Nature & the Outdoors   

In this class discussions include defining the kingdom fungi, understanding what fungi does, how fungi, specifically mushrooms, benefit people, animals, plants and soil, what fungi does now with the help of science and invention, as well as the specific methods farmers use to mimic the natural lifecycle of mushrooms. There is an additional $40 course fee for home-grow kits students will receive in class. 

In this class discussions include the role of fungi in nature, the nutritional and medicinal benefits of mushrooms, foraging, gardening with mushrooms and cooking specialty mushrooms. There is an additional $40 fee for mushrooms and ingredients students will receive in class.

In this class students learn the details of farming chef quality specialty mushrooms. Discussions include the requirements for mycelial growth, pinning and fruiting, as well as the equipment and skill necessary to accomplish the mushroom lifecycle in its entirety. The class will also learn about food borne illness prevention, lab equipment and techniques, grow room specifics, storage of fresh mushrooms, marketing, sales, and the plethora of value-added products. No prerequisites required to participate in this course.  There is an additional $40 fee for mushroom cultures students will receive in class.

Utilizing outdoor experiences as well as classroom exercises, participants will deepen their connection to the vast web of nature that resides within and without. The goal is to use that partnership as a guide for their lives. Participants will leave the class knowing more about living well in the world with nature as their master teacher. Four Master Lessons of Nature will be taught. Bring a journal, hat, water and binoculars if you have them.Participants must be able to stand and/or walk for an hour or more.  Instructors will call participants the week before and let everyone know what outdoor setting will be the site for the first class. Subsequent classes will have different nature settings in the Verde Valley area.