Interest in small-scale mushroom production is growing in the north Willamette Valley. Many new and aspiring mushroom farmers are seeking peer support, skills training and collaborative marketing opportunities to help them navigate the complexities of mushroom cultivation.
One of the biggest challenges growers face is finding markets for their mushrooms in the Portland area.
"When I first entered this industry, I had no contacts, no mentors and limited resources. The network provided everything I needed to jumpstart my business.”
In summer 2022, Em Jones, a student intern in the Oregon State University Extension Service Internship Program, launched a regional network to help meet this need. With guidance from Heidi Noordijk, OSU Extension Metro Small Farms coordinator, Jones identified mushroom growers across the Portland metro area by connecting through social media, farmers markets and word-of-mouth.
Jones also developed and distributed a survey to assess growers’ needs and interest in forming a community. The result was the creation of the Pacific Northwest Mushroom Producers Network — a collaborative group for small-scale mushroom farmers to share knowledge, resources and market strategies.
Since its launch, the network has hosted 10 virtual meetings via Zoom, some with guest speakers and others in conjunction with on-farm tours. Topics have included marketing, cooperative development and pursuing collaborative grant opportunities.
These events reflect the network’s focus on building a supportive, practical space for mushroom growers to connect and overcome shared challenges. As of late 2023, 62 individuals were part of the network’s mailing list.
One grower shared, “The network has been instrumental in my journey as a mushroom farmer. When I first entered this industry, I had no contacts, no mentors and limited resources. The network provided everything I needed to jumpstart my business.”
Another Portland-based farmer added, “It’s been great to share strains and resources with other mushroom growers. I’ve expanded my library and my opportunity to grow more mushroom species. It feels good to be in community with so many other mushroom enthusiasts.”
In addition to the network meetings, members have participated in workshops such as “Mushroom Cultivation: Beginner Basics,” held during Small Farm School at Clackamas Community College in Oregon City in 2022 and 2023. These sessions introduced 60 participants to the fundamentals of mushroom production.
Through connections, education and peer learning, the Pacific Northwest Mushroom Producers Network is helping build a stronger, more collaborative future for the region’s small-scale mushroom growers.
