Hi, I remember these puff-balls as growing on the ground and they had holes in the top of them and if you were to kick them smoke (or something that looks like smoke) would be released. These were in the fungi family--related to what some call toad stools. I remember getting a stick and poking at one when I was little and it grew out of the grown. Maybe there are other things that are similar I decided to write to our resident botonist---Carl to see what he thought it could be. This is what he told me: "Any way what you are referring to is the puff ball when it has matured to fruiting stage, that is when the spores have developed. that dust you see are the spores. I don't know the scientific name with out looking it up, fungi was not one of my specialties. but I will tell you this, when in the immature stage, white and solid the puff balls are delicious. I used to slice them and fry them in butter with onions and pour over a steak-----great! You just have to pick them at the right stage of development." "He (CARL) said it was alright to mention his name etc. He wanted me to pass this on and to let all the other NJM listers know I'm (CARL) is still in circulation. I've just decided to be quiet for awhile." Thought I would pass this on to everyone. I would check with Carl before any of you start eating these things. He has more guts than I have. Maybe everyone is talking about something else. Either way they sound yucky. Have a good night everyone!!! Love, Robin Stinson Sign up for Internet Service under $10 dollars a month, at http://isp.BlueLight.com