Mycologist Explains The Magic Of Northwest Fungi

Mycologist Paul Stamets calls fungi “the soil magicians of nature.” He says they were the first organisms to come to land 1.3 billion years ago.

Stamets has spent his career searching for ways to learn from nature’s secrets to heal humans and the planet. One focus of his research is Northwest mycelium.

Over the years he has filed 22 patents for mushroom-related technologies, including fungal pesticides that trick insects into eating them and mushrooms that can break down the neurotoxins used in nerve gas.

In this talk Stamets discusses the broad range of species that exist on this planet. He offers insights into how fungi can boost the health of people and the environment. And he explains the relationship between the dwindling diversity of fungi, the colony collapse of honey bees and how knowledge of both could help save our ecosystem.

Stamets is a renowned mycologist, author and advocate for bioremediation and medicinal mushrooms. His work was featured in the documentary film “The 11th Hour.”

He spoke at Town Hall Seattle on May 4, at an event hosted by The Common Acre. Thanks to Jennie Cecil Moore for our recording.