Ancient Underlands: Calderdale's ecology and grassland fungi

In this closing event for the Ancient Underlands project, come along to hear local fungi expert Steve Hindle talk about Calderdale's ecology, its precious ancient grassland habitat and the mycelial fungi species that live in it. These fungi - waxcaps, corals and clubs, earthtongues and pinkgills - are indicator species for ancient grassland habitat, over 97% of which has been lost in the UK in the last century. These Calderdale grasslands have great botanical diversity despite initially looking unremarkable, and some of the fungi species they host are globally endangered. Surveys undertaken in the last 3 years by National Trust Hardcastle Crags have demonstrated that Calderdale is a hotspot for these species due to its topography, climate and farming heritage. In his work, Steve has discovered fungi species that are new to science and even a new genera. This is a fascinating but underknown feature of the local landscape, so there will be plenty of time for Q&A.

The Ancient Underlands project, supported by CFFC and Culturedale, has sought to increase awareness of this amazing local heritage through a series of group exhibitions, fungi identification walks and creative workshops. This is the final event in the project.

Doors and bar open 6pm - see the exhibition and meet some of the artists behind it
Talk 7 - 8pm
Q&A 8 - 8.30 
End 8.30pm