“As lightning-caused fires ravage California, researchers across the state look for new ways to help mitigate potential vegetation fuel loads in our forested systems. Conservation Works is also exploring new techniques, including the use of Turkey Tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) to inhibit re-sprouting of tanoak typically cut and/or treated with herbicides during logging and post-logging operations.
The turkey Tail is a common native and beneficial woodland fungi. These saprophytes are “bracket” fungi—growing shelf-like—and occur in diverse locations in Mendocino County forests on dead or rotting stumps and branches, and may be gathered for their medicinal and natural dye purposes. Conservation Works’ project is providing an evaluation of the use of these native fungi as an alternative method for brush control to reduce fire hazards on forestland properties by inoculating tan oak stumps with native Turkey Tail mushroom spawn to determin if the fungi will inhibit brush regrowth. The test sites are underway on managed timberland along the north coast, and additional data collection by local landowners is adding to our evaluation. Interim progress can be followed on our Facebook page where interested individuals can join our Turkey Tail Facebook Group.”
More information on Conservation Works / North Coast RC&D and their programs can be found on their Facebook page or their website.
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