News Release
NORTH WEBSTER — As spring stirs the Hoosier forest floors, a new local series aims to turn curious hikers into confident foragers.
However, for those interested in the ancient art of foraging, getting started can be daunting, and even for experts, sharing their interest in foraging with others deepens skills while building community.
As a new resource, North Webster-based media and education company NourishCap has
announced the launch of “Friendly Foragers,” a free, weekly walk-and-learn series. Friendly
Foragers will safely explore wild mushrooms, plants, and geology in Indiana.
The inaugural walk is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Participants will meet in
North Webster at 5:30 p.m. before caravanning to the nearby Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area per details at NourishCap.com/FriendlyForagers.
Beyond the Morel: A Year-Round World of Fungi
While many local foragers focus exclusively on the high-stakes “morel season” in late spring, the Friendly Foragers series aims to show that the Indiana woods have much more to offer year-round. Group leader Benjamin Ashpole is a Hoosier Mushroom Society certified forager and YouTube educator. He focuses on increasing community, knowledge, and safety.
“Morel season gets people excited, but there’s a whole world of fungi and forest life out there the rest of the year, too,” says Ashpole. “These walks will tap into that curiosity in a safe, grounded way.”
Rather than “chasing baskets” of edibles, the curriculum emphasizes practical field skills.
Participants will learn how to:
● Safely recognize common wild mushrooms, berries, and fruits.
● Identify trees, fallen cones, and greens that indicate specific habitats.
● Understand the vital safety limits required for foraging.
● Slow down and build confidence in navigating local trails. Community-Centered Education
The initiative is part of NourishCap’s broader mission to make gourmet, functional, and practical mushroom knowledge accessible to everyone looking to deepen their understanding of local forests.
Hike-ready persons interested in joining the March 25 walk or future events can find more information and register at NourishCap.com/FriendlyForagers.
