Mushroom Festival celebrates the fungus among us

By Molly Blancett Published: Oct 26, 2008 at 6:12 PM PDT Last Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 4:33 AM PDT

MOUNT PISGAH ARBORETUM -- One thing the Northwest climate is perfect for is growing mushrooms.

More than 350 specimens of funky fungi were on display at Mount Pisgah's Mushroom Festival. Organizers said it appears this year's event will break attendance records. A thousand people had already wandered through the gates in the first two hours.

"This area is one of the most mushroom rich areas you can go," said Organizer Clare Bennett.

For those who aren't fungus fans, there was plenty of other activities. Folks could move to some music or hop on a hayride. The Cascade Mycological Society and Lane Community College sponsored the event.