Sonoma State University
December 12, 2026

Osborn Mushroom Blitz 2026

white and yellow mushroom cap with grass and leaves

Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sat, Dec 12, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Admission Fees: none
 
Register Here
 

This event is in collaboration with Sonoma Mountain Preservation

Wild fungi are amazing! They give us a window into the health of our ecosystems, play a vital role in plant growth and communication, and can remove heavy metals from soil and water. For the ninth consecutive year, students and the community will traverse the forests and fields of Osborn Preserve to collect and record as many fungal species as possible. Join us and build identification and sustainable harvesting skills while adding to our research database. A sister event is taking place at Galbreath Preserve on December 6th.

Presenter

Dr. Melina Kozanitas, vegetation data specialist at the California Native Plant Society and former SSU Biology/Mycology lecturer 

Logistics

After a brief training, we will break into groups to cover the most ground across the preserve. The maximum hike will be 3 miles with a 500-foot elevation gain, and all hikes are adaptable to participant abilities. Walking sticks might be helpful.

  • Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from Sonoma State University's main campus, on Lichau Road in Penngrove. Driving directions are available here in English and in Spanish.
  • Parking is limited so please consider carpooling, and park close together.
  • The preserve gate will be unlocked 15-minutes prior to the start time of the event. The preserve gate will be locked 15-minutes after the start of the event time. It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early. 
  • We will meet outside at the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Learning Center, which is across the footbridge on the east side of the parking lot. 
  • A restroom, sink for hand-washing, and potable water are available on site. 
  • 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). 
  • Pets and smoking are not permitted. 
  • Preserve regulations prohibit foraging for food. 
  • Due to narrow, rocky, unpaved trails, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted. 
  • This is a rain or shine event, though severe storm may cancel 
  • No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.

What to Bring

Sturdy footwear for hiking is required. Please bring a backpack, a water bottle, and snacks for the trail. Layered clothing, long pants, toe-covered shoes, rain gear, a hat, sun protection, and insect protection are recommended. Walking sticks may 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.

Contact Email: winingek@sonoma.edu
Contact Phone: 7076644056

Sonoma State University acknowledges the Coast Miwok, Central and Southern Pomo, and the Wappo as the traditional stewards of our preserved lands. Let it be acknowledged that the Sonoma State University campus is located within the traditional homelands of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. Sonoma State offers deep gratitude to the original stewards of this land and recognizes its immense historical, spiritual, and personal significance to the Native nations and peoples of this region.

Sonoma State University reconoce a los Miwok de la costa (Coast Miwok), los Pomo del centro y del sur (Central and Southern Pomo), y los Wappo como los guardianes tradicionales de nuestros terrenos preservados. Cabe destacar que el campus de Sonoma State University está ubicado dentro de las tierras tradicionales de los Indios Federados de Graton Rancheria (Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria). Sonoma State expresa su profunda gratitud a los guardianes originales de esta tierra y reconoce el inmenso significado histórico, espiritual, y personal a las naciones y pueblos indígenas de esta región.