The Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz (FFSC) is a North American mycological clubSanta Cruz Public Libraries: Community Information DatabaseBay Nature magazine: organization page for FFSCSanta Cruz Wiki: FFSC page that evolved as a result of David Arora’s mushroom classes and early Fungus Fairs in the Santa Cruz, California area in the 1970’s.
Mission The mission of the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz is "to foster and expand, through education and by example, the understanding and appreciation of mycology and to assist the general public and related institutions or groups to further this goal".FFSC mission on the FFSC public website
Organization FFSC was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 1984.IRS: Exempt Organizations Select Check
Activities There are many facets to the FFSC, with something to interest everyone. One of the FFSC's largest public and most popular events is an annual Fungus Fair.Santa Cruz Sentinel: Santa Cruz Fungus Fair highlights the culinary joys of wild mushroomsGood Times magazine: Fungus Among UsEdible Monterey Bay: an article on the Fungus Fair Members and non-members get together for local and long-distance forays, fun foodie events, meetings, and educational events. The FFSC also provides grants to mycology students and identification services to local hospitals.
The FFSC is currently embarking upon a project to fund DNA sequencing of herbarium specimens at the University of California, Santa Cruz. This initiative is part of the greater North American Mycoflora Project,North American Mycoflora Project website a joint venture of the Mycological Society of America, and the North American Mycological Association. Their motto: “Without a sequenced specimen, it’s a rumor”.
Membership Membership is open to anyone who is interested in fungi. There is a small yearly membership fee which is discounted to the existing members. More information about the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz membership can be found on FFSC Members Page.
References
External links The Official Website of The Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz David Arora's Website North American Mycoflora Project Mycological Society of America North American Mycological Association