Highlands Biological Station
Research & Teaching Laboratory, Nature Center, Botanical Garden and Foundation
The Highlands Biological Station (HBS) is a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University consisting of academic research, teaching, and residential facilities as well as a natural history museum (Highlands Nature Center) and a 12-acre native plant botanical garden (Highlands Botanical Garden). The Highlands Biological Station is primarily University-supported, with additional funding provided by grants, program revenue, and the non-profit Highlands Biological Foundation, Inc. Our mission is:
To foster research and education focused on the rich natural heritage of the Highlands Plateau,
while preserving and celebrating the integrity of the “biological crown of the southern Appalachian Mountains.”
HBS realizes its mission of education and research broadly through (1) support of scientific research and graduate training, (2) an annual program of accredited field biology courses for undergraduate and graduate students (3)hosting visiting academic groups, and (4) a diverse outreach programming for regional K-12 schools and the local community.
HBF Kicks Off 5th Season of Book Club!
This fall, delve into the book The Nature Fix by Florence Williams with HBF’s virtual book club.
Institute for the Environment Blog
The IE students have started their own blog to chronicle their research progress. Click below to see it!
Environmental Data
Near-real time environmental streaming data is now available! Click below for more information.
Upcoming Events
Join HBS & HBF for our upcoming events! See our program offerings & dates by clicking below.
Highlands on the Half-Shell
Tickets are sold out for HBF’s annual oyster roast fundraiser. Click below to learn how to join our waitlist.
Contact Us
Our helpful staff is here to assist you with your visit, research, & support of the Highlands Biological Station. Find the best contact for your needs here.
Station Research
Research facilities at the Highlands Biological Station support a wide range of field & laboratory investigations. Explore the history of the facilities & history of research at the Highlands Biological Station.
Highlands Biological Station is a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University,
a unit of the University of North Carolina System.
Contact Us
For general inquiries please call 828.526.2602
265 North Sixth Street
Highlands, NC 28741