An enchanted secret of the Pacific Northwest

The pacific North has some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found anywhere on the planet. Between its expansive coastline to the vast rainforests are genuinely a naturalist’s ideal. There lies an enchanted secret of the Pacific Northwest. The picturesque mountains that gaze down at you like that of any older wiser ever present parent. Not to be overcome by the scenery. A very opulent urban area where the Olympic Games have been held and is world-renowned for its winter playground. Yes, you guessed it, Vancouver, British Columbia.

The license plates indicate what the locals think of their surrounding environment as it merely states, “Beautiful British Columbia.” They are so right, and why wouldn’t you exalt in the enchanting secrets and beauty that surrounds you. The climate is not one of bright arid sunshine. With the Ocean, the weather, albeit warmer than most parts of Canada, is very damp. You can forgive the area for having such a minor inconvenience. Many secrets are found right under your feet, a catalyst of the climate. If you take the time and nowhere to look, you can discover why the area has many enchanted secrets.

Is one mushroom, like the other?

“What do you call a mushroom at a bar that buys you a drink? A “Fungi” to be with!” Yes, we have all heard that one before. Yet, in the greater Vancouver and surrounding areas, this is no exaggeration. Here we found the psilocybin mushroom, commonly known as the “magic mushroom or ‘shroom” for the lazy persons amongst us. In all, there are more than 180 types of this mushroom worldwide. Many have varying levels of toxicity- as to how it relates to the psychotropic effect. Cultures around the world use them for health, religious ritual, recreation and of course, profit.

When the psilocybin or baeocystin is ingested, it is converted to psilocin, triggering the psychedelic effect. An altered state of perception that many have sought for generations and for various reasons. Before going into the forest and start grazing on any mushroom in the field, it is essential to remember that there are many species of the fungus family. Some can lead to paralysis or Death. Here it is vitally important that you identify the correct species. I can not stress this enough, if you are not 100 percent certain regarding the genus, DO NOT EAT THEM!

Feeling Blue?

In this section of the world, the hallucinogenic mushroom found here is the “Blueringer” (Psilocybin Stuntzii). Although relatively easy to identify, you should use caution nonetheless. If the mushroom bruises blue to an almost black colour and has a spore print that is dark brown to rusty brown, the odds are in your favour that you have found a cluster. You can find the “Blueringer” in soil rich with wood debris or around piles of wood chips, often found along roadsides, paths, gardens and newly planted lawn. So it would seem that they are everywhere and all you need to do is find them, easy right? Wrong, they are accessible during the very early morning, before the sun comes up on a dreary and wet day.

Find a pro. or someone knowledgeable.

Here it is best to have an expert with you. Someone that has scouted out the patches and understands the nuances associated with them. Often found in urban areas on private property surrounded by large fences and patrolled by dogs with an unsavoury disposition. To the homeowner, they are a nuisance on their lawn and often dig them up and toss them away as they ruin their lawn’s aesthetic. So trespassing, dogs, and harvesting an illegal substance, you may begin to see that although they are for the “picking.” A little determination and knowledge go a very long way.

Under the guide’s direction, we rise early and are dressed in black as to stay under cover of night. Here it is helpful to have seen a “Navy seals” movie or two to understand the silent hand directions. Although not necessary, a balaclava may come in handy, besides it is a mask in the covid-19 era. Driving a few houses from the potential “target,” it is crucial that there is a rendezvous point (RV) in the event of dogs or worse. Being fit and ready to scatter is paramount if the situation turns into something unexpected. We were on the first of many stops this night- the anticipation was high- no pun intended.

Nothing is easy

There is still a drizzle in the air, and the mist diffuses the moonlight. Slowly the rear gate opens, scissors in hand, carefully and silently stalk to your fungal friend. One person is the immediate lookout, while the third is ready in the vehicle should it be needed. The provocateur has captured the first of many stems and moves to the next field of psychedelic dreams. This first patch was a success, as were successive properties. While the misty morning succumbs to the new days’ sun. The last remnants of the “shrooms” start to shrink at nature’s calling. The homeowners now have begun to awake, as the first of many lights illuminate the indoors. The cowl of the night is no longer an ally. Wet and cold with the last patch in clear view.

With luck, the neighbours will not notice the car on a residential street that is outdated for its surroundings. It was no decision at all. Hesitantly and patiently, each individual takes their position, now opaque silhouetted against a golden sunshine background. The yard door opens, with a 120-decibel squeak, the heart rate begins to increase. Speed is as vital as stealthiness. Without any notice, the house’s door swings open widely as a German Shepherd surges from its slumber like a thoroughbred horse leaping from the starting gate of the Kentucky Derby. One last snip, the product is in hand.

Remember what we discussed.

 Always have an escape plan. The driver pulls into position while the lookout sprints in the opposite direction. The driver and the “snipper” are now driving down the street. At the same time, the madly barking dog claws at the squeaking gate. The homeowner, confused by the dog’s commotion, barely notices what is occurring at the front of his home. The R.V. point is just at the bottom of the slope in the West Vancouver subdivision. Waiting for our arrival by the 7-11, panting and fueled by adrenaline, the Ford Valiant pulls up. A sanctuary until our next encounter with the mushroom. Or will this be just another enchanted secret of the pacific northwest? 

More than what meets the eye

Beyond the “Beautiful British Columbia” moniker that adorns the automobiles in the region. Many in the area often refer to it as Lotus Land or even Vansterdam. Both are very appropriate under the circumstances. Underfoot, you barely notice the enchanted secrets of the area. The walk through a peaceful meadow brings harmony and delight. The backyard lawn looks manicured enough to lawn bowl as the owner enjoys a cup of tea. The fungal removal is unnoticed from a distance, yet we know what lies just below the soil, another enchanted secret of the Pacific Northwest.

Consequences?

Trespassing onto other people’s properties may have serious consequences associated with them. Are you prepared for them? Be sure that you are aware of these before you embark on such a quest. Understand what you are harvesting, and if you have any doubt, do not pick them- it could have a “grave” outcome. Be aware that in Canada, this is an illegal substance and is punishable by law. 

If you are considering a visit to British Columbia, be certain to enjoy all the region has to offer. From the highest peaks to whale watching on the Pacific Ocean, British Columbia has something for everyone and a great deal more. If the “great B.C. Mushroom hunt” is part of your plan, do as much research as possible, or if possible, find a guide. You will not acquire this person at the nearest tourist office, but they are out there. Ask around or try a partially derelict bar. It is just an enchanted “secret” for those outside the region.

Your safety is our priority.

As always, it is our privilege to help you with your next adventure.

Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE