REI Foray

Greetings REI friends! We're excited to lead this foray for you! Our location is currently set to TBD, the spot will be selected as we get closer to the date. Because we will be going out mid-July, we'll head to the Uintas up Mirror Lake Highway to get to high elevations. We reccommend carpooling as parking is often limited. 

Please note:

• This foray is exclusive to Vinny Taranto's team at REI  - we ask that you do not bring any additional guests to this foray. 
• ALL participants must register - we require identifiation inforamation and a liability waiver from each person who participants on an MSU excursion.

What should I bring?

• LAYERS - Weather is unpredictable, wearing/brining layers is highly recommended to ensure your comfort. Light-weight long sleeves and pants are also recommended as protection from scratches and scrapes!
• APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR - Both for your safety and freedom of movement, wear shoes with appropriate tread. Hiking boots are highly recommended. Hiking sandals may work in certain locations, but are generally not recommended due to off-trail walking.
• SUN & BUG PROTECTION - Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and bug repellant are recommended, as well as light-weight long sleeves/pants.
• WATER/SNACKS - Hydration and fuel are especially important when outdoors—please plan accordingly!
• FORAGING TOOLS - Bag: Mesh bags are highly recommended for carrying mushrooms to allow airflow. Other options are baskets, cotton canvas bags (waxed or unwaxed), paper bags (waxed or unwaxed). We discourage plastic bags, as these will trap in moisture and ruin your mushrooms. Brush: Mushrooms release moisture once they’ve been picked, so cleaning off dirt in the field will help you avoid a muddy mess in your bag. Brushes made for mushroom cleaning or “chip” paint brushes are recommended. Toothbrushes, or anything with tougher/less flexible bristles are too rough for most mushrooms. Knife: Outdoor knives or “foam” utility knives are great for bisecting and cleaning up mushrooms.
• SAFETY TOOLS - Communication Device(s): Make sure your phone is charged for safety and general communication. Some foray leaders have walkie talkies, so if you have one, bring it! Whistle: If you have an emergency whistle (either your own or from a past MSU foray), bring it! Participants who don’t will be given one. Compass/map: You can never be too safe when you’re out in the wilderness. Downloading the area you’re in on your phone’s map app is always a good idea when you’re going out of service. Medication: If you require life saving medication, such as an Epinephrine, please carry it with you and let your foray leader know.

What should I do to prepare?

• Eat a healthy meal and ensure hydration before you head out.
• Check the weather map so you know how to dress. There are plenty of occasions where the valley is sunny and the canyons are rainy.
• Let someone close to you know what you will be doing and when to expect to hear from you afterwards.
• Make sure that your car can make the trip, especially if you are headed into the canyons. Check your tires for tread, nails, and air, as well as your gas and oil levels.
• Study what mushrooms you may find in the area during the current season!