Grow Your Own Gourmet Mushrooms at Hands-On Shiitake Workshop in Lansing

LANSING, IA — A hands-on Shiitake Mushroom Workshop will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Iowisota, Northeast Iowa's nature-themed retreat and education center, established in 2024. This workshop will offer participants the opportunity to learn the art and science of mushroom cultivation—and leave with their own inoculated shiitake log. Designed for beginners and curious growers alike, this interactive workshop will guide participants through the biology of mushrooms and practical methods for cultivating shiitake at home. Attendees will start indoors with an introduction to mushroom growing techniques, then head outdoors to get hands-on experience drilling logs, inserting shiitake spawn, and sealing them with wax. "All supplies are provided, and each participant will take home a ready-to-grow shiitake log," explains Linda Haugen, Iowisota's proprietor. "It's a fun, practical way to learn a new skill—and yes, eventually eat the results." The workshop is led by a trio of experienced guides: Mitch Gilbert, consulting forester and seasoned shiitake cultivatorJanet Erdman, woodland manager and educator with the Minnesota Women's Woodland NetworkLinda Haugen, co-owner of Iowisota and retired U.S. Forest Service pathologist with over 30 years of experienceTogether, they bring decades of hands-on knowledge in forestry, land stewardship, and mushroom cultivation. The workshop will be held at Iowisota, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, Iowa, located between Lansing and New Albin. The morning session will include plenty of time for questions, discussion, and optional insights into growing other varieties such as native oyster mushrooms. Event Details: Date & Time: Saturday, April 11, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – NoonLocation: Iowisota, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, IACost: $60 per person (includes all materials)Bonus Options: Light charcuterie lunch (by donation) and guided afternoon hike.Capacity: Limited to 12 participantsRegistration: RSVP required at www.iowisota.comParticipants are encouraged to dress casually and be prepared for outdoor activity and light use of hand tools. Overnight accommodations at Iowisota are also available. For more information or to register, details are available at www.iowisota.com. Contact: Linda Haugen, 651-485-2311, iowisota@gmail.com