The thread on the fire piston reminded me about this stuff. I've seen it commercially, however I have not been able to find it in the wild. Does this stuff grow in the NJ/NY/PA area? Does anyone have some good pictures of what it looks like out in the wild or any insight to help me find it?

Generally I use charred cotton/cloth, but I would like to give the fungus I try.

Also, does it have to be prepared in any particular way? I've heard some reports that it has to be well dried out, others say you can use it right after you pick it up.