For our March program we're going to learn about rust and smut fungi from Emily Bruns, an ecologist at the University of Maryland College Park.  If you're asking yourself what exactly are these types of fungi, you're not alone; many are common pathogens of our agricultural crops - all the more reason for you to come join us, and learn a little about the life cycle of these ubiquitous fungi.

Weather depending, our lecturer plans to follow up her talk by leading a foray the following weekend, which is a very fine idea indeed.  It's going to feel great to finally get outside again.

We're also planning to have a short talk about pyrophilous (fire-loving) fungi at Tuesday's meeting too.  These opportunistic fungi are the first to appear after forest-fires, many of which require intense heat to germinate.  Two lectures; one evening; what fun!