Galbreath Mushroom Blitz 2026

Galbreath Wildlands Preserve
Sun, Dec 6, 10:00 am – 2:30 pm

Admission Fees: none
 
Register Here 

Wild mushrooms are indicators of soil and air quality, and support plant growth and communication. For the 8th consecutive year, students and the community will comb the hills of the Galbreath Preserve to collect as many fungal species as possible. Join us and build identification and sustainable harvesting skills while adding to our research database. A sister event takes place at Osborn Preserve December 12th. 

Leaders

Dr. Melina Kozanitas is a forest health specialist, consulting with UC Berkeley and Pepperwood Preserve. She is a former biology/mycology lecturer at SSU. She will be joined by Lisa Bauer, a Yorkville community leader and mushroom guru.

Logistics

• We will meet at the entrance to the Galbreath Preserve at 30720 Elkhorn Rd. in Yorkville, southern Mendocino County, off Highway 128. There we will form carpools to drive on the preserve. The preserve is a 90-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus. Driving directions are provided here 
• Parking is limited so please consider carpooling. 
• It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early. 
• All vehicles that enter the Preserve must be AWD or 4-wheel drive vehicle. 
• You will receive more detailed information via email just before the event. 
• Participants must sign a waiver upon arrival. 
• This event is appropriate for minors 12 years and older. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian for the entire event, and all minors must be registered individually for the event (the parent’s/guardian’s email can be used for their registration) 
• There is a restroom (porta-potty) available a few miles from the entrance to the preserve. 
• There is no potable water available on the Galbreath Preserve. 
• Pets and smoking are not permitted. 
• Due to rocky, unpaved roads, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted. 
• No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate. 
• This is a rain or shine event, but if the weather forecast is concerning, we will notify you via email of cancellation.

What to Bring

Please bring a backpack, sun and insect protection, rain gear, a water bottle, a bag lunch, and sturdy shoes to hike in. Layered clothing and long pants are recommended. Walking sticks might be helpful.

How to Sign Up

See registration link above. Each person should register separately and indicate if they are bringing children. 

This event is free of charge.

About the Center

Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.