Subject: Morels
find in Southwest Va. Found about 2 1/2 pds of blacks most of medium
size 3" to 5" on 4-6-2003 in the hills of Va. near Pennington
Gap Va. After a good rain and 2, 70 degree days. Used to pick as a kid
in N.C. where I live but pickings have been slim in the last 10 yrs so I
moved up to Va. after I heard about a great place. (sorry cant tell where)
ha ha. Happy Hunting to all.
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2003 10:35:37 -0400. Subject: sightings in Western
VA. Hello, I checked out my favorite spot yesterday, 4/14, north
of Harrisonburg, VA. I found 7 very fresh blacks, four were about the
size of my thumb and the other three were about 3". I left all of them
and I plan to go back on Wednesday since we're having a really nice week
of 70's and a previous wet, rainy week. It's about ready to explode here
in the area, time to get out and start looking. The mayapples are up about
3-4" and the dogwoods are starting to bloom west of the Blue Ridge.
The ones I found were growing around my favorite ash trees that produce
year after year, even last year when it was so dry. The conditions are perfect
for this to be a really good year in this area. ...BillH
From: Shelley. Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: Morels in Northern
Virginia. We live within 5 miles of Washington, DC and went hunting
yesterday (Easter Sunday) for morels in a large, wooded neighborhood park.
After an hour of hunting, we were finally successful. The black morels here
are still somewhat small (less than 2 inches with underdeveloped heads),
so we left a few untouched to get bigger before we harvest them. I used
to pick morels by the boxload as a child in Southwestern Ohio, so I knew
what we were looking for. My husband and I were amazed that we were finding
them so close to major metropolitan area in a park used by hundreds of people.
Obviously, we are not telling our neighbors what we've found, or we would
have to share!
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 2003. Subject: morel finds. I went to my favorite spot
east of the Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia. 4-20-03 - After
five hours of traipsing I was able to collect 19 morels (15 black and 4
yellow). Sizes ranged from 1inch to 7 inches. My first find of the year
and truly exciting. Even more exciting to eat! Will
From: Jay/Dede. Date: Thu, 24 Apr 2003. Subject: Morel sighting.
Yesterday afternoon while doing yard work at my suburban home I discovered
a small group (8 - 10) of Morel's in a corner of my property under some
large pine trees. Checked your website to insure the identification. Believe
them to be "yellow" variety with caps in 3 to 5 inch size. Wondering
if I should leave them awhile to see if they get larger or go ahead and
harvest them. Location is Waynesboro, Va in the Shenandoah Valley.
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 23:32:43 -0400. Subject: Posting for you from
va. Tom, I hope this is useful. VA. April 25. The last few days have been
pretty good and today's rain will bring out more. My hunting partner and
I usually hunt in the counties of Culpeper, Fauquier and Madison.
The best hunting for us is above 500 feet. Today, for example, we
found yellows, blacks and a few half frees at altitudes as high as about
1500 feet. Almost all were among mature poplars and we found them
on north, south, east and west slopes as well as dead flat areas. I
notice some postings as to the soil type: I don't pay much attention to
that and concentrate more on the plants that are growing in the area and
the moisture level of the soil. For example, I have never found morels among
stands of mountain laurel or rhododendron and hardly ever find them among
yellow pine. But I have found bucket loads under poplars. It is interesting
to compare last year's records with this year: we are finding more half
frees than last year, when we found very few. We started finding blacks
about a week and a half after we found the first ones last year. We often
look for blacks and half frees in the company of spice bushes and
these too are leafing later than last year. Perhaps the cooler spring delayed
the fruiting. We probably collected a hundred or so blacks and yellows in
the last two days plus 20 or 30 half frees. I rinse off any leaf mold, evict
the larger insects, saute them in a little butter and sometimes add some
stock or glace de veau. I finish them with some heavy cream and pile them
on pasta, devour them and collapse in an exhausted but extremely contented
heap. Joe P
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003. Subject: Reed's Gap 4/26. I didn't see
a lot here from Virginia so thought I'd chip in on what seems to be a late
season. I found a nice stand under mostly elm trees near Reed's gap. This
is where the Appalaichan trail meets the Blue Ridge Parkway notheast
of Lexington, VA. Most of them were small 3-5cm blacks, with a few drier
mature specimens reaching 3in. I think there might still be more to come
for this region. Kind Regards, David K
From: graceandhavoc. Date: Sat, 3 May 2003 14:28:14 -0400. Subject:
Morels in Charlottesville, VA. April 19 & 27, 2003 - Found a
really nice patch of yellow morels on the sandy banks of the Rivanna
River at a public park here in Charlottesville. Harvested close to 30
yummy ones. They were under dying elm trees.
Washington:
From: Jeremy F. Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2003 02:30:52 -0700. Subject: morels
in washington. great day today in washington. way too early for the true
push on the east side of the mountains, but found a nice patch in
some mulch beds. 12 and a half pounds blacks, greys, and blondes all
along a mile long stretch of road. found most in the median in between
two lanes of traffic. with some more rain should get another batch next
week.
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 20:12:45 -0700. Subject: Spring is here in the
Olympia, WA area because yellow morels have been found. Picked about
7 lbs today. Some were quite large and old, and out in plain view near
a main street - from the right angle.... Seems like an early season,
despite the cold weather we had about a week ago. Can't wait to get out
and check my other planned spots. Tonight's menu is fresh pasta, with morels
in a sauce of fresh rosemary, arugula, goat cheese, tomatoes and red wine.
Yum. David and Susanne A.
From: Art. Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003. Subject: Just a note... Was
in Seattle, Washington 3 weeks ago, had the privilege of going to
the Pike's fish market there. They were selling morels at $20 per pound
hydrated. They were all yellow, about 5 inches in length, sure looked good!
Folks around here are just now finding a few by chance mainly while walking
a river bank fishing. We've had quite a bit of rain over the past two days,
so hopefully this will help. I'm originally from SW Iowa and hunted morels
with my Dad many years ago. Think the boys and myself will partake in the
pleasure again soon...
Date: Sun, 4 May 2003 19:53:31 -0700. East side of the Cascades (Washington)
are starting to produce under the cottonwood trees. Found about 200
this past weekend. Still to early for the big push about 2500 feet.
Maybe another two weeks. Tom G.
West Virginia:
Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 16:21:34 -0400. Subject: Morels in WV. Finally
got out today for the first time. Haven't counted all of them yet but I'd
say we found around 70 morels. The weather hasn't been very co-operative
this spring. Plan to be back in the woods next weekend. Keep on shrooming
CURT & DEB in southern West Virginia
From: anita. Date: Tue, 8 Apr 2003. Subject: mollymoochers. Hi
Anita here from Southern WV (Boone Co.) went out a few days ago and
only found 3 hope to go out today 4-8-03 went this time last year and found
30. Other people around here have been finding a pretty good bunch at a
time but not me as of yet, but hopefully soon, oh should I mention that
the loggers have ripped up some of our honey holes as we call them, it makes
my stomach turn when you can just walk along in a place and pick them up
left and right now its gone do to logging boo hoo!!!!
Wed, 9 Apr 2003 23:38:41 -0400. Subject: morel sightings. Nancy from
Charleston. Been going out every few days for the last week or so. Found
about 80 total. The weather has turned very cold so we think it is slowing
things down. I have heard of some people finding large quantities but I'm
still searching for my motherlode. All blacks so far. I'm from W.V.
Date: Sat, 12 Apr 2003 06:50:49 -0400. Subject: Sightings in Mineral
County WV. Last Saturday, April 5, my family found a total of 72 small
morels, none more than 2" tall. It's been a cold, wet week here, so
we're not sure what to expect this weekend. Last year we found hundreds
each day we went. Sandy (Burlington, WV)
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: GOOD FRIDAY EXPERIENCE. I live in Cleveland,
Ohio. I'm originally from Southeastern WV. I had an opportunity to go hunting
in Lincoln County, WV. on Good Friday. We basically found black morels
and not a lot of them. Some were already dried up. We went again on Saturday
morning and found some white ones. Our friend was more successful on Friday.
He found at least 200 nice size white ones. He gave them to us to bring
home and enjoy much to our appreciation. It's time to start avidly hunting
in the northern part of Ohio. Happy hunting from Dale in Cleveland.
It was much better than hunting Easter eggs!
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 2003 07:54:12 -0500. Subject: Tyler Co WV- our
first morel hunt report. Howdy from Tyler Co in West Virginia, We just got
back from vacationing in Ireland (they hunt shrooms in Aug. there
) and even though we had jetlag we went out and found 17 lovely tan morels
on thursday, April 24th! They are 1 1/2- 2" range. We can't wait for
rain tonight so we can hunt enough to stuff a nice batch for the weekend.
Love the morel mania site and we wish everyone the best hunting ever this
spring. Pam and buddy M. PS We were at the blarney castle and all
over the grounds were ramps ( we sniffed them out) growing!
From: Kay P. Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 19:37:36 -0400. Subject: Saturday
26, 2003. Gilmer County WV - What fun hunting morels with family
in the country and so yummy.
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2003 19:02:15 -0700 (PDT). Subject: Lincoln County.
"The Motherload". Hi we went out "moochie" hunting April
20 2003, at our honey hole and to our suprise we found the biggest
white moochies that my husband and I have ever seen (he's been hunting for
20 years or so). Total we found 70 white ones and most were the size of
soda cans. This was a first for me and I am a die hard. I even had my first
"moochie" mounted (like you would mount a deer) ha!ha! -- This
is GREAT! Lincoln Counties Finest, Sam & Debra H. -- HAPPY HUNTING!!!!!
ps..... i will try to send some pictures!!!!!!!!!
From: Phunkygrl. Date: Fri, 9 May 2003 00:04:30 EDT. Subject:
Northern WV. In Brooke County WV , found about 30 , really
big ones... This was our first time and we had been looking since April
based on what others said , well we almost gave up and then with the continual
rain and hot muggy nights we went today, (5/08/03) and we were so happy!!!!
Good luck to all!
Wisconsin:
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003. Subject: 1st morel. I found about a dozen just
up only one-half inch tall on a south facing ridge in Rock County Wisconsin
on April 20, 2003. Good Hunting. Tim
Sent: Tuesday, April 22, 2003 9:58 PM. Subject: Sightings. Morels are
just sprouting here in sw Wisconsin. This little guy was hiding
under some leaves. Today (April 22) I did find 6 grays which were around
an 1 1/2 tall which means one will be able to start picking on south hillsides
in about 7 days. Picking will get good around the 7th of May and the season
will peak around the 12th of May unless we get an unusual weather pattern.
There is a sufficient amount of moisture in the woods right now which is
good. Everyone pray for rain the next 3 weeks and good luck hunting from
Morelmasters www.morelmasters.com
Date: Wed, 7 May 2003 22:37:15 -0500. Subject: SW WI. I FINALLY
started picking morels today on South slopes and open areas. There
are still some I am leaving to grow. This is turning into a real late season.
Things look real good out there. Plenty of moisutre along with decent numbers
under the elms. Found 5 pounds today. We had our 3rd. child right on your
festival day! Another boy. Yes Tom he's only 4 days old but I had to take
him morel hunting! See Attachment. We'll stay in touch..... Master J
From: danlisa. Date: Sun, 4 May 2003 13:22:45 -0500. Subject:
first sightings for us!!! Hey out there!! Yes! Finally found a bunch of
little greys and a few yellows in SW WI.......Many, Many more to
come I hope!!!!
Date: Fri, 16 May 2003. Subject: Wisconsin report. Tuesday May 13 2003,
went out to an early spot here in Trempealeau county Wisconsin. Found
86 greys, that averaged about 2 inches, I'll be picking them in the morning!
Things are just starting up around here. Good luck everyone!! Al T.
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 17:56:47 -0500. Subject: SW wisconsin.
We stumbled on 2 pounds of Morels in our yard in SW wisconsin in Waukesha
county, a southern slope under a dying elm tree in a mossy open area
along a trail we cut. Our son discovered them and loves them. Dan W.
Date: Sun, 18 May 2003 20:19:47 -0500. Subject: found morels in Milwaukee
County park. May 18, 2003. Found 3 lbs of yellows and greys, some 6
inches in Milwaukee County Park. I'm excited. Hope more come with rain on
its way. MJ
Date: Tue, 27 May 2003 17:01:08 -0500. Subject: Morels in La Crosse
County, WI. Greetings all. On Saturday, May 24th me, my wife, my brother,
and his fiancé hunted up about 60 morels (mostly yellows) in southern
La Crosse County north of Coon Valley. Most were on south and west
facing slopes about 1/4 of the way down the ridge & nearly all were
in clusters of 5 to 8'shrooms in close proximity to dead elms. However,
the nice big one I found in the attached picture was all by his lonesome
right next to the logging road under a big live elm. We chowed our
find that night with cheeseburgers and homebrewed beer. Needless to say
we were living large that night. Gotta love 'shroom season! Happy hunting!
Regards, John V. Wrightstown, WI
Wyoming:
From: Meredith. Date: Sun, 2 Mar 2003 06:11:56 -0700. found 25+lbs
in wyoming in may 2002 in last years fire in teton co
No State/Province/Country
Mentioned:
From: Mark and Amanda. Date: Fri, 18 Apr 2003. Subject: little
blacks. I went out 4/18 and found 3 about 2 inches tall. we need rain really
bad. Found in wayne county
From: Rhonda. Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. I was just browsing your sight
and I found it quite interesting. We have been molly mooching 4 times already
and we have found about 150 moochers. We live in Raleigh County and
You can usually find alot of moochers on Kayford Mountain during
the first 2 weeks of April
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Subject: Tuesday. Hi, Tom. We were really sad
to find out about Larry. I know he was a good friend of yours. We were wondering
if we could sit down with you for a few minutes before or after the meeting
on Tuesday to talk a little about Larry. Before the meeting would be a little
better for us, but we can do either. On a much, much lighter note...I found
my first morels today. About fifteen on a southwestern facing slope west
of Lafayette. Cars were dotting the road all through the country...I
knew the season must have started. In the interest of full disclosure, I
did have help from another hunter that I saw out there. I was pretty excited
nonetheless. Again, we're really sorry about Larry. Dave
From: Norma. Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003. Josh and Matt found 186 mushrooms
on Wednesday, April 16, 2003.
From: greg. Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2003. moultrie county, near bethany
i found 40 small grey morels.1 to 2 inches tall. my friend did not do so
good. he only found 6 morels.it is still early
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003 Went out on Easter April 20 near Fall River
and found about 50 nice yellow morels. Some were dried up but got a couple
of five inches! Hope the weather stays cool. Keith
From: Bruce. Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003. Subject: morels the only mushroom.
they are late this year but yesterday April21st we found 103 blacks in Huntingdon
county.yyyyeeeaaaahaaaaaaa!!!!!
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: Found 557 so far... Greetings to all
from Richland County. Since my last post on April 16, my 10 year
old daughter and I have found 557 mushrooms and helped friends find around
100. Most have been the black morels. And we're still going strong! The
picture shows the first 155 that we found on April 17th. K.L.
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003. Subject: Recent rain a big help in Jeff. Co.
We recieved about two and a half inches of rain over the weekend and it
made for good hunting on Easter sunday. We found about 105 yellow and grey
morels, as well as some good sized false morels up in the hills sunday afternoon.
We returned to the same spot tuesday and found another 92 yellows and greys.
Thus far the season is looking up, but warmer nights would not hurt. ~Matt
From: jccook.Subject: found lots of `shrooms. found 209 peckerheads
and 5 yellow morels in randolph co. in the last 3 days. some peckerheads
5-7" tall.yellow morels 3-4" tall! indiana is kicking this year-my
woods, anyways! good luck to all
From: George & Janice. Date: Thu, 1 May 2003 07:06:45 -0400.
Hi, Just discovered your site. We're in Harrison County. We've been
hunting since April 16th when we found the first 63 small whites. We've
been hunting about every other day since. Found the first big morels on
the 21st. and now have a total all types of 495 for the year. Didn't find
any blacks this year or last. My husband's family went out on the 26 and
found a bunch but we only counted our own not theirs Our daughter's family
has over 200 in just a couple hunts with the 8 year old grandaughter finding
the first. She's been hunting since about 2.
Date: Thu, 1 May 2003 23:56:31 -0500. Subject: Morels found in Grant
Co. I checked a spot on a south hill every day for the last week
or so and today, May 1st, after all that rain the last 2 days, I found a
half dozen greys about 2" high in a small clearing with sunlight
through the trees in Southern Grant County. The first one I picked made
me think of Larry, even though I never had the pleasure of meeting him but
learned much from him and his website. The next one made me think of my
Mom and Dad. God rest their souls. Morel hunting can be a very spiritual
experience! Fred S.
From: Danny and Teri M. Date: Sat, 03 May 2003 21:47:51 -0400.
Subject: sighting. 5/3/03 Mushroom Spank . I found 2 blacks on the sunny
side on Frederick city watershed. at the base of tulip poplar near stream
bank not much results for 4 hours.
Date: Sun, 4 May 2003 11:56:21 -0500. Subject: morels in Sullivan
Co. I was out on 4/25, hunting by myself in creek bottoms and found
5 gal. and on 4/26 me and my son went out and found 8 gal. This was the
first of a lifetime find for us !!!! Needless to say, I finally saw what
I have been jealous of for MANY YEARS. Unfortunately we left the camera
in the car, this will be just a special memory for the both of us. Bill
Date: Mon, 5 May 2003. Guillaume from Reinbeck found 7 small grey
and 2 small yellow at Otter Creek and Lake area. May 5, 2003.
Date: Mon, 12 May 2003 18:51:55 -0500. Subject: shrooms. found some morels
in washington dakota and goodhue countys about 1 inch tall saturday
should be a great harvest. savey dog
From: CRAIG S. Date: Sat, 17 May 2003. Subject: good find. I was
out May 16 and found 175 Morels. A few of them were 5 inches tall. Found
a whole grove of elm trees. Lots were found there. Also, found many under
a large grove of Aspen trees. Had to hike 2 miles in off road, but very
well worth it. Should also be a good spot for deer this fall.
From: Udruzenje M. Date: Wed, 28 May 2003 01:00:23 +0200. Subject:
conica. Veliki pozdrav iz Bosne i Hercegovine
From: Elizabeth L. Date: Sat, 31 May 2003 18:28:21 -0700. found
black morels near Wandering river May28/03.
2003
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