As spring temperatures rise, local conservation officials say morel mushroom season is approaching across North Iowa.
As aired on the “Outdoors in North Iowa” podcast, Aubrey Brandt, a naturalist with Franklin and Wright County Conservation, offers some timing tips for those looking to forage.
“The biggest thing to keep in mind is timing,” Brandt says. “Of course, each year is going to vary a little bit on its timing. Usually, April to mid-May is the best time to search. However, you want to pay more attention to the weather and the soil temperature.”
Brandt notes ideal conditions include daytime temperatures in the 60s, nighttime temperatures in the 50s and soil temperatures around 53 degrees.
Hunters are encouraged to look near dead or dying elm trees, old apple orchards and river bottoms. Brandt also recommends adjusting search techniques to improve success.
“Carry around a corn cob,” says Brandt. “I know it sounds weird, but the texture of a corn cob is very similar to a morel’s honeycomb cap. Looking at it every few minutes resets your brain to find that specific pattern on the forest floor. Also, get low. If you’re standing six feet tall, you’re missing half of the haul. Crouch down and look up the hills.”
Brandt reminds foragers to confirm mushrooms are safe to eat, wear blaze orange as it is turkey hunting season and to check regulations before harvesting on public land. You can find full episodes of the “Outdoors in North Iowa” podcast at radioonthego.com.
