Mission, Vision, Values and Goals Statement
The Alberta Mycological Society … spreading fungal knowledge…
Mission Statement: “The Alberta Mycological Society is dedicated to the responsible, sustainable, and ecologically sound study and appreciation of fungi in Alberta and western Canada, with a commitment to scientific and educational activities, conservation of biodiversity and natural habitats, and fostering fellowship through continuous learning.”
Vision Statement: “Our vision is to be a leading network in advancing the knowledge and conservation of fungi, fostering a deep appreciation for their ecological importance, and promoting responsible practices for the betterment of our environment and society.”
Values:
- Scientific Rigor: We uphold the highest standards of scientific inquiry, promoting evidence-based research and fostering a culture of curiosity and exploration.
- Environmental Stewardship: We are committed to the responsible stewardship of our natural environment, recognizing the critical role fungi play in ecosystem health and sustainability.
- Education and Outreach: We value the importance of education and outreach, striving to share knowledge and promote a deeper understanding of fungi among our members and the wider community.
- Conservation: We actively support the conservation of biodiversity and natural habitats, acknowledging the interconnectedness of all living organisms.
- Responsibility: We prioritize responsible practices in the collection, use, and consumption of mushrooms, ensuring safety and sustainability in all our interactions with fungi and nature.
- Collaboration: We believe in the power of collaboration and partnership, working together with like-minded individuals and organizations to achieve common goals.
- Continuous Learning: We embrace a culture of continuous learning, valuing fellowship and the exchange of ideas as essential components of our society.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity in all its forms and strive to create an accessible, inclusive and welcoming community for all individuals interested in mycology.
Goals:
- To continue to survey macrofungi across various locations in Alberta annually and to record these identified fungi in an ever-growing database; eventually identifying all macrofungi in Alberta with good knowledge of their distribution.
- To create and maintain a comprehensive collection of macrofungi within the Alberta Mycological Society Fungarium, facilitating further study and research by both our members and the broader scientific community.
- To provide ongoing opportunities for scientific exploration and educational engagement related to fungi, offering a platform for learning and discovery.
- To highlight the integral role of fungi in maintaining ecosystem health and support the conservation of biodiversity and protection of natural habitats.
- To encourage and facilitate responsible, sustainable collection, and to promote safe preparation and consumption practices.
- To champion responsible environmental stewardship practices, ensuring that our actions align with ecological responsibility.
- To cultivate a sense of fellowship among our members through a shared passion for mycology and continuous learning opportunities.
You can download a copy of the Mission Statement by clicking on the link below.