Most importantly, do not disturb the mycelium. The mushroom should be cut at the base or gently rocked and twisted off at the base. Only those lacking in mushroom morals ever disturb the forest floor looking for newly sprouted morels. Furthermore, most conscientious pickers leave about one-third of the mushrooms when they get into a good mess of them, to allow the species to perpetuate itself. Shrooming is a fun way to find tasty timberland treats, but it is not something you should do without learning to identify them properly.
Morels are excellent drizzled with olive oil and garlic and grilled.
And 103 people were hospitalized for the same reason between 1989 and '99. Fortunately, the morel is fairly distinct, resembling only a few other fungi. It is found in spring, often under cottonwood trees, and it is edible and tasty, although some people are allergic to it. But don't take chances. To be safe, newcomers to the hobby should first go with others who know mushrooms.