Join us for a gorgeous spring day of learning all about cordyceps at Mushroom Mountain. Each student will get a copy of Will's Cordyceps Cultivation Handbook with their attendance.
When: Saturday - March 30, 2024
Where: Mushroom Mountain, 200 Finley Rd. Easley SC 29657
Accommodations: We are close to Clemson, and Greenville, SC. If you are wanting to camp, our favorite campground is Oconee State Park.
ABOUT THE CLASS
Introduction to Cordyceps Fungi - Explore the history, biology, and medicinal properties of cordyceps, emphasizing their importance in traditional Chinese medicine and modern healthcare.
Laboratory Setup and Sterile Technique - Learn the essential equipment, materials, and techniques required for cordyceps cultivation, with a focus on maintaining a sterile environment.
Cultivation Process - Dive into the step-by-step process of growing cordyceps, covering substrate preparation, inoculation, incubation, and fruiting, including troubleshooting common issues.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Processing - Discover the proper techniques for harvesting cordyceps, drying, and storing them to maximize their potency and shelf life.
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
This class is taught by our friend William Padilla-Brown, Founder and CEO of MycoSymbiotics.
William Padilla-Brown is a Multidisciplinary Citizen Scientist practicing social science, mycology, phycology, molecular biology, and additive manufacturing. William founded MycoSymbiotics in 2015, and has since developed it into the innovative practical applied biological science business it is today. William holds permaculture design certificates acquired through Susquehanna Permaculture and NGOZI, and a certificate from the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in algal culturing techniques. He has published the first English-language books on cultivating the cordyceps mushroom and regularly leads courses on their cultivation. William's research has been sponsored by several organizations and his work has been featured in multiple publications, including Fantastic Fungi and VICE. He also founded and manages MycoFest, an annual mushroom and arts festival, now on its tenth year!
SCHEDULE
Morning Session
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Introduction to Cordyceps Cultivation
- Welcome by William Padilla-Brown.
- Overview of the day's agenda and objectives.
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Brief history and importance of cordyceps cultivation
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM: Morning Break
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Short break for refreshments
10:45 AM - 12:00 PM: Cloning and Breeding Cordyceps Fungi
- Hands-on demonstration of cloning techniques
- Introduction to the genetics of cordyceps
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Group activities: Participants practice cloning and breeding
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch Break
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Delicious vegetarian mushroom lunch is provided. We will be preparing a few recipes including cordyceps
Afternoon Session
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Expanding Cultures and Substrates
- Techniques for expanding cordyceps cultures
- Preparing substrates for cordyceps growth
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Group exercises: Participants work on expanding cultures and preparing substrates
2:30 PM - 2:45 PM: Afternoon Break
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Short break for refreshments
2:45 PM - 4:00 PM: Preparing Nutrient Media for Cordyceps
- Introduction to nutrient media for cordyceps cultivation
- Hands-on demonstration of nutrient media preparation
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Group activities: Participants prepare nutrient media
Closing Session
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Cordyceps Cultivation Techniques and Troubleshooting
- Step-by-step guide to cordyceps cultivation
- Common challenges and troubleshooting tips
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Q&A session with William Padilla-Brown
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Certificate Ceremony and Networking
- Distribution of course completion certificates
- Networking and informal discussions with fellow participants
- Acknowledgment of sponsors and partners