Frequently Asked Questions
General Curiosity
It is our belief that misuse is most often caused by two factors: (i) Ignorance of the Rules and (ii) Alienation from Nature.
How We Address (i) Ignorance of the Rules
We take careful steps to ensure all of our operations comply with Ontario Regulation 688/21 of the Conservation Authorities Act and use each excursion as an opportunity to educate participants on the rules of conduct it establishes. We also clarify how these rules apply to foraging specifically, fostering a broader understanding of where foraging is and isn’t permitted and what the consequences are for failing to follow regulations.
Stewardship and sustainability are central to our operations, guiding every aspect of our excursions. We emphasize practices that align with these principles, ensuring that the knowledge and skills participants take with them promote responsible and ethical engagement with nature.
How We Address (ii) Alienation from Nature
We believe that when people develop a deeper understanding of and connection to the ecosystems around them, they are more likely to respect and protect them. That’s why our approach fosters a more personal connection to nature by teaching about wild foods and remedies. Food and medicine are fundamental to our wellbeing, and by highlighting the natural spaces that sustain these things, we help participants recognize that preserving these spaces is just as essential to our wellbeing. As a result nature and conservation are transformed from abstract ideals into personal priorities.
We believe that cultivating knowledge and a personal connection to nature is the key to fostering responsible and sustainable engagement with the land. By bridging gaps in understanding and strengthening people’s relationship with the natural world, we empower participants to explore with care and respect. Through education and experience, we encourage a deeper appreciation for the ecosystems that sustain us, ensuring that these landscapes remain healthy and protected for generations to come.
No.
What we see as Mushrooms are actually the "fruit" of a nearby, underground Mycelium body, similar to how Apples are the fruit of Apple Trees. In the same way that responsibly harvesting Apples from Apple Trees does not harm the Apple Tree or prevent it from producing Apples again in future seasons, responsibly harvesting Mushrooms does not harm the Mycelium or prevent it from producing more Mushrooms.
Responsible or sustainable mushroom harvesting ensures the long-term health of fungal populations and their ecosystems by balancing human use with nature’s needs. We advocate for and follow these guidelines at all times:
- Respecting all local laws and foraging guidelines to protect sensitive environments and ecosystems
- Always leave immature mushrooms to mature and release spores
- Harvest moderately, only taking less than 50% of mushrooms found
- Use breathable baskets or mesh bags to aid natural spore dispersal
- Rotate foraging sites to allow populations to recover and minimize physical impact to the environment (i.e., ground compaction, etc.)
- Never remove all specimens from one spot and refrain from taking mushrooms critical to local wildlife or ecosystem functions
- Cleaning up any litter discovered to ensure habitats remain healthy for fungi and other species
By following these guidelines, we can enjoy the rewards of mushroom foraging while supporting the delicate balance of nature, ensuring fungi thrive for future generations. Sustainable harvesting nurtures both our connection to nature and the resilience of these vital ecosystems.
Absolutely!
Our Guide has learned from a variety of books, podcasts, websites, and personalities that have helped fuel her curiosity. We’ve curated a list of these resources (here) for anyone eager to dive deeper into the world of foraging, mushrooms, and nature.
Questions About Spore & Lore
Spore & Lore is all about reconnecting people with the natural world through guided foraging excursions. We focus on teaching participants how to identify wild mushrooms and edible plants, while also sharing knowledge about sustainable foraging practices and the rich history of our ecosystems.
Spore & Lore was born out of a lifelong love for nature and a fascination with the hidden treasures of the wild. Inspired by childhood adventures exploring forests and a deep respect for the wisdom of ancient traditions, our goal is to blend education, curiosity, and connection in every excursion.
We’re based in Southwestern Ontario, Canada, and operate excursions throughout the region’s diverse natural landscapes. From lush forests to hidden trails, we aim to highlight the unique beauty of Ontario’s ecosystems.
Our mission is to inspire curiosity and respect for the natural world by offering immersive educational and foraging experiences. Through education and hands-on exploration, we aim to foster a deeper connection to the environment and promote sustainable practices that protect our ecosystems for generations to come.
We’re committed to giving back by promoting sustainable foraging practices, educating participants about environmental stewardship, and supporting local conservation initiatives. Whenever possible, we also collaborate with local private woodlot owners, businesses and organizations to strengthen our community’s connection to nature.
Absolutely!
Spore & Lore operates as a fully incorporated business in Ontario, Canada, and adheres to all applicable provincial and federal regulations. We ensure compliance with conservation authority guidelines and maintain the necessary permissions for operating within designated areas.
Yes. We take safety and responsibility seriously, which is why Spore & Lore carries comprehensive liability insurance. Additionally, we list our landowner partners as additional insureds, providing them with indemnification for added protection and peace of mind.
If you are a landowner or organization interested in partnering with us and have specific insurance-related questions, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to provide details as needed.
Yes!
We love collaborating with local organizations and private landowners that share our passion for nature and education.
More information about our partnerships can be found here.
The pagan wheel of the year reflects a deep reverence for the cycles of nature, which aligns perfectly with our values. By organizing excursions around these seasonal markers, we not only honor ancient traditions but also help participants connect more meaningfully with the rhythms of the natural world.
The name “Spore & Lore” captures the essence of what we do: exploring the world of fungi (spores) and sharing the rich stories, traditions, and knowledge (lore) that connect us to the natural world. It’s a playful nod to the curiosity and learning that define every excursion.
About Excursions
Our excursions are led by Felicia" Spore & Lore’s guide and ambassador between the wild and civilization. Felicia brings years of foraging experience, wilderness knowledge, and a passion for sharing the secrets of the natural world.
Excursions are conducted in English.
Exact start and end times vary by excursion type and season. These details will be provided during booking.
Please arrive on time. Check-in lasts about 10-15 minutes, and this serves as a buffer for latecomers. However, out of respect for the group, we cannot delay beyond this window.
Yes, there will be opportunities to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the surroundings at intervals suitable for the group and terrain.
In general, you'll need all of the below:
- Sun Protection (i.e., Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses, etc.)
- Hydration (i.e., Water, Electrolyte Drinks, etc.)
- Insect Protection (i.e., sprays, protective clothing/shields, etc.)
- Rain Protection (*based on season/forecast)
- Sturdy Footwear (i.e., Hiking Boots, etc., not sandals, flipflops, flats, etc.)
Some events will require different things, so please review the details for each:
We provide either an address or GPS coordinates for the rendezvous point. Remote locations without conventional addresses can be navigated to using these coordinates.
Locations may change due to weather, trail closures, or other conditions. We also rotate through regional locations to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable foraging.
Sometimes.
Many Standard and Badge Excursion locations have nearby parking areas, but some do not. Bushwhacking locations rarely have parking, requiring roadside shoulder parking instead. When parking on a shoulder, ensure your vehicle is pulled over safely and fully, and be cautious of soft ground to avoid getting stuck.
We'll get wet 🤷♀️
Excursions proceed rain or shine. Be prepared to get wet and bring appropriate rain gear for yourself and any children in your care.
Difficulty varies by excursion type. Standard excursions are easy to moderate, badge excursions may involve more challenging hikes, and bushwhacking excursions are rigorous and require a higher level of stamina and determination.
We strive to make our excursions as accessible as nature allows, but wild areas are rarely ADA compliant. Please contact us with specific concerns.
Excursions are designed for an older audience but may appeal to naturally curious older, yet underage (18 and younger) participants. Unfortunately, young children may struggle to engage with the content or independently manage the terrain, so the minimum age for participation in Standard Excursions is 15 with an accompanying adult. Participants must be 19 or older to take part in Bushwhacking Excursions.
Unfortunately, no pets are permitted. Even leashed, they can slow the group, cause disruptions, and create additional challenges for participants.
- Standard Excursions: No prior knowledge is required.
- Badge Excursions: Hiking experience is helpful, and some background in mycology can enhance the experience but isn’t necessary.
- Bushwhacking: Experience or a strong interest in foraging is highly recommended for an enjoyable experience.
Please assess your own risk regarding plant, insect, or environmental allergies. Carry any necessary medications (e.g., EpiPens), and inform the guide of any critical allergies.
The guide is trained in remote wilderness first aid and carries a first aid kit and bear mace. Safety guidelines will be reviewed before setting out.
Encounters with dangerous wildlife are extremely unlikely in our region The guide carries bear mace as a precaution and will provide instructions on safe wildlife behaviour if necessary.
Participants in Standard and Badge Excursions will receive cultivated or pre-foraged mushrooms from Spore & Lore to take home, as foraging is not part of this excursion type.
Foraging is permitted only during Bushwhacking Excursions. Standard and Badge Excursions are educational, and observational specimens collected are not taken home.
Nature is unpredictable. While it’s rare to leave completely empty-handed, it is always a possibility. Foraging depends on the season, weather, and luck.
Excursions cover plant and mushroom identification and use, sustainable foraging practices, ecological knowledge, and the cultural lore surrounding the natural world. Depending on Excursion type, you can generally expect the following topics to be addressed:
- Location-Specific Details (type of property, ownership/management, unique features, rules, etc.)
- Responsible Access (foraging and off-trail exploring prohibitions, trespassing, consequences, etc.)
- General Safety (guarding against ticks, identifying and avoiding environmental hazards etc.)
- Stewardship Principles (recognizing and managing access impact, etc.)
- Plant Identification and Safety (safe and hazardous, uses and dangers, etc.)
- Mushroom Identification and Safety (how to identify mushroom species, safe and hazardous species, uses and dangers etc.)
Private excursions for charity or organized events may be considered on a case-by-case basis. However, private bookings for individuals or small groups are not offered at this time.
Not at all.
But reviews would be greatly appreciated!
Leave a Review in the "About" section of our Facebook page
Questions About Tickets
Yes, all service fees imposed by Ticket Tailor and Stripe are included in the price of the ticket. You won’t see any additional fees added at checkout.
Tickets are non-refundable. However, if Spore & Lore cancels an event, ticket holders will receive a refund for the ticket price (service fees are non-refundable).
Yes, tickets can be transferred to another person. Please contact us in advance with the new attendee’s details to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Tickets can be exchanged for a different date within the same excursion type, provided tickets for the desired date are available and the request is made at least 5 business days before the original event date.
No, all tickets must be purchased through our ticketing system, which includes service fees. This ensures a secure and streamlined booking process.
Yes, all attendees, including underage participants, require a ticket to participate in excursions. Children's tickets can only be purchased in combination with Adult tickets.
There is no group discount option currently available through our ticketing system. However, large groups are encouraged to contact us directly, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
Yes! We will soon offer a "Gift an Excursion" page where you can purchase gift vouchers to send to someone special. They can use the voucher to book an excursion of their choice.
If an event is cancelled, ticket holders will be notified and refunded the ticket price. Unfortunately, service fees are non-refundable as they are retained by the ticketing platform.
Occasionally, locations may need to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather or conservation area closures. If this happens, ticket holders will be notified of the updated location as soon as possible.
Tickets are provided electronically via Ticket Tailor. You will receive your ticket by email, and it will be redeemed electronically during check-in at the start of the excursion.
Questions About Our Guide
She's feral but harmless.
We gave her a phone and Social Media accounts, but she’s still figuring those things out 🤔. No bitings have been reported, but as with anything, we don't recommend pushing it.
The strangest thing she’s ever found (though not foraged) is Xylaria Polymorpha, also known as "Deadman’s Fingers." These eerie, finger (...and toe...)-like fungi look like something straight out of a horror movie. While fascinating, they’re not edible—so don’t expect them on the menu.
Yup! And you can see some of the dishes here if you're curious.
Our guide has prepared countless meals from her foraged finds and takes great care in proper identification and preparation. Rigorous methods, including spore prints and detailed analysis, ensure everything is safe to eat. Proper cooking techniques are equally essential, making every meal as safe as it is delicious.
Nope!
Thanks to rigorous identification practices and careful preparation, neither the guide nor anyone she’s cooked for has ever gotten sick or been poisoned. Her thoroughness and attention to detail in both identification and cooking are key to her success.
Grifola Frondosa, also known as "Hen of the Woods" or "Maitake," holds the top spot.
Unless the Mushrooms and Woodland Critters appear to be talking back, then yes!
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