THE BIODIVERSITY COLLECTIVE
Elwha River Fungal Biodiversity Survey
The Elwha Fungal Biodiversity Survey documents fungal diversity in the Elwha River valley, focusing on areas recovering after dam removal. Through fieldwork, specimen collection, and DNA analysis, the project is building a record of fungi that helps illuminate their role in ecosystem recovery and resilience. Participants from the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Fest and local students directly contribute to this work, connecting science with community and celebrating the region’s unique fungal biodiversity.
U.S. Route 101 crossing the Elwha River with Mt Fairchild in the Background. by Sea Cow (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Role of Fungi in Recovery
The Elwha River valley is one of the largest ecological restoration sites in North America, following the removal of two dams that once blocked salmon runs and reshaped the landscape. As plants, animals, and waterways recover, fungi play a critical role in rebuilding soils, supporting vegetation, and cycling nutrients. Documenting fungal diversity here helps scientists understand how ecosystems heal and adapt over time.
This work is both scientific and community‑driven. Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival participants and local students contribute directly to surveys and collections, creating a shared record of biodiversity. The study also recognizes the cultural significance of the Elwha River to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, whose stewardship and connection to this land guide the broader restoration story.
"Mycena subsect. Purae sp. WA05"
a novel DNA barcode from our survey.
© Tyler Brunner
The Elwha River Fungal Biodiversity Survey combines traditional fieldwork with modern DNA sequencing to build a comprehensive record of fungal diversity. Volunteers and students join researchers in the field to collect specimens, record habitat data, and photograph fungi in their natural settings. All collections are accessioned at the Burke Museum at the University of Washington, ensuring they are preserved and available for future research.
By involving participants from the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Festival and local institutions, the survey creates opportunities for hands‑on learning and community science. Each contribution adds to a growing dataset that supports restoration research and deepens our collective understanding of the Elwha River valley.
Connopus 'bagleyensis'
© Tyler Brunner
Learning from the Elwha River Valley
The Elwha River Fungal Biodiversity Survey is more than a catalog of species. It helps reveal how fungi support ecosystem recovery, offering insights that strengthen restoration efforts across the Olympic Peninsula. By involving festival participants, students, and local partners, the survey builds connections between science, community, and the cultural significance of the Elwha River.
Each observation adds to a growing record of biodiversity that will guide future conservation work. This foundation prepares us to share species lists and conservation rankings for Washington and the Olympic Peninsula, making fungal diversity easier to understand and protect.
The Elwha River Fungal Biodiversity Survey is guided by a collaborative team of researchers, students, and community partners who share a passion for fungi and restoration. Researchers and coordinators lead the scientific design, fieldwork, and data analysis, ensuring the survey contributes to both ecological knowledge and conservation. Students and volunteers join in the field to collect specimens, record observations, and gain hands‑on experience in biodiversity science.
Community partners, the Olympic Peninsula Fungi Fest, and local universities, help connect the survey to broader audiences and perspectives. Tribal members, educators, and conservation groups contribute knowledge and guidance, ensuring the work honors the Elwha River’s cultural and ecological significance. Together, these contributions make the survey a living collaboration that blends field science, education, and place-based insight to build a fuller picture of fungal diversity in the Elwha Valley.
Meet the Team
Watch the Story
Sponsors & Partners
The Elwha River Fungal Biodiversity Survey grows through the support of sponsors, partners, and community members who believe in protecting biodiversity. Their contributions make it possible to explore the Elwha's forests, preserve specimens, and share knowledge through workshops and events.
© Tyler Brunner
Contact Us
We welcome questions, collaborations, and community involvement. The Elwha River Fungal Biodiversity Survey is built on shared curiosity and support, and we’re always glad to connect with those interested in fungi, conservation, or upcoming events.
For inquiries about the survey, workshops, or our upcoming Kaua‘i Mushroom Summit 2026, please reach out through our Contact Page.