fungi freights
& community
mycology
DETROIT, MI
At Fungi Freights, we’re all about community, sustainability, and empowerment—using the magic of fungi to inspire growth and transformation. Through mycology-based citizen science and natural restoration practices, we provide hands-on education that connects people to the power of mushrooms. Our sustainable cultivation programs equip individuals with the skills to enhance food security, environmental resilience, and economic opportunity, creating a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
Background
B.S Environmental Science & Microbiology
2010 - 2016
Soil Scientist
2018 – 2022
Mycologist
2015 – present
Consultant for Hire
2018 – Present
Tess Burzynski is the founder of Fungi Freights, a research scientist, and a dedicated mycologist exploring the potential of mycoremediation in Detroit. Her studies have deepened her understanding of the vital role fungi play in the environment—their resilience, benefits, and remarkable ability to transform ecosystems. Through Fungi Freights, she strives to educate and engage Detroit and its surrounding communities on the profound impact of fungi.
Her passion for fungi extends far beyond environmental science. She is the co-founder of Novel, a psilocybin-focused mental health company, a team member at Mycota, a fungal DNA laboratory, and an active member of the North American Mycological Association. As a psychonaut and psilocybin activist, Tess has been a voice for mushrooms for more than half her life. She believes fungi hold the key to unlocking love, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the multidimensional self.
projects
community
community growth thrives through education, compassion, and a shared commitment to positive change. At Fungi Freights, we empower communities by teaching sustainable mushroom cultivation for food security, medicinal use, and economic resilience. Our impact extends from local neighborhoods to global initiatives, reaching as far as Nepal, as we work to create a more sustainable and connected world through the power of fungi.
environment
fungi are essential to the environment, enriching soil health and fostering ecosystem resilience. At Fungi Freights, we demonstrate the power of mycorrhizal fungi in strengthening soil vitality while conducting innovative mycoremediation studies. Through hands-on education and research, we showcase how fungi can restore balance, enhance sustainability, and heal the land
mental health
we are passionate advocates for the intersection of psilocybin and mental health, dedicated to raising awareness about its therapeutic potential. Through education, community engagement, and citizen science, we help break the stigma surrounding psilocybin while supporting research on its benefits for mental well-being.
imaginarium
the Imaginarium is a creative, experimental project that explores the limitless potential of fungi by growing mushrooms out of unconventional objects. This initiative challenges traditional cultivation methods, using materials like old books, fabric, recycled furniture, and even sculptures as substrates for fungal growth. This highlights the adaptability of fungi while inspiring curiosity and reimagining waste as a resource.
in the media
lets collab!
“Tess is awesome in her extensive knowledge of mycology and often offers interesting workshops in everything from mushroom cultivation to using mushrooms to make dyes.”
I believe fungi are the unsung heroes of our planet—nature’s healers and connectors. By embracing the power of fungi and coming together as a community, we can create a more sustainable, harmonious world.