SOUTH FORK - Have you ever taken a leisurely stroll down one of the many hiking trails in the South Fork area? If so, then you have no doubt noticed the amazing array of mushrooms and toadstools that abound in every habitat found in the forest.

   Whether they are white, brown, red or yellow, edible or poisonous - the forests are filled with fungus of all varieties. If you are looking for something different to do, then come join in The Mushroom Foray held on August 10 and 11. This is an adventure in the Rio Grande National Forest, where participants will learn how to identify and hunt for mushrooms.

   Whether you plan to pick mushrooms or just want to learn what varieties grow in this area, guide Roger Dawson is sure to have some unique information to share. The same agenda is planned for both days, so adventurers need only to participate in one day or the other. However, if you are a “mushroom nut,” you are more than welcome to participate both days.

   Both days will start at 8:30 AM, with an orientation at the South Fork Visitor Center that will include some quick tips regarding the proper way to identify and collect mushrooms. Anyone who wants to participate in this event will need to do some light walking, so remember to wear proper shoes and clothes. You will also need to bring: pen, paper, knife, mesh, net or paper bags, hat, jacket, water and a sack lunch.

   Once all of the mushrooms have been collected, the participants will go back to the Visitor Center for identification and discussion. The registration fee for this event is $20 per person, per day. Participants will also receive a cloth bag, trowel, waterproof notebook, and pen. We will also have mushroom guides available for purchase.

   Those who are interested in participating in this event, please call or stop at the South Fork Visitors Center at 719-873-5512. Please remember that we are limiting both days to 25 people so sign up early!