Introduction to Truffle Foraging

Not just a culinary delight, truffles are also an integral part of our regional forest ecosystems. The Pacific Northwest is home to hundreds of species of truffles, and one of the few bioregions in the world where edible truffles grow. Like most mushrooms, truffles are the fruiting bodies of complex mycelial networks, but unlike most mushrooms, they fruit underground. This makes these sought-after mushrooms difficult to find without the help of dogs, trained to seek out the compelling truffle scent.

In this workshop biologist and wild foods enthusiast, Vinh Pham will provide an in-depth introduction to the basic ecology and biology of native Oregon black truffles. Employing sustainable modern practices to ensure that truffle foraging can be enjoyed for generations to come, Vinh and his trained truffle hunting dogs, Wilma & Wynonna, will guide students in the nuances of finding and harvesting Oregon black truffles. While we can't guarantee everyone will go home with truffles, we can guarantee you will leave the workshop with a new appreciation for wild foraged foods!

This course will require working with trained dogs while hiking over low elevation mountain slopes covered in coniferous forests. This workshop will meet near the town of Olney, Oregon. The exact meeting location will not be determined until 5 days prior to your forage. Students will be notified of the meeting location by the Monday prior to the workshop date.