Hi my name is Dmitri Wood but my friends call me “Nerdy” and I have been foraging for mushrooms for personal use in Colorado for the past 22 years (Since 2004). I am recognized by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment as a wild mushroom identification expert for 43 edible mushroom species, and my list is still growing. Over the years I have had the pleasure of finding and enjoying plenty of edible mushrooms like morels, lobsters, oysters, boletes, chanterelles, cremini, etc, the list is long and gets pretty exotic.
I am an active member of the Colorado Mycological Society, where I’ve received foray leadership training. I’ve also assisted other mushroom clubs across Colorado's front range with forays, classes and events, such as the Pikes Peak Mycological Society, University of Colorado Mycological Society, Colorado College’s Project Mush Club and the Pikes Peak Myco League.
My expertise and contribution to mycology goes far beyond gourmet mushrooms. I am actively participating in the fungal biodiversity assessment of Colorado by documenting, collecting, identifying and submitting for DNA sequencing all species of wild mushroom I come across. As an iNaturalist Ambassador, I also provide mycology help through the iNaturalist app and website by helping others identify their wild mushroom finds. When I host iNaturalist ambassador events, I share my findings of rare, undescribed and newly discovered mushrooms and educate the public on how they too can contribute.
I also serve (at large) on the board of Operation CAPS, a mycology focused 501c3 serving veterans, marginalized populations, at-risk youth, individuals suffering from addiction, PTSD and food insecurity. Where I lead the Education & Field Mycology Team.
I am also the founder and current president of the Colorado Myco League, a 501c3 public charity focused on educating the public on the benefits that all fungi can provide. Through the Colorado Myco League I offer charitable access to regular mycology themed events, classes, forays, and mushrooms.
