I, the undersigned (“Participant”), voluntarily choose to participate in activities organized, sponsored, or conducted by the Mid-Hudson Mycological Association (MHMA), a nonprofit organization organized under the laws of the State of New York. Such activities may include, but are not limited to, mushroom identification field trips, foraging excursions, educational meetings, workshops, and related dining or tasting events (collectively, “Activities”).

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I understand and acknowledge that my participation in MHMA Activities is entirely voluntary. I further understand that my relationship with MHMA is limited to that of a participant in voluntary, educational, or recreational Activities. MHMA does not provide employment benefits, insurance coverage, or compensation of any kind related to my participation.

Assumption of Risk
I understand that participation in MHMA Activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, slips or falls, serious physical injury, illness, disability, death, and damage to or loss of personal property. I further understand that contact with or consumption of wild mushrooms, fungi, or other foraged plant life carries the risk of allergic reactions, poisoning, or other adverse health effects, which may range from mild illness to fatal outcomes. I knowingly and voluntarily assume all such risks.

Waiver and Release of Liability

In consideration for being permitted to participate in MHMA Activities, I hereby release, waive, and forever discharge MHMA and its directors, officers, members, volunteers, agents, successors, and assigns from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, or liability of any kind, whether in law or equity, arising out of or related to my participation in the Activities.

This release includes, but is not limited to, claims for personal injury, illness, allergic reaction, poisoning, death, or property damage, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by New York law.

Insurance and Medical Responsibility​

I understand that MHMA does not assume responsibility for providing medical, health, disability, or accident insurance coverage for Participants. I am solely responsible for maintaining my own insurance coverage and for any medical or related expenses incurred as a result of my participation. I expressly waive any claim for compensation or reimbursement from MHMA beyond what may be voluntarily offered.

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Medical Treatment

I authorize MHMA to obtain or provide emergency first aid or medical assistance if deemed reasonably necessary during my participation. I hereby release and discharge MHMA from any and all claims arising from the provision or failure to provide such emergency care or medical treatment.

Photographic Release
I grant MHMA permission to photograph, record, or otherwise capture my likeness or voice during Activities and to use such materials for educational, promotional, or archival purposes without compensation. If I do not want a recording or photograph of me to be used publicly, it is my responsibility to inform event leaders at the beginning of an event that I attend.

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Hold Harmless and Indemnification

I agree to hold harmless and indemnify MHMA, its officers, members, and volunteers from any and all claims, actions, damages, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from my participation in MHMA Activities or from my actions during such Activities.

Governing Law and Severability

This Release and Waiver is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the laws of the State of New York and shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with New York law. If any provision is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

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Acknowledgment and Voluntary Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and fully understand this Release and Waiver of Liability, that I understand the risks involved, and that I voluntarily agree to be bound by its terms.

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Minor Participants

If I am bringing a minor child or other dependent under my care to any MHMA Activity, I represent that I am the parent or legal guardian of that minor and have full authority to execute this Release on their behalf to the extent permitted by law.

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I agree to assume full responsibility for the safety, supervision, and well-being of any minor in my care throughout the duration of any MHMA Activity. I acknowledge that the risks described in Section 2 of this Release apply equally to any minor participant under my supervision.

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On behalf of myself and any minor child or dependent in my care, I release, waive, and forever discharge MHMA and its directors, officers, members, volunteers, agents, successors, and assigns from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, or liability of any kind arising out of or related to the minor's participation in MHMA Activities, to the fullest extent permitted by New York law.

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I understand that under New York law, a parent or guardian's ability to waive a minor child's future claims on the child's behalf may be limited, and that a minor may retain the right to bring claims upon reaching the age of majority. I nonetheless execute this Release voluntarily and in good faith on behalf of any minor in my care, and agree to indemnify and hold harmless MHMA from any claim brought by or on behalf of such minor arising from their participation in MHMA Activities.