Summer Courses Taxonomy and Natural History of Southern Appalachian Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies
Summer 2027 · Field course · Animals
Taxonomy and Natural History of Southern Appalachian Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies
with Dr. Alexander Orfinger, Dalton State College & Dr. Kelly Murray-Stoker, Emory University
Registration opens January 8, 10 a.m. ET
The course
Explore the extraordinary diversity of aquatic insects inhabiting Southern Appalachian streams. Through field collection, laboratory identification, and hands-on study, students will investigate the taxonomy, ecology, and natural history of mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies while developing practical skills used in freshwater research and water-quality monitoring.
This course provides an intensive introduction to the natural history and taxonomy of three important aquatic insect orders: mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Plecoptera), and caddisflies (Trichoptera), collectively known as EPT.
Students will investigate the systematics, ecology, behavior, and adaptations of larval and adult EPT, with particular emphasis on their importance in ecological research, biological monitoring of water quality, and sport fishing.
Field excursions to mountain streams will introduce students to a variety of aquatic habitats and collection methods. Laboratory sessions will focus on identifying EPT larvae to genus and adults to family using morphological characteristics, identification literature, and microscopy.
Throughout the course, participants will develop and curate their own scientific specimen collections while gaining experience in freshwater biodiversity assessment and aquatic insect identification.
The weeks
- Week One
- Monday — Introduction & Stream Ecology: Course orientation and introduction to freshwater habitats, stream ecology, and aquatic insect collection methods. Afternoon field excursion to East Fork Overflow Creek.
- Tuesday — Aquatic Insect Morphology: Explore insect anatomy, adaptations to freshwater environments, and the major orders of aquatic insects. Afternoon laboratory work identifying larval EPT.
- Wednesday — Mayfly Natural History: Morning field collection along the Chattooga River, followed by lectures on mayfly evolution, natural history, and family-level identification.
- Thursday — Mayfly Identification: In-depth study of southeastern mayfly genera and adult families, with laboratory identification practice.
- Friday — Stonefly Natural History: Morning collection at Whitewater River, followed by lectures and laboratory work exploring stonefly evolution, morphology, and identification.
- Saturday — Laboratory Identification: Continued identification of EPT larvae and adults, followed by optional independent specimen collection and laboratory work.
- Sunday — Independent Study: Personal time, with laboratory and field equipment available for optional collection and identification activities.
- Week Two
- Monday — Stream Diversity & Caddisflies: Field collections in East Fork Chattooga River and a small headwater stream, followed by an introduction to caddisfly evolution and natural history.
- Tuesday — Caddisfly Identification: Lectures and laboratory work identifying caddisfly families and southeastern genera.
- Wednesday — Advanced Identification: Continued examination and identification of caddisfly larvae and adults, emphasizing diagnostic morphological characteristics.
- Thursday — Biological Monitoring & Water Quality: Introduction to Rapid Bioassessment Protocols and EPT indices used to monitor stream pollution. Discussion, possible field application, and additional laboratory work.
- Friday — Final Assessment & Collection Submission: Written examination, practical identification assessment, and submission of curated specimen collections.
- Additional field experience: An evening light-trapping session to observe and collect adult EPT will be scheduled when weather conditions are suitable.
The first day starts at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 21, in Teaching Lab (Room 117).
Download the syllabus (PDF, 116 KB)
Your instructors
Dr. Alexander Orfinger
Assistant Professor of Biology, Dalton State College
Dr. Orfinger is currently an Assistant Professor of Biology at Dalton State College in Georgia, USA. His research largely centers on caddisfly (Trichoptera) systematics, though he has broad interests in natural history, taxonomy, ecology, evolutionary biology, and invasion biology of a wide range of taxa, but especially aquatic insects.
Dr. Kelly Murray-Stoker
Oxford College of Emory University, Assistant Professor of Biology
Dr. Kelly Murray-Stoker is an assistant professor of Biology at Oxford College of Emory University. She received a B.S. in Ecology and a B.S.E.S. in Entomology from the University of Georgia. She also received an M.S. in Entomology from the University of Georgia, and she received a PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Toronto. Her research focuses on community ecology of freshwater habitats and biodiversity patterns of aquatic insects, especially caddisflies (Trichoptera).
Dr. John Morse
Clemson University, Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Professor Emeritus
My principal focus is on aquatic insect taxonomic and functional diversity and their role in assessing ecological conditions in streams, with special emphasis on regional and world caddisfly (Trichoptera) systematics/taxonomy and biogeography. I have served on the faculty of Clemson University since 1974 in various teaching, research, outreach, and collection management roles (Clemson University Arthropod Collection), taught regularly at Highlands Biological Station since 1989, and provided courses and workshops in several other venues in the USA, and elsewhere globally, especially in Asia. My students and I conduct research on the use of macroinvertebrates for assessments of water quality in streams of the Southern Appalachian Mountains and their environs.
Who it's for
This course is designed for students interested in aquatic entomology, freshwater ecology, taxonomy, biodiversity research, and biological water-quality monitoring.
Participants should have previous training in zoology, although prior coursework in entomology is not required.
Students will develop practical skills in field collection, microscopy, taxonomic identification, and scientific specimen preservation. Participants taking the course for academic credit will be evaluated through written and practical examinations and an identified specimen collection.
What to bring
Required textbooks:
An Introduction to the Aquatic Insects of North America, Fifth Edition (2019), edited by Merritt, Cummins, and Berg.
Larvae of the Southeastern USA Mayfly, Stonefly, and Caddisfly Species (2017), edited by Morse, McCafferty, Stark, and Jacobus.
Personal field and laboratory equipment:
Waders or sturdy wading shoes suitable for rocky mountain streams.
Sturdy, fine-point collecting forceps for fieldwork.
Two pairs of very fine-point laboratory forceps for specimen identification.
Fine-point, waterproof or indelible-ink pen for specimen labels.
Scissors for preparing specimen labels.
Optional specimen vials for students wishing to retain most of their collections.
Any additional collecting or identification tools you regularly use.
Costs, and help with them
| Course fee | $1,000 |
|---|---|
| Member institutionsStudents from member colleges and universities pay this rate. | $800 |
| On-campus housingOptional. Add it when you register, $600 for 2 weeks. | $300 a week |
| Academic credit feeOptional. The amount depends on the university and how you enroll. | $25 to $55 |
Highlands Biological Station Scholarship
Open to students in any course taking that course for academic credit.
Up to $300. For students taking the course for academic credit.
Apply when you register.
Questions, answered
Before you register
Who can take courses at the Highlands Biological Station?
Our accredited summer field courses are open to undergraduate and graduate students, professionals, and anyone with a strong interest in natural history, field biology, or environmental science. Many participants attend for academic credit, while others come for professional development or personal enrichment.
Do I need prior experience or specific coursework to enroll?
Some courses recommend or require certain prerequisites, while others are open to all backgrounds. Check the individual course descriptions for details. If you’re unsure whether a course fits your background, feel free to reach out to our staff. We’re happy to help you find the right fit.
How do I choose the right course for my goals?
Consider your academic or professional interests, field experience, and schedule. Review each course description carefully to see which aligns best with your focus area. You can also contact us directly for guidance if you’d like help deciding.
When and how can I register for a course?
Registration opens in early January. Choose your course on this page and complete the online registration form. Register early to secure your spot. Registration closes three weeks before each course begins or when the course fills.
When a course is full you can join its waitlist at no cost. If a seat opens we email you right away and hold it while you complete your registration.
Each course must reach a minimum number of students to run; if a course is canceled by HBS due to low enrollment, you’ll receive a full refund. Once you have registered and paid, we’ll email you a confirmation and next steps.
Academic credit and financial aid
Can I receive academic credit for my course?
Yes. You must request academic credit at the time of registration; requests can’t be made retroactively.
- UNC–Chapel Hill: Undergraduate students can earn credit for one- or two-week courses.
- Western Carolina University: Undergraduate and graduate students can earn credit for one- or two-week courses.
- Once you have received confirmation of your registration, please send a copy of your unofficial transcript to svickery@wcu.edu.
- One-week courses earn 2 credit hours; two-week courses earn 4 credit hours.
After registration, you’ll receive instructions for completing the credit process. On transcripts, courses appear as:
- UNC–CH: BIOL 459 Field Biology
- WCU: BIOL 493/593 Special Topics (includes the course’s specific title)
Does HBS offer financial assistance or scholarships?
Yes! Limited financial assistance is available for students taking courses for credit. Awards are made on a first-come, first-served basis and do not cover the full cost of the course.
To apply, register for your course, then use the scholarship link on your registration page. You will be asked for:
- Statement of Need (about 250 words describing your financial situation and goals)
- Letter of Recommendation from a faculty member or advisor. Give us their email and we send them a link.
- Unofficial Transcript
Are there other scholarships available?
Yes. Students may also apply for:
- John E. Fairey / Southern Appalachian Botanical Society Biological Field Station Scholarship (for botany-focused courses; deadline April 25)
- Highlands Plateau Audubon Society Scholarship (for Biology and Conservation of Birds; covers $1,000 of fees; rolling deadline)
Payments and refunds
How do I pay for my course, and what is the refund policy if I need to cancel?
You pay for your course and housing (if requested) at the time of registration. If you receive a scholarship or financial assistance, that amount will be refunded to you once your award is processed.
Refund policy
- Academic credit fees are non-refundable.
- Housing fees are fully refundable unless you cancel within 30 days of the course start date.
- Course tuition:
- Cancel 45 or more days before the start: full refund minus a $75 fee
- Cancel 30 to 45 days before the start: full refund minus a $150 fee
- Cancel less than 30 days before the start: no refund
Travel and preparation
What should I know about traveling to Highlands?
Plan ahead. Highlands is a remote mountain town with limited transportation options. Visit our Getting Here page for driving directions and travel details.
- Cell service can be unreliable on mountain roads, so download or print directions before you come.
- Highlands has a grocery store and restaurants, but prices are higher than surrounding areas; consider shopping before you arrive.
- Parking is available on campus near housing areas.
What is the weather like in Highlands during the summer?
Highlands sits at 4,100 feet, so even summer days are cool compared to most of the Southeast. Expect daytime highs in the 70s °F and cool, misty evenings in the 50s °F. Afternoon rain showers are common, so pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy footwear.
What should I bring for my course?
You’ll receive a packing list before arrival, but essentials typically include:
- Field gear (boots, rain jacket, hat, insect repellent)
- Notebook and writing supplies
- Reusable water bottle and lunch container
- Bedding and towels (if staying on campus)
- Flashlight or headlamp for night work
- Personal items and medications
On-campus living
What are the housing options like?
Our on-site housing is dormitory-style: simple, comfortable, and designed for field station living.
- Expect to share a room with 2–3 students.
- Common areas are cleaned twice weekly; bedrooms are self-maintained.
- A full kitchen is available for meal prep (no meal plan provided).
- Alcohol is allowed only inside residences or dining spaces; underage drinking is prohibited.
- Pets are not permitted (service animals only).
Housing assignments are sent about two weeks before your course begins, along with a packing list and access codes. Check-in starts Sunday at 1 PM before your course; check-out is by noon Saturday after it ends.
What amenities are available?
- Free Wi-Fi in main buildings (limited in some residences)
- On-site laundry facilities
- Free parking near housing
- Access to the Highlands Botanical Gardens and Nature Center
Can I arrive early or stay late?
Check-in and checkout times are fixed due to housing turnover, but you can contact us in advance if you need to discuss special arrangements.
How do I receive mail or packages while at HBS?
Use this address format:
Highlands Biological Station
Attn: [Your Name]
265 N. 6th Street
Highlands, NC 28741
Mail is checked Monday–Friday. We’ll notify you by email when something arrives. If mail comes after you’ve left, you’ll be responsible for return postage.
Campus life and community
What’s a typical day like during a course?
Expect immersive, hands-on learning. Days often begin early and include a mix of lectures, lab work, and field excursions. Classes frequently extend into the evening for night surveys or data collection, followed by independent study or group discussions.
Can I visit the Botanical Gardens or Nature Center during my stay?
Absolutely! Students are encouraged to explore the Highlands Botanical Gardens and visit the Nature Center. Both are just steps from campus and open daily.
Are restaurants or shops nearby?
Yes. Downtown Highlands is a short walk or drive from campus and offers restaurants, cafés, and small shops. Keep in mind that hours can vary seasonally, especially in winter.
After your course
How do I request a transcript or certificate?
If you earned academic credit, transcripts are available through UNC–Chapel Hill or Western Carolina University depending on your registration. For non-credit participants, HBS can issue a certificate of completion upon request.
How can I stay involved with HBS after my course?
Stay connected! Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter, or reach out to us directly at hbs@wcu.edu
Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
We’re happy to help! Email us anytime at hbs@wcu.edu or call (828) 526-2602.
Still have a question?
Call us at 828-526-2602 or write to svickery@wcu.edu.