Research
We study how mushrooms grow in New York City - specifically, which species thrive on the trees and organic materials most common here.
Our research begins in the lab at Biotech Without Borders, where we culture mushroom strains, produce spawn for workshops, and run small-scale tests on local tree species and other urban byproducts. From there, we move into the field to track real-world performance through test log inoculations in gardens and green spaces.
Workforce Development
We work alongside NYC arborists and city agencies to connect routine tree care with community mushroom cultivation.
By identifying suitable tree species during inspections and coordinating log harvesting during scheduled pruning, we help redirect usable wood from waste streams into inoculation and training programs. This approach aligns with NYC’s Urban Forest Agenda, which calls for transforming wood waste into a sustainable local resource.
Our work supports a growing ecosystem that gives NYC’s trees a second life through food production, education, and local stewardship
Workshops
We host hands-on mushroom cultivation workshops year-round, both in the lab and in community gardens across the city.
Our team supports a range of growing methods - from outdoor log inoculations, winecap woodchip beds, and oyster mushroom buckets to indoor cultivation systems. We also consult with organizations looking to incorporate mushroom cultivation into their spaces.
Check our Events page here for upcoming public workshops, or reach out if you’re interested in hosting one at your garden, school, or community space.
Log Inoculation Kit Program
Our Mushroom Log Inoculation Kit Program makes it easier for communities to host workshops across NYC.
Each kit includes the essential tools for log inoculation - drills, wax, daubers, hot plates, log stands, and more - and is housed at designated Kit Hubs throughout the city. Participating organizations can borrow kits to run workshops at their own sites.
Interested in using a kit or scheduling a log inoculation workshop? Get in touch here - we’re happy to help you get started.
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