08/10/2024
We have an exciting announcement! This year the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival has graciously sponsored a fungal survey of the former Lake Aldwell restoration site along the Elwha River in Olympic National Park. Coordinated by Biodiversity Collective, this project is a collaborative effort involving the support of multiple institutions and organizations, including Oregon State University, the University of Washington’s Burke Herbarium, and the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe's Natural Resources Department. Together, we bring diverse expertise and resources to ensure the success of the research and its impact on conservation efforts.
Lake Aldwell was once a reservoir created by the Elwha Dam, which was built in the early 20th century. In a monumental effort to restore the Elwha River ecosystem, the dam was removed in 2012, allowing the river to flow freely for the first time in over a century. The lake bed has since been undergoing a natural restoration process, with native vegetation gradually returning and wildlife reestablishing their habitats. This area provides a unique opportunity to study ecological recovery and the role of fungi in ecosystem restoration.
Did you know that less than 5% of the world’s fungal species have been documented? Our project seeks to bridge this knowledge gap by thoroughly documenting the fungal biodiversity in this unique and ecologically significant area. By conducting both above-ground and below-ground surveys, we will capture a comprehensive picture of the fungal community. Our above-ground surveys will focus on visible fruiting bodies, while below-ground surveys will examine fungal DNA found in soil.
If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to learn how to help document fungi for research, there are still tickets available to participate! Don’t miss this chance to help contribute to our understanding of these important organisms.
We are so excited to collaborate with the amazing team at the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival. This event is a fantastic opportunity to learn about fungi, from cultivation, medicinal applications, to art, music, food and more! For information and tickets visit their website: https://www.opfungifestival.com.
https://www.biodiversitycollective.org/elwha-river-fungal-survey
This project aims to uncover the hidden world of fungi in the former Lake Aldwell restoration area along the Elwha River. Fungi are an essential yet often overlooked component of our ecosystems, playing vital roles in soil health, plant growth, and nutrient cycling. Despite their importance, less th...
