Elwha River

Fungal Biodiversity Survey

This project aims to uncover the hidden world of fungi in the former Lake Aldwell restoration area along the Elwha River. Fungi are an essential yet often overlooked component of our ecosystems, playing vital roles in soil health, plant growth, and nutrient cycling. Despite their importance, less than 5% of the world's fungal species have been documented. Our project seeks to bridge this knowledge gap by thoroughly documenting the fungal biodiversity in this unique and ecologically significant area.

Project Background

Lake Aldwell was once a reservoir created by the Elwha Dam, which was built in the early 20th century. In a monumental effort to restore the Elwha River ecosystem, the dam was removed in 2012, allowing the river to flow freely for the first time in over a century. The lake bed has since been undergoing a natural restoration process, with native vegetation gradually returning and wildlife reestablishing their habitats. This area provides a unique opportunity to study ecological recovery and the role of fungi in ecosystem restoration.

Objectives

Document Fungal Biodiversity: By collecting and identifying fungal specimens from various habitats within the restoration area, we aim to create a comprehensive inventory of the region's fungal species.

Promote Conservation and Restoration: Understanding fungal diversity and its ecological roles will help inform conservation efforts and guide future restoration practices to support a healthy and resilient ecosystem.

Engage and Educate the Public: Through educational workshops and public involvement, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of fungi and equip community members with the knowledge and skills to participate in fungal research and conservation.

Research Methods

Our research methods are designed to be thorough yet minimally invasive, ensuring we collect valuable data while preserving the natural integrity of the area. Here’s how we’ll go about it:

Systematic Collection: We'll systematically collect fungal specimens from different habitats and substrate types within the former Lake Aldwell restoration area. This will help us capture the diversity of fungi across various environmental conditions.

Photographic Documentation and Metadata Recording: Each fungal specimen will be photographed in detail to document key features. We’ll also record important metadata such as the date and time of collection, GPS coordinates, habitat descriptions, and associated plant species to provide context for each specimen. All specimens will be housed at the Burke Herbarium at the University of Washington.

DNA Barcoding and Microscopic Analysis: To accurately identify the fungi, we’ll use DNA barcoding, a method that analyzes the genetic material of the fungi. We’ll also conduct microscopic examinations to study their physical characteristics. This combined approach will ensure precise species identification and a better understanding of their ecological roles.

Above and Below Ground Surveys: By conducting both above-ground and below-ground surveys, we’ll capture a comprehensive picture of the fungal community. Above-ground surveys will focus on visible fruiting bodies, while below-ground surveys will examine the environmental DNA of fungi present in the soil.

Public Workshops and Involvement: As part of the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival, we hosted workshops to teach the public about fungal collection, identification, and research methods. Participants had the opportunity to join our fieldwork, helping to collect and document fungi, and gain hands-on experience in fungal research.

Collaborative Effort

This project is a collaborative effort involving the support of multiple institutions and organizations, including the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe's Natural Resources Department, Oregon State University, Western Washington University and the University of Washington Burke Herbarium. Together, we bring diverse expertise and resources to ensure the success of the research and its impact on conservation efforts.

Meet the Team

Lead Mycologist

Dr. Amy Honan

Amy is a mycologist studying fungal biodiversity, evolution, ecology, and biogeography. For her B.S., she studied the population genetics of the fungal root pathogen Armillaria. Her master’s thesis investigated the evolution of the saprotrophic fungal genus Tetrapyrgos. Amy’s Ph.D. dissertation explored the ecology, evolution and diversity of the stalked puffball genus Tulostoma. She is the co-founder of the Crested Butte Botanic Gardens and teaches mycology and fungal ecology for Oregon State University. Her current work involves documenting fungal biodiversity and ecology and understanding heavy metal tolerance in Suillus.

Founder

Graham Steinruck

Graham is the owner of Biodiversity Collective, a chef, and an aspiring community naturalist who wants to share his passion with others to promote the conservation of our natural world.

Burke Herbarium

Liv Fillaluna

Liv (they/them) currently works as fungal collection assistant at the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture in Seattle, WA. They just wrapped up their job as lab manager for the Forest Mycobiome Lab but remain an active member of lab activities. Liv's love of fungi started during their undergrad at Montana State University, where they worked with Dr. Cathy Cripps and received a B.S. in organismal biology. They then went to the University of Washington to complete a M.A. in Museum Studies during which they designed a digital repository for mycological archives and histories. Liv is also an active member of the mycological enthusiasts communities through such groups as the North American Mycological Association, Puget Sound Mycological Society, Stuntz Foundation, and now the Biodiversity Collective. Some through lines of their work include data wrangling, collection management, history of the myco-community, and history of mycology in the US.

Our Partners

Big Thanks!

Western_Washington_University_seal.svg.png