SVIMS Foray Government House Fall 2023

SVIMS members returned on November 8, 2023 to the grounds of Government House. The 18 hectares of the provincial property include extensive natural woodlands (mossy balds, Garry oak meadows) on the south side. 

The foray personnel were composed of both Government House volunteers and SVIMS members. At the end of the foray, participants were welcomed at the Government House cottage for refreshments and sharing of finds.

The 20 or so SVIMS people in attendance divided into four groups. Each group had one recorder (Elora Adamson, Ann McCall, Richard Winder, and Kem Luther played these roles.)

Abundant rains over the last month helped bring out a large number of mushrooms, both mycorrhizals and decomposers. The fungal species from the day can be viewed on iNaturalist. In all, forayers found about 40 different species (as always, the iNaturalist count may change as other people weigh in on the observations). 

Photos courtesy of Steven Strybosch. Click on pics to enlarge.

Bolbitus titubans, the fried egg mushroom, was found throughout the grasslands.
Sarah demonstrates the proper mushroom hunting posture. Eyes on the ground!
Ann records some tree rotting mushrooms.
The group laid out the mushrooms on a table at the cottage and debated IDs.
A jelly fungus, Naematelia aurantia, chows down on some yummy Stereum.

Annual SVIMS Raffle 2023

The Annual SVIMS Raffle is underway! Tickets will be available to purchase at the next meetings until the draw on December 5th! 

Tickets are 2$ each or 3$ for 5

Prizes include…

First Place: Basket valued at over 200$ 
Second Place: One of a kind local art print 
Third Place: Signed Mushrooms of BC book
And many more smaller prizes…. 

Donations from places like Luna Collective, Sea Cider, Foragers Galley and more! 

Please contact svims.mal10@gmail.com for any questions or concerns. 

Happy Foraging! 

2024 SVIMS Calendar

The beautiful 2024 SVIMS Calendar is now available (see front cover below). SVIMS members have contributed their photographs and graphic art for each month. The calendars can be purchased by either members or non-members.

The calendars are $20 each.  They make a great gift to family and friends.

 If you require shipping, please add $5 per calendar for shipping and handling.

See Payment Options on Merch menu.

If you would like to contribute to the 2025 calendar, see the lower part of Merch menu.

Calendar image