Explore Green-Wood’s Fungal Biodiversity: Cemetery Meadow

Dig into Green-Wood’s fungal biodiversity with a hands-on community science soil sampling session in the Cemetery Meadow. Come learn about fungi at Green-Wood! Join MYCOmmunity Mapping Project on a community science dig to learn about the fungal lives beneath our feet. We will take soil samples in one of Green-Wood’s meadows to test for fungal DNA and contribute to greater understanding of urban biodiversity. This session will start with a brief introduction to local soil and mycorrhizal fungi, why they matter, and why we want to get to know them. After a brief presentation, participants will dig in—literally—by taking soil samples together. After the dig, Green-Wood Environmental Research Fellows Whitney Bauck and Lauren Wilson will sequence the fungal DNA in the samples with lab partners. They will share these lab findings in a presentation open to the public at the end of their fellowship. No prior knowledge of soil science or fungi necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty. What to expect: The programming and education will be geared primarily toward an adult audience, but kids are very welcome. Be prepared for at least 30 minutes of walking with some steep hills within the cemetery About the facilitators: Whitney Bauck and Lauren Wilson are Green-Wood Cemetery Environmental Research Fellows and founders of MYCOmmunity Mapping Project, who started out as friends, neighbors, and dirt and fungi lovers living in Brooklyn. Free. Registration required. Please consider a $10 donation to the Green-Wood Historic Fund so that we can continue to offer more programs like this throughout the year. Before Reserving Your Spot, Please Note: • Tickets: There is no need to print tickets! Attendees will be checked in by name. • Where To Go: Check-in takes place in the classroom at The Green-House at Green-Wood (700 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232). • Rain date: Sunday, September 27, 2-4pm. • What to wear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring your own water, sunglasses/hats, and sunscreen and bug spray as desired • Registration & Photography Notice: By registering for this event, participants agree to share their contact information with MYCOmmunity Mapping Project for event-related communications and future updates about the project. Participants also consent to being photographed and/or filmed during the event, and to the use of those images by Green-Wood and MYCOmmunity Mapping Project for educational, promotional, and marketing purposes. • Inclement Weather Policy: We monitor weather conditions throughout the day for the best chance of proceeding with the tour, and will not make a final decision until approximately 3 hours before the start of the tour. Cancellations will be announced via Eventbrite email blasts, so check your email and spam folders. • A Little More About Safety: Unless there is a medical emergency, it may be difficult to exit quickly during the tour. Please consider these limitations before purchasing tickets. • Accessibility & Safety: Walking tour routes cover hilly, grassy, and uneven terrain. This tour is not accessible for those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids and may be difficult for those with balance or other mobility issues. There is no place to sit down during the tour. For other disability-related accommodations, contact us at 718-768-7300 or [email protected]. We strongly encourage attendees to wear suitable footwear. Photo Credit: MYCOmmunity Mapping Project