Question
I live in Seattle, Wa and have a something that seems like a fungus coming up in my yard.  They are piles that appear to push up from the bottom and grow taller, that seem brain-like (or spaghetti like) in appearance coming up in my lawn. I have picked it off the lawn, it feels spongy and light in texture, but it keeps coming back.  I've read about baking soda application and will try that.  Have you ever seen or heard of this fungus?

Answer
Pamela:

I am confused about the black color.  This color usually comes late in the fungus/mushroom cycle, indicating death of the spore mechanism.

There are several possible fungi close to that description.  Inky caps will produce thread like stalks and turn black soon.  Massive growths like puffballs also turn black when releasing spores.  Stinkhorns have dark heads.

Not much to do about mushrooms but pick and mow.

If the growth is slimy and dark, it could be a slime mold, not a fungus.  These will not feel spongy, like a mushroom.

I have read of baking soda used for fungi, but it is not reported in agricultural literature.  Fungicides are not a lasting solution because of the extreme survival instinct of mushrooms.

Best to aerate the lawn, fertilize and water it when it is growing.  Favor the turf growth and mechanically remove the fungi.  Though you live in an area which grows mushrooms easily, they do not last long when they come.

Best wishes.