Highlands Biological Station

Tree Texture Investigation (Drop-In Station)
2026-03-14 10:00 - 15:30, 2026-03-27 10:00 - 15:30, 2026-03-28 10:00 - 15:30 (America/Halifax) | Highlands Nature Center, 930 Horse Cove Rd., Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Join us at the Nature Center to make your very own Bark Book! Enjoy a stroll through the forest to create unique texture impressions of different tree bark patterns, and learn some tips and tricks to help you identify your findings. Making your own Bark Book is a great way to explore nature, learn about trees, and create art!
March 13-14 & 27-28
FREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm
Program provided by:

The Lost (and Found!) Shortia: HBS Oconee Bells 2026!
2026-03-21 10:00 - 2026-03-22 16:00 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Celebrate one of the Southern Appalachians’ most beloved and enigmatic wildflowers during this special two-day Oconee Bells program led by Dr. Jim Costa and Dr. Cynthia Woodsong. The rare Oconee Bells (Shortia galacifolia) blooms for only a brief window each March, making its appearance a highly anticipated event for naturalists, botanists, and plant enthusiasts alike. Native to the Jocassee Gorges region and recognized as the iconic wildflower of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, this remarkable species carries with it a fascinating story of discovery, mystery, and scientific perseverance.
This year’s program offers a rich, immersive experience that blends natural history, botanical storytelling, artistic interpretation, and field exploration. Participants are welcome to attend one or both days.
Saturday, March 21 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The program begins at Highlands Biological Station with a lively and engaging presentation by Dr. Jim Costa, Executive Director of Highlands Biological Station, professor, historian of science, and lifelong “plant nerd.” Dr. Costa will recount the extraordinary tale of Shortia galacifolia — a story often referred to as the saga of the “lost (and found!) Shortia.” This botanical mystery traces back to 18th-century explorations by French Royal Botanist André Michaux, whose travels through the Southern Appalachians sparked centuries of intrigue within the scientific community. Through a blend of history, science, and storytelling, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for both the plant and the remarkable human curiosity that shaped its legacy.
Following the talk, participants will join Dr. Cynthia Woodsong of Woodsong Botanicals for a hands-on workshop in paper botanical art. Cynthia Woodsong is widely recognized for her extraordinary ability to recreate lifelike botanical specimens using paper. Under her guidance, participants will craft their own potted Oconee Bells, capturing the delicate beauty of this ephemeral bloom. All materials will be provided, and no prior artistic experience is required. This session offers a unique opportunity to engage creatively with botanical form while learning about plant structure and aesthetics.
Sunday, March 22 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
On Sunday, participants will venture into the native landscape of the Oconee Bells with a guided excursion to Devil’s Fork State Park on Lake Jocassee, located approximately one hour from Highlands. Transportation will be provided. The day begins with a leisurely walk along the renowned Oconee Bells Nature Trail, where participants will observe blooming plants in their natural habitat and learn about the ecological conditions that support this rare species.
The experience continues with a scenic three-hour pontoon boat excursion in partnership with Jocassee Lake Tours. This unique perspective allows participants to access remote and lesser-known areas of Lake Jocassee, where Oconee Bells often thrive along pristine shorelines and sheltered coves. Along the way, participants will enjoy breathtaking views of hidden waterfalls, rugged landscapes, and early-season flora. The trip also offers opportunities to learn about the natural and cultural history of Lake Jocassee while keeping watch for wildlife.
Together, these two days provide an exceptional opportunity to connect botanical science, regional history, artistic expression, and direct field observation. Whether you are a dedicated plant enthusiast, a casual nature lover, or simply curious about one of the region’s most storied wildflowers, this program offers a memorable and enriching experience centered on one of spring’s most fleeting wonders.
Participants may register for one or both days. Space is limited.

ecoEXPLORE Plant Scavenger Hunt (Drop-In Station)
2026-03-27 10:00 - 15:30, 2026-03-28 10:00 - 15:30 | Highlands Nature Center, 930 Horse Cove Rd., Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Spring is right around the corner, and we’re already seeing some fresh pops of green! We will kick off the ecoEXPLORE Botany Field Season with a plant scavenger hunt along the Botanical Garden trails and the Boardwalk. Participants will work to complete a plant identification challenge while gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world around them.
ecoEXPLORE is a community science program created by the North Carolina Arboretum, where children of all ages can learn to identify wildlife around them, help scientists track wildlife activity, and earn fun badges and prizes all at once! To learn more, please visit https://www.ecoexplore.net/.
March 13-14 & 27-28
FREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm
Program provided by:

Mindful Birding
2026-05-01 09:00 - 15:30 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Mindful Birding
Friday, May 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: Topher Stephens
Mindful Birding is a practice of heightening our awareness and opening our senses—and our hearts—to the beauty of the natural world. Unlike traditional bird walks where identifying and listing species is the primary goal, this workshop invites participants to slow down and experience birds in a more attentive and reflective way.
Throughout the day, we will move slowly through the landscape, allowing ourselves the rare opportunity to observe individual birds with patience and curiosity. While we will certainly help participants spot birds and notice some of their distinctive characteristics, our focus will be on presence, observation, and connection rather than checklists.
Using birds as our guides, participants will explore ways to deepen their relationship with the living landscape while also becoming more aware of their own internal experiences of awe, joy, and wonder in nature. Through quiet observation, guided reflection, and gentle discussion, this workshop creates space to engage with birds—and the environment around us—in a more mindful and meaningful way.
Mindful Birding is designed to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. No experience with birding or mindfulness practices is necessary. In fact, we will all be cultivating a “beginner’s mind,” approaching the natural world with openness, curiosity, and fresh attention.
This workshop offers a unique opportunity to slow down, tune in, and rediscover the simple yet profound experience of being present in nature.

Please Bring
• Binoculars if you have them (loaner pairs will be available if needed)
• A lightweight Crazy Creek–style camp chair or small foam pad for sitting
• Weather-appropriate layers and comfortable outdoor footwear

Grasses of the Southern Appalachians
2026-05-04 - 2026-05-08 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
2 Credit Hours
May 4–8, 2026
Instructor: Dr. Paul McKenzie, Retired Endangered Species Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Volunteer and Independent Contractor
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the identification, morphology, and ecology of grasses native to the Southern Appalachian region. Through a combination of lectures, lab-based keying exercises, and immersive field excursions, students will develop the skills necessary to recognize and differentiate grasses from related plant groups such as sedges and rushes.
Classroom sessions will include detailed instruction on floral morphology, focusing on the structure and variation of grass flowers. Students will examine illustrative photographs and diagrams, review terminology essential to grass identification, and receive a full-color copy of the instructor’s presentation materials. Laboratory components will emphasize hands-on identification techniques using multiple dichotomous keys and a curated collection of over 200 pressed grass specimens housed at the Highlands Biological Station Herbarium.
Field trips to local habitats will provide practical experience observing grasses in diverse landscapes and ecological settings. During past field excursions to the Buck Creek Barrens in Clay County, participants have encountered multiple timber rattlesnakes—students should therefore come prepared with appropriate field attire and exercise caution in these environments. Depending on the timing of the course, heavy grass pollen may also be present; students with allergies are encouraged to bring suitable sinus medication.
Students enrolling for academic credit will complete an open-book final examination designed to reinforce key identification skills and botanical concepts.

Introduction to the Vascular Flora of the Blue Ridge
2026-05-18 - 2026-05-22 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
COURSE FULL – Join the waitlist via the link provided below
2 Credit Hours
May 18–22, 2026
Instructor: Dr. Paul Manos, Duke University
Cost: $500.00
This course welcomes students, professional biologists, and plant enthusiasts alike. Centered on the rich botanical diversity of the Highlands Plateau, it provides both an introduction and a refresher on studying vascular plant diversity.
Through a community-based lens, participants will explore the flora of the Blue Ridge during field excursions and hands-on identification exercises. Course objectives include:
Understanding key distinguishing features among lycophytes, ferns, and seed plants.
Learning field characteristics of common and rare species and the habitats they occupy.
Developing confidence in using identification keys.
Gaining a clearer understanding of the ecology of major regional plant communities and the biogeography of their species.
This immersive field experience offers a strong foundation for anyone interested in the botanical richness of the Southern Appalachians.
Join the waitlist: https://wcu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_elgLT5HEInl8Uey

Identification and Conservation of Wetland Plants
2026-05-25 - 2026-05-29 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
2 Credit Hours
May 25–29, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Joey Shaw, UT-Chattanooga
This course is designed for anyone wishing to strengthen their skills in observing, collecting, identifying, and assessing the ecological “quality” of wetland plant species. Accurate identification is essential not only for understanding wetland integrity and ecological condition, but also for conducting professional wetland delineations.
Whether you are new to wetland flora or looking to sharpen existing skills, this course offers a supportive environment for learners at multiple levels. Students should have a basic understanding of botanical terminology and plant structures, but there is no expectation that everyone enters with the same experience. Participants may focus on different plant groups—woody species, graminoids, or others—collecting specimens that align with their individual interests.
Each day features a field excursion to a local wetland within roughly an hour of the Station. Students will collect plant specimens of interest, then return to the lab for hands-on identification work using dichotomous keys, online herbarium resources, and other reference materials. Together, we will use tools such as coefficients of conservatism to better understand the ecological integrity of the wetlands we explore.
While the range of wetland types will be limited to what is found regionally, the focus of the course is on building practical, adaptable identification skills. Throughout the week, Dr. Shaw will serve as a guide in interpreting key couplets, terminology, and diagnostic features. Students will also be encouraged to develop their own reference collections; the final portion of the course will be devoted to assembling and refining these materials.
A working draft of the instructor’s forthcoming Second Edition of the Guide to the Vascular Plants of Tennessee will serve as the primary key for species identification, and copies will be provided.

Biology of Southern Appalachian Salamanders
2026-05-25 - 2026-06-05 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
May 25 – June 5, 2026
Instructors: Kenneth H. Kozak, Ph.D. (University of Minnesota) & Joseph H. K. Pechmann, Ph.D. (Western Carolina University)
The Southern Appalachians are home to one of the richest and most ecologically significant salamander assemblages on Earth. This immersive field- and lab-based course introduces students to the extraordinary diversity, biology, and evolutionary history of these remarkable amphibians.
Through a blend of lectures, guided discussions, hands-on laboratory work, and targeted field excursions across multiple Appalachian mountain ranges, students will explore foundational and advanced concepts in evolutionary biology and ecology. Topics include reconstructing evolutionary histories, species concepts and delimitation, life-history variation, population and community dynamics, and the role of salamanders in forest ecosystems. Readings from primary literature will deepen understanding of current research and methodologies.
Students will gain experience identifying regional taxa, conducting field and laboratory analyses, and interpreting evolutionary and ecological data—while engaging directly with the landscapes that make the Southern Appalachians a global hotspot for salamander diversity.
Prerequisites: Introductory biology, ecology, or evolution, or permission of the instructors.

True Sedge Workshop: A Weeklong Dive into the Genus Carex
2026-06-01 - 2026-06-05 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
2 Credit Hours
June 1–5, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Joey Shaw, UT-Chattanooga
True sedges are famously challenging to identify. With numerous species often growing side by side in the same microhabitats, reduced and specialized floral structures, unique terminology, and diagnostic features that may rely on very small measurements—or even mature material—students of botany can easily feel overwhelmed. It is no surprise that sedges are among the plant groups learners struggle with most.
This course focuses on two primary goals:
Building fluency in sedge terminology and learning how to confidently apply and interpret that terminology when using identification keys.
Understanding the key characteristics that distinguish the many taxonomic sections of the genus Carex—the largest and most complex sedge genus—as well as how to separate Carex from other spring-flowering sedges.
Using herbarium specimens, newly collected material, and additional plant samples provided in class, we will assemble an in-room reference collection organized by genus and Carex section. This hands-on approach allows students to compare specimens directly, reinforcing both visual recognition and taxonomic concepts.
This workshop is designed to strengthen identification skills and build confidence in working with this large and intricate group of plants. For most participants, our focus will remain at the level of distinguishing Carex sections rather than resolving species-level identifications—though students wishing to work at the species level are welcome and encouraged to do so!

Botany Bootcamp
2026-06-01 09:00 - 16:00 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Botany Bootcamp
June 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Dr. Paul Manos, Duke University
Botany Bootcamp is an engaging, hands-on workshop designed to introduce participants to the remarkable diversity of plant life found on the Highlands Plateau. Hosted at the Highlands Biological Station, this immersive day blends short lectures with interactive activities to build a foundational understanding of botany in a relaxed and supportive learning environment.
Throughout the workshop, participants will explore key botanical concepts while examining the structure, form, and growth habits of common native plants found on the Station’s grounds. With guidance from Dr. Paul Manos, participants will learn how botanists observe plants, identify important structures, and recognize patterns that help distinguish different plant groups.
Activities may include:
• Examining plant structures and forms using hand lenses and microscopes
• Sketching flowers, leaves, and other plant features to sharpen observational skills
• Discussing plant adaptations and growth patterns
• Exploring native plants growing on the Highlands Biological Station campus
• Learning the basics of plant identification and botanical terminology
This workshop is designed for beginners and plant enthusiasts alike. No prior botanical experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to look closely at the plants around us.
Whether you are a nature lover, gardener, artist, educator, or simply interested in learning more about the plants of the Southern Appalachians, Botany Bootcamp offers a fun and accessible introduction to the world of botany.
Join us for a day of discovery as we magnify tiny plant details, practice careful observation, and deepen our appreciation for the incredible diversity of plants on the Highlands Plateau.

Please Bring
• Binoculars if you have them (loaner pairs will be available if needed)
• A lightweight Crazy Creek–style camp chair or small foam pad for sitting
• Weather-appropriate layers and comfortable outdoor footwear

Paper Botanicals – Fraser’s Magnolia
2026-06-04 09:00 - 15:30 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Paper Botanicals – Fraser’s Magnolia
June 4, 2026, 9:00AM – 3:30PM
Instructor: Cynthia Woodsong
Celebrate the beauty of one of the Southern Appalachians’ most distinctive trees in this hands-on botanical art workshop focused on Fraser’s Magnolia (Magnolia fraseri).
The workshop will begin with a short introduction to Fraser’s Magnolia led by Dr. James Costa, Executive Director of Highlands Biological Station. Participants will learn about the natural history, ecology, and identifying characteristics of this remarkable tree species.
Following the introduction, the group will take a short walk on the Highlands Biological Station grounds to observe Fraser’s Magnolia in its natural setting. Participants will receive a checklist of botanical features to look for as they examine the tree closely, encouraging careful observation of leaf shape, flower structure, and other identifying details.
After returning indoors, botanical artist Cynthia Woodsong will guide participants through the process of creating a detailed paper replica of a blooming Fraser’s Magnolia branch. Using carefully prepared materials and step-by-step instruction, participants will construct their own botanical sculpture while learning techniques used to create accurate plant replicas.
This workshop combines field observation, natural history, and artistic practice, offering a unique opportunity to study a native plant and then recreate it through craft.
Participants will leave with:
• A completed paper Fraser’s Magnolia branch
• A deeper understanding of the plant’s botanical features
• New skills in botanical paper craft and observation
All materials and tools will be provided, and no previous experience working with paper or botanical art is required.

About the Instructor
Cynthia Woodsong is a North Carolina Master Naturalist with a certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration from the North Carolina Botanical Garden at UNC Chapel Hill. Her work focuses on creating paper replicas of flowering plants native to the southeastern United States, rendered with careful botanical accuracy.
These paper plants may be displayed in clay pots or incorporated into botanical plates created in watercolor or colored pencil.
Cynthia’s work can be viewed at woodsongbotanicals.org and at the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Rock Outcrop and Cliff Ecology
2026-06-08 - 2026-06-12 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
2 Credit Hours
June 8–12, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Laura Boggess, Mars Hill University & Mr. Gary Kauffman, USFS (Emeritus)
Cliffs and rock outcrops are among the most striking and ecologically distinctive landscapes in the Southern Appalachians. These environments support rare, endemic, and specialized species shaped by extreme conditions and long-term geological processes—yet they remain understudied, in part due to their inaccessibility.
Highlands Biological Station lies within one of the most rugged and geologically diverse regions of the Appalachians, offering access to unique communities such as high-elevation granitic domes, rocky summits, cliffs, and montane red cedar woodlands.
In this weeklong, field-intensive course, we will explore the emerging field of cliff ecology and conservation. Most of our time will be spent outdoors, developing field skills, observing species assemblages, and examining how organisms interact with one another and with their physical environment. Through complementary lectures, readings, and discussions, we will consider the natural history of these ecosystems, the ways humans engage with them, and how we can shift our relationship toward stewardship and reciprocity.
By the end of the course, you will have built a strong foundation in cliff and outcrop ecology, connected with a community of like-minded peers, and deepened your relationship with the distinctive landscapes of the Southern Appalachians.

The Biology and Conservation of Birds
2026-06-15 - 2026-06-26 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
June 15–26, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Rob Bierregaard, Acadamy of Natural Sciences/Drexel University (Retired)
This two-week intensive course offers a comprehensive introduction to avian biology, behavior, and conservation, grounded in both field experience and laboratory study. Mornings are spent on field excursions where students will develop bird identification skills by sight and sound while observing and interpreting behavior—examining not just what birds are doing, but why they do it.
Afternoon sessions begin with lectures covering key themes in ornithology, including the evolutionary diversification of birds, avian communication through songs and displays, migration ecology, and contemporary conservation challenges. Students will then synthesize their morning field observations and engage in hands-on laboratory work using study specimens, skeletal materials, raptor migration datasets, and their own field-recorded audio.
By the end of the course, students will build strong identification skills, deepen their understanding of avian ecology and evolution, and gain practical experience with the tools and methods used in modern ornithological research.

Amphibian Diversity & Biogeography Workshop
2026-06-15 09:00 - 2026-06-16 17:00 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Amphibian Diversity & Biogeography Workshop
June 15–16, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily
Instructor: Patrick Brannon
The Southern Appalachian Mountains are home to one of the greatest concentrations of salamander diversity in the world. This two-day workshop introduces participants to the remarkable amphibian species of the region while exploring the ecological and biogeographical patterns that shape their distribution.
Through a combination of lectures, field exploration, and hands-on activities, participants will learn to identify frogs and salamanders, investigate their habitats, and examine the environmental factors that contribute to the extraordinary diversity found in these mountains.

Day One: Highlands Biological Station
The first day will take place at Highlands Biological Station and will focus on foundational knowledge and field observation.
Participants will:
• Learn to identify frog species by both sight and sound
• Explore the biology and life history of salamanders
• Discuss why the Southern Appalachians support such exceptional salamander diversity
• Search for stream and terrestrial salamanders on the Station grounds
• Investigate microhabitat use and local stream communities
Activities will include a frog lecture and call-identification lab, field searches for frogs and salamanders, and a hands-on stream communities lab examining habitat relationships.
Lunch: Participants should bring their own lunch.

Day Two: Standing Indian Campground Field Trip
On the second day, participants will travel to Standing Indian Campground, located west of Franklin near the Appalachian Trail. Transportation will be provided via an HBS van.
During this field-based exploration, participants will examine the ecological gradients and microhabitats that influence amphibian distributions across the landscape.
Activities may include:
• Studying coarse woody debris and its role in salamander habitat and decomposition processes
• Examining microhabitats and distributional gradients of terrestrial salamanders
• Observing differences in species assemblages across the landscape
• Discussing mimicry and hybridization in regional salamander populations
• Hiking moderate trails to observe amphibians in their natural habitats
Participants will visit the Wasilik Poplar Trail to observe salamander diversity and potential hybrid populations while discussing the biogeographical forces that shape amphibian communities.
The day will conclude with a return to Highlands Biological Station by approximately 5:00 PM.

Physical Requirements
Participants should be in good physical condition for moderate hiking on uneven forest trails.

Please Bring
• Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear
• A sack lunch for both days
• A water bottle
• Field notebook and pencil (recommended)

The Nature of Drawing: A Naturalist’s Sketchbook
2026-06-17 08:00 - 17:00 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
The Nature of Drawing: A Naturalist’s Sketchbook
June 17, 2026
Instructor: Preston Montague
Discover the art of observation and storytelling through the naturalist’s sketchbook in this creative, hands-on workshop led by artist, educator, and landscape architect Preston Montague.
The naturalist’s sketchbook has long been a powerful tool for scientists, artists, and explorers to document the living world. In this workshop, participants will learn how drawing and note-taking can deepen our understanding of nature while capturing meaningful moments in the landscape.
Through guided exercises and outdoor observation, participants will learn foundational techniques for recording what they see using simple materials such as pen, pencil, and colored pencils. The focus is not on perfect drawings, but on developing careful observation skills and learning how sketches can tell stories about the natural world.
During the workshop, participants will:
• Practice observational drawing techniques
• Learn how to record notes and visual details in a naturalist’s sketchbook
• Explore ways to combine art and storytelling in nature journaling
• Build confidence in sketching plants, landscapes, and natural forms
• Develop a personal approach to documenting nature through art
This workshop is designed for beginners, though participants with intermediate drawing experience are also welcome. Whether you are new to drawing or looking to deepen your practice, the naturalist’s sketchbook offers a rewarding way to slow down and observe the world around you.
Participants will leave with new techniques for nature journaling and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural landscape.

Materials to Bring
Participants should bring the following materials:
• Sketchbook (Strathmore brand, 5.5″ × 8.5″ preferred)
• Colored pencils (Faber-Castell Polychromos 12 or 24 pack preferred)
• #2 pencils (Ticonderoga preferred)
• Pencil sharpener
• Sharpie ultra-fine pens

About the Instructor
Preston Montague is an artist, educator, and landscape architect who developed his love for the natural world in the rural foothills of Virginia. Based in Durham, North Carolina, Preston focuses on projects that inspire curiosity about nature and foster deeper connections between people and their environment.
His latest work, Codex Carolinum, is a collection of didactic botanical illustrations that blend art and storytelling to promote natural science literacy.

Southern Appalachian Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies: Session 1
2026-06-21 - 2026-07-02 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
June 21–July 2
Instructors: Session 1: Dr. John Morse, Clemson University & Dr. Alexander Orfinger, Dalton State College. Session 2: Dr. John Morse, Clemson University & Dr. Kelly Murray-Stoker, Emory University
Cost: $1,000.00
This immersive, two-week course provides a comprehensive introduction to the natural history, evolution, and taxonomy of the three major aquatic insect orders used in freshwater bioassessment: mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Plecoptera), and caddisflies (Trichoptera). Through a combination of several field excursions to Appalachian mountain streams and focused laboratory identification sessions, students will develop the skills needed to recognize EPT larvae—typically to at least genus—and adults to family level.
Course topics include systematics, morphology, behavioral and physiological adaptations for freshwater life, and the ecological roles of EPT taxa in stream ecosystems. Fieldwork emphasizes diverse collecting techniques across multiple stream orders, while laboratory sessions provide structured practice with diagnostic characters and curated identification resources. Throughout the course, students engage with the principles that make EPT taxa foundational to ecological monitoring, water-quality assessment, and aquatic biodiversity research.
Ideal for students in ecology, entomology, environmental science, or freshwater biology, this course offers the rare opportunity to build taxonomic expertise through intensive hands-on training in one of the most biodiverse regions of the Southern Appalachians.

Biology of Southern Appalachian Mammals
2026-07-06 - 2026-07-17 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
July 6–17, 2026
Instructor: Dr. Catherine Haase, Associate Professor, Department of Biology; Principal Investigator, Center of Excellence for Field Biology, Austin Peay State University
Explore the remarkable diversity of mammals that call the Southern Appalachian Mountains home. This intensive field course blends lecture, laboratory, and hands-on field experiences to immerse students in the biology, ecology, and conservation of regional mammalian species.
Students will study the defining characteristics, taxonomy, and adaptations of major mammalian Orders and Families—paying particular attention to those species most representative of the Southern Appalachians. In the lab, participants will work with museum specimens such as skulls and skins to develop identification and diagnostic skills while learning key terminology in anatomy and morphology.
Field components of the course will introduce essential wildlife research techniques, including live-trapping with Sherman traps, mark-recapture studies, and radio telemetry for tracking movement and population ecology. Students will collect, analyze, and interpret field data that reflect professional research practices in mammalogy and conservation biology.
Lecture topics will cover mammalian physiology, metabolism and thermoregulation, reproductive strategies, environmental adaptations, feeding ecology, spatial behavior, and the conservation challenges facing Appalachian mammal populations. Assessments include a lab practical, a lecture exam, and an oral presentation focusing on a unique adaptation that enables a mammalian species to thrive in this biodiverse region.
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Identify local mammal species and understand their ecological and physiological adaptations
Apply analytical and field techniques to evaluate habitat use and population dynamics
Gain practical experience that builds a foundation for careers in wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation science
This course offers a comprehensive and immersive introduction to mammalogy and field ecology within one of North America’s most biologically rich mountain regions.

Southern Appalachian Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies: Session 2
2026-07-06 - 2026-07-17 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
July 6-17, 2026
Instructors: Session 1: Dr. John Morse, Clemson University & Dr. Alexander Orfinger, Dalton State College. Session 2: Dr. John Morse, Clemson University & Dr. Kelly Murray-Stoker, Emory University
This immersive, two-week course provides a comprehensive introduction to the natural history, evolution, and taxonomy of the three major aquatic insect orders used in freshwater bioassessment: mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Plecoptera), and caddisflies (Trichoptera). Through a combination of several field excursions to Appalachian mountain streams and focused laboratory identification sessions, students will develop the skills needed to recognize EPT larvae—typically to at least genus—and adults to family level.
Course topics include systematics, morphology, behavioral and physiological adaptations for freshwater life, and the ecological roles of EPT taxa in stream ecosystems. Fieldwork emphasizes diverse collecting techniques across multiple stream orders, while laboratory sessions provide structured practice with diagnostic characters and curated identification resources. Throughout the course, students engage with the principles that make EPT taxa foundational to ecological monitoring, water-quality assessment, and aquatic biodiversity research.
Ideal for students in ecology, entomology, environmental science, or freshwater biology, this course offers the rare opportunity to build taxonomic expertise through intensive hands-on training in one of the most biodiverse regions of the Southern Appalachians.

Conservation Biology in the Southern Appalachians
2026-07-20 - 2026-07-31 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
July 20–31, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Christopher B. Mowry, Berry College
Conservation biology is a multidisciplinary science devoted to understanding and safeguarding Earth’s biodiversity—a field that is both inspiring in its discoveries and sobering in its urgency. Nowhere is this duality more evident than in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the world’s recognized biodiversity hotspots. Students in this course will encounter the region’s remarkable species richness firsthand while exploring the ecological, social, and management complexities that shape modern conservation efforts.
Course Overview
Classroom lessons will be directly connected to field experiences in nearby forests, coves, bogs, and bottomlands. Students will engage with a range of core topics, including:
Patterns, distribution, and measurement of biodiversity
Population modeling and extinction vulnerability
Climate change impacts and adaptation
Habitat loss, fragmentation, and connectivity
Overexploitation, invasive species, and disease
Endangered species management
In situ and ex situ conservation strategies
The roles of local, national, and international conservation organizations
Throughout the course, students will gain exposure to practitioners and researchers whose expertise and on-the-ground experience illuminate real-world conservation challenges and solutions.
Format & Expectations
Each day will combine lecture-based instruction with field and laboratory activities. The schedule will remain flexible to accommodate weather conditions and guest collaborators, but students should plan for 7–8 hours per day of engagement in class and/or field settings. Lectures will be supplemented with visual tools—including presentations, news stories, online resources, and selected films—while hands-on learning will include:
Field site visits and case studies
Computer modeling exercises
Compilation of a biodiversity journal
Written lab assignments submitted through Canvas
Who Should Enroll
This course is designed primarily for upper-level undergraduates majoring in biology, environmental science, or related fields who have—or wish to develop—a strong foundation in organismal and ecological biology. A working knowledge of basic ecological and evolutionary principles is recommended; however, students at other stages in their academic careers are encouraged to contact the instructor with questions. The course is also open to lifelong learners and those seeking CEUs or CECs.

Spiders of the Southern Appalachians
2026-07-20 - 2026-07-31 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
July 20–31, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Sarah Stellwagen, UNC–Charlotte & Dr. Alex Sweger, Hartwick College
This course offers an immersive introduction to spider systematics, morphology, behavior, physiology, and ecology. Each day begins with morning and/or evening lectures and discussions that build a comprehensive foundation in arachnology.
Afternoons are dedicated to fieldwork across the Southern Appalachians, with the goal of assembling a substantial collection of the region’s remarkably diverse spider fauna while observing ecological interactions and behavioral patterns. Students typically encounter 28–30 spider families during the course.
Evenings provide focused time in the lab for species identification and collection work, and students are expected to devote sufficient time to developing their taxonomic skills. The course also incorporates spider videos, informal discussions, and opportunities to explore a variety of topics in spider biology and evolution.
Lecture and discussion sessions will cover:
An introduction to spiders, including family-level diversity and collecting techniques
External morphology and characters used in identification
Spider systematics, phylogeny, paleontology, and the history of spider taxonomy
Behavior, ecology, and biodiversity
Internal morphology and physiology, including digestion, toxins, pheromones, and silk chemistry and production
Designed for students, researchers, and naturalists alike, this course provides a deep and hands-on understanding of one of the most ecologically significant—and often overlooked—groups in the Southern Appalachians.

Botany Bootcamp
2026-07-27 09:00 - 16:00 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
Botany Bootcamp
July 27, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Dr. Paul Manos, Duke University
Botany Bootcamp is an engaging, hands-on workshop designed to introduce participants to the remarkable diversity of plant life found on the Highlands Plateau. Hosted at the Highlands Biological Station, this immersive day blends short lectures with interactive activities to build a foundational understanding of botany in a relaxed and supportive learning environment.
Throughout the workshop, participants will explore key botanical concepts while examining the structure, form, and growth habits of common native plants found on the Station’s grounds. With guidance from Dr. Paul Manos, participants will learn how botanists observe plants, identify important structures, and recognize patterns that help distinguish different plant groups.
Activities may include:
• Examining plant structures and forms using hand lenses and microscopes
• Sketching flowers, leaves, and other plant features to sharpen observational skills
• Discussing plant adaptations and growth patterns
• Exploring native plants growing on the Highlands Biological Station campus
• Learning the basics of plant identification and botanical terminology
This workshop is designed for beginners and plant enthusiasts alike. No prior botanical experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to look closely at the plants around us.
Whether you are a nature lover, gardener, artist, educator, or simply interested in learning more about the plants of the Southern Appalachians, Botany Bootcamp offers a fun and accessible introduction to the world of botany.
Join us for a day of discovery as we magnify tiny plant details, practice careful observation, and deepen our appreciation for the incredible diversity of plants on the Highlands Plateau.

Please Bring
• Binoculars if you have them (loaner pairs will be available if needed)
• A lightweight Crazy Creek–style camp chair or small foam pad for sitting
• Weather-appropriate layers and comfortable outdoor footwear

Macrofungi of the Blue Ridge
2026-08-03 - 2026-08-14 | Highlands Biological Station, 265 North 6th St, Highlands, NC, 28741, United States
4 Credit Hours
August 3–14, 2026
Instructors: Dr. Rachel Swenie, Harvard University
This hands-on course introduces students to the collection, identification, and diversity of macrofungi—including mushrooms—of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains.
Students will develop skills in field collection, morphological and anatomical identification, and specimen preservation for continued study.
Lecture and discussion topics include:
The biology of the mushroom lifecycle
Ecological roles of fungi
Fungal diversity and evolutionary relationships
Documenting and preserving field specimens
DNA barcoding methods
Each day includes a morning field trip followed by an afternoon lecture and laboratory session. In the lab, students will examine and identify collections using morphological analysis and dichotomous keys. Microscopes and chemical reagents will be available for accurate species determinations.
Fungal specimens will be dried and labeled for herbarium preservation, and the lab will remain open in the evenings for additional study and exploration.
