π Annual NEMF Samuel Ristich Foray 2025
Your Complete Guide to the Northeast's Premier Mycological Event
π Camp Comstock | π September 18-21, 2025
π Welcome from Zombie Mushrooms!
We're thrilled to present this comprehensive guide to one of the most prestigious mycological gatherings in North America! Whether you're a seasoned forager or just starting your fungal journey with our grow kits, this foray offers incredible learning opportunities. Let's dive into what makes this event so special! π¬β¨
π Event Location
Camp Comstock
A premier outdoor education facility perfect for mycological exploration
Detailed address and directions will be provided to registered participants
π Key Dates
September 18-21, 2025
Starting at 12:00 PM on Thursday
Four full days of mycological immersion
π― Event Overview
The Annual NEMF Samuel Ristich Foray stands as the crown jewel of mycological education in the Northeast United States. Named in honor of Sam Ristich since 1995, this prestigious gathering celebrates a remarkable scientist who held a Ph.D. in economic entomology but possessed extensive training in botany, ecology, mycology, and ornithology, with deep expertise in how natural systems function within the deciduous and coniferous forests of northeastern North America.
This year's gathering promises to be particularly special, bringing together passionate mushroom enthusiasts, professional mycologists, and curious beginners for an intensive four-day exploration of fungal diversity. The foray features comprehensive fungus collection and identification sessions, engaging lectures, and hands-on workshops covering topics such as fungus identification, culinary applications, medicinal uses, textile dyeing, papermaking, and photography.
π What Makes This Foray Special?
- Legacy of Excellence: Nearly three decades of mycological education
- Expert Faculty: Leading mycologists from across North America
- Hands-On Learning: Field collection and laboratory identification
- Networking Hub: Connect with over 10,000 mycophiles from the federation
- All Skill Levels: From absolute beginners to professional researchers
ποΈ Host Organizations
This year's foray is proudly hosted by a coalition of distinguished mycological societies from across New York State, each bringing their unique expertise and passion for fungi:
Rochester Area Mycological Association
A vibrant community of mushroom enthusiasts serving the greater Rochester region with regular forays and educational programs.
Susquehanna Valley Mycological Society
Dedicated to promoting mycological knowledge throughout the Susquehanna Valley with expert-led identification sessions.
Greater Utica Mycological Society
Fostering mycological education and appreciation in the greater Utica area through hands-on learning experiences.
Central New York Mycological Society
Bringing together mushroom enthusiasts from central New York for educational forays and species documentation.
Western New York Mycology Club
Promoting mycological literacy and conservation awareness throughout western New York State.
π€ Featured Faculty & Speakers
π’ Faculty Announcement: While the complete speaker lineup is still being finalized, we can confirm that this year's foray will feature some of the most respected names in North American mycology. Faculty profiles include distinguished researchers, field experts, and educators from leading institutions.
Based on the faculty preview images, we can expect presentations from several key figures in the mycological community:
The Bessette Faculty Team
The foray preview indicates presentations from both Arleen Bessette and Alan Bessette, renowned figures in North American mycology. The Bessettes are celebrated authors of numerous field guides and have contributed significantly to mushroom identification literature.
- Co-authors of multiple definitive mushroom field guides
- Decades of field research experience
- Expert identification specialists
Dr. Patrik Kaishian
A distinguished mycologist whose research focuses on fungal ecology and systematics. Dr. Kaishian brings cutting-edge scientific perspectives to the foray experience.
- Research expertise in fungal systematics
- University-level mycological education
- Published researcher in peer-reviewed journals
Michelle Kustra
An accomplished mycologist and educator known for her expertise in field identification and mushroom education programs.
- Field identification specialist
- Educational program development
- Community outreach expertise
Michael Tehan
A respected member of the mycological community with extensive field experience and identification expertise.
- Extensive field collection experience
- Species identification expertise
- Regional fungal knowledge
π What to Expect from Our Faculty
Each faculty member brings unique expertise to create a comprehensive learning experience:
- Field Identification Workshops: Hands-on training with live specimens
- Scientific Presentations: Latest research in mycology and fungal ecology
- Interactive Q&A Sessions: Direct access to expert knowledge
- Specialized Topics: From culinary applications to medicinal properties
π Event Schedule & Activities
β° Schedule Update: The detailed daily agenda for the 2025 foray is currently being finalized by the organizing committee. Check back for complete scheduling information as we approach the event date.
ποΈ Thursday, Sep 18
12:00 PM: Registration Opens
Welcome reception and orientation for first-time attendees
π Friday-Sunday
Full Program Days
Field forays, workshops, lectures, and identification sessions
π― Monday, Sep 21
Closing Activities
Final presentations and farewell
π― Core Activities
π¬ Field Collection
Guided forays to collect diverse fungal specimens from various habitats around Camp Comstock
π§ͺ Identification Labs
Microscopic examination and systematic identification of collected specimens
π Educational Workshops
Specialized sessions on cultivation, photography, culinary applications, and more
π€ Expert Lectures
Presentations on cutting-edge mycological research and field techniques
π About NEMF
The Northeast Mycological Federation represents one of North America's most comprehensive mycological networks, comprising over two dozen mushroom clubs spanning from Quebec to New Jersey and Pennsylvania to Maine, collectively representing more than 10,000 beginners, amateurs, and professional mycophiles.
Member Clubs
From Quebec to New Jersey
Mycophiles
All skill levels represented
Years Legacy
Since naming after Sam Ristich
π― Registration & Participation
π Registration Status
Registration details and pricing information will be announced by the host clubs. Stay connected with the organizing societies for the latest updates on registration opening dates and availability.
ποΈ What's Typically Included
- All educational sessions and workshops
- Field foray participation
- Access to identification labs
- Networking opportunities
- Educational materials
π What to Bring
- Collection baskets and bags
- Field notebooks and writing materials
- Camera for documentation
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Personal identification references
π Connect With Zombie Mushrooms
Planning to attend the NEMF Foray? Get a head start on your mycological journey with our premium grow kits! Perfect for developing identification skills and understanding fungal biology before the event.
Pre-Foray Preparation Tips
β¨ Start growing your own mushrooms to understand fungal development
π¬ Practice observation and documentation techniques
π Review basic mycological terminology
πΏ Study regional field guides for northeastern species
Disclaimer: This directory is compiled for informational purposes. All details subject to change by event organizers. Please verify current information directly with NEMF and the host clubs before making travel arrangements.
Directory created by Zombie Mushrooms - Your Partner in Mycological Discovery π
