Highlands Biological Station

A Celebration of Place

Join us Saturday, September 13, 2025, for a special day celebrating George Masa, rare and unusual native plants, and the Highlands Botanical Gardens at Highlands Biological Station.

This free, public event will feature:

  • Hourly garden tours led by area experts
  • A rare and unusual native plant sale at the Nature Center

  • A special presentation honoring legendary photographer George Masa by Paul Bonesteel and Janet McCue

  • A book signing and reception with refreshments

Come explore, connect, and celebrate the beauty of the Southern Appalachians—all while supporting the future of the Highlands Botanical Gardens and the continued development of our South Gateway garden.

While this event is free and open to all, donations will be graciously accepted in support of the South Gateway initiative.

Schedule of Events
Saturday, September 13 | Highlands Biological Station Gardens & Amphitheater

Celebrate the gardens and local heritage with special programming at the Station.

2:00 – 4:30 PM
Garden Explorations & Native Plant Sale

  • Enjoy guided thematic walks, botanical demonstrations, and hands-on garden activities.

  • Native plant sale open at the Nature Center — browse and buy unique items throughout the afternoon.

5:00 – 6:30 PM
Main Event: A Celebration of Place

  • Janet McCue & Paul Bonesteel speaking on their book George Masa: A Life Reimagined

  • Featuring a Q&A session
    Talk held at the Amphitheater; rain location inside the Nature Center.

6:30 – 8:00 PM
Reception & Book Signing

  • Meet the speakers at a reception hosted behind the Nature Center.

  • Book signing with authors — sales and signing tables set up on the patio.

    Dr. Jim Costa
    Presenter
    Paul Bonsteel
    Presenter
    Janet McCue
    Presenter

    With Gratitude to Our Gardens & Grounds Committee

    We extend our sincere thanks to the Gardens and Grounds Committee for their vision, creativity, and thoughtful planning in organizing this year’s Botanical Gardens Benefit. Your dedication to the mission of the Highlands Biological Station—and the care you invest in the gardens we all cherish—is deeply appreciated.

    Special thanks to Bryding Adams, Lynda Anderson, Dr. Jim Costa, Ken Conover, Tara Henderson, Jason Love, Dr. Paul Manos, Jeremy Schewe, Liz Sargent and Kathy Mathews for the many ways you helped shape this event—from curating meaningful programming to ensuring our garden spaces continue to inspire, educate, and thrive.

    We are truly grateful for your continued stewardship and support.