My name is Steven Van Zandt, I started picking mushrooms back in the mid 1980's with my father and have been doing it ever since as time has provided. I have been in Vermont for almost 9 years and I have gained a decent understanding of the varieties of forest types in the state, what mushrooms grow in these different areas, and why they grow where they do. I also have a handful of experts that I
am able to consult with about mycological issues as well as a few that I talk with about natural communities within the forest: trees, soil, plants, etc. If it's in the forest and it is edible and healthy, I can probably get it for you. I am happy to share my knowledge whether by phone, text, e-mail, or out in the woods. I am an Environmental Science major and I am hoping to gain a good amount of scholastic insight while pursuing my degree, and then combine that with the many years of hands on experience I have. I am really into sustainability, and that passion goes far beyond the forest. To me sustainable wild harvesting is "ethical" wild harvesting, as with so many things we have labeled "sustainable" we could almost certainly use the word ethical in place of it to convey the same thing....I think. I have so many friends who surf, kite board,skate,run, do yoga, hike...etc, etc, etc and I am excited that more are getting on board with the medicinals! In reality most mushrooms have a "medicinal" value. Ganoderma tsugae, also gives me a clean energy boost in addition to all of the health benefits! I challenge you all to seek out wild edibles in your area, especially mushrooms, you will be happy you did and that's my word. Try and eat as local as possible and as seasonal as possible too...the results will astound you! If you have any questions OR any insight for me please get in touch....I really like being challenged to learn more about what I do, and anyone who asks ANY question or offers any insight as to what I do is greatly appreciated! Your inquiry = OUR education. We are on this planet together, so it would be nice to try and live as a family as much as possible, and treat the Earth as though it's the only one we have....because it is.
+Peace, Love, and Respect+
VZ
