“Nature and Uses for Spent Mushroom Substrate” is the topic for an international symposium to be held in Concordville, Delaware County, September 17-20.

The symposium will combine the scholarly, interdisciplinary work of scientists, experts from the mushroom industry and others involved in recycling activities who will share their knowledge and experience in working with spent mushroom substrate (SMS).

The preliminary program includes sessions on the nature of SMS, environmental and legal considerations, traditional and new uses of SMS, case studies, product marketing and a field trip to working sites.

“Mushroom farmers dispose of “spent” substrate at the end of each crop,” said Dr. David Beyer of Penn State University. “A variety of uses and constraints for disposing of composted materials confront farmers, as well as a number of opportunities. Mushroom growers, composters, the recycling industry and scientists from many disciplines can expand their contributions by interacting with others who study the uses for and characteristics of SMS.”

Joint sponsors for the symposium include Penn State University, the American Mushroom Institute and the International Society for Mushroom Science. The symposium will be held at the Best Western Concordville Hotel at Route 1 and Route 322 in Concordville, in the heart of southern Chester County, the largest mushroom producing county in the United States.

More information and registration forms are available at the “Nature and Uses for Spent Mushroom Substrate” webpage or by calling 202-842-4344.

7/14/2006