Saturday 4 October 2025
British Mycological Society invites us to come to the Yorkshire Arboretum to mark UK Fungi Day 2025 with a programme of events celebrating the diversity, ecology and importance of fungi.
We are especially pleased that MYFG President, Malcolm Greaves, will be leading the day’s autumn foray.
UK Fungi Day highlights the critical roles fungi play in our ecosystems—from nutrient cycling and symbiosis to plant health—and raises awareness of current research and conservation efforts. The event at the Yorkshire Arboretum will bring together scientists, field mycologists and educators to share expertise, encourage observation, and foster public engagement.
Autumn Fungal Foray with Malcolm Greaves
Join Malcolm Greaves, President of the Mid-Yorkshire Fungus Group, for a guided foray around the Arboretum grounds, surveying and recording the seasonal fruiting bodies of fungi. This is an opportunity to develop field identification skills and observe the ecological relationships between fungi, plants and their environment.
£20 – booking recommended.
Scientific Demonstrations
Researchers from Fera Science will lead mini laboratory sessions throughout the day, offering visitors the opportunity to examine fungal structures under the microscope and discuss their biology, identification and significance with experienced mycologists.
Pathogen Trail: Fungi as Plant Villains
Dr Charles Lane, Plant Pathologist and Tree Health Specialist, will lead guided tours of the Arboretum’s collection focusing on fungal plant pathogens. Participants will learn how these species arrive and spread, their impact on tree health, and current approaches to monitoring and biosecurity.
Free – booking recommended.
Citizen Science Fungi Trail
Visitors will also be invited to take part in the BMS ‘Find a Fungus’ survey using the iNaturalist app. A designated trail will highlight key species of interest and provide guidance on how to record and submit observations to contribute to national data on fungal distribution.
Tree Health Volunteering
The Yorkshire Arboretum is seeking new Tree Health Volunteers to join its regular Wednesday survey team. Volunteers play a vital role in monitoring the collection for early signs of pests and diseases, providing essential data for conservation and management.
Event Information
Date: Saturday 4 October 2025
Location: Yorkshire Arboretum
Cost: The main event is free (apart from the foray), but standard Arboretum admission applies.
Booking: Recommended for the Fungal Foray and Pathogen Trail.
This event is part of the UK Fungi Day programme coordinated by the British Mycological Society, aiming to increase public understanding and appreciation of fungi and their importance to life on Earth.
