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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Highlands Biological Station
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260615T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260616T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260305T154346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T161029Z
UID:29858-1781514000-1781629200@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Amphibian Diversity & Biogeography Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Amphibian Diversity & Biogeography Workshop\nJune 15–16\, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily\nInstructor: Patrick Brannon \nThe 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. \nThrough 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. \n\nDay One: Highlands Biological Station\nThe first day will take place at Highlands Biological Station and will focus on foundational knowledge and field observation. \nParticipants will: \n• Learn to identify frog species by both sight and sound\n• Explore the biology and life history of salamanders\n• Discuss why the Southern Appalachians support such exceptional salamander diversity\n• Search for stream and terrestrial salamanders on the Station grounds\n• Investigate microhabitat use and local stream communities \nActivities 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. \nLunch: Participants should bring their own lunch. \n\nDay Two: Standing Indian Campground Field Trip\nOn 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. \nDuring this field-based exploration\, participants will examine the ecological gradients and microhabitats that influence amphibian distributions across the landscape. \nActivities may include: \n• Studying coarse woody debris and its role in salamander habitat and decomposition processes\n• Examining microhabitats and distributional gradients of terrestrial salamanders\n• Observing differences in species assemblages across the landscape\n• Discussing mimicry and hybridization in regional salamander populations\n• Hiking moderate trails to observe amphibians in their natural habitats \nParticipants will visit the Wasilik Poplar Trail to observe salamander diversity and potential hybrid populations while discussing the biogeographical forces that shape amphibian communities. \nThe day will conclude with a return to Highlands Biological Station by approximately 5:00 PM. \n\nPhysical Requirements\nParticipants should be in good physical condition for moderate hiking on uneven forest trails. \n\nPlease Bring\n• Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear\n• A sack lunch for both days\n• A water bottle\n• Field notebook and pencil (recommended)
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/amphibian-diversity-biogeography-workshop/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Amphibian-Diversity-Biogeography-Workshop-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260617T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260617T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260306T162615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T162615Z
UID:29878-1781683200-1781715600@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:The Nature of Drawing: A Naturalist’s Sketchbook
DESCRIPTION:The Nature of Drawing: A Naturalist’s Sketchbook\nJune 17\, 2026\nInstructor: Preston Montague \nDiscover 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. \nThe 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. \nThrough 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. \nDuring the workshop\, participants will: \n• Practice observational drawing techniques\n• Learn how to record notes and visual details in a naturalist’s sketchbook\n• Explore ways to combine art and storytelling in nature journaling\n• Build confidence in sketching plants\, landscapes\, and natural forms\n• Develop a personal approach to documenting nature through art \nThis 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. \nParticipants will leave with new techniques for nature journaling and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural landscape. \n\nMaterials to Bring\nParticipants should bring the following materials: \n• Sketchbook (Strathmore brand\, 5.5″ × 8.5″ preferred)\n• Colored pencils (Faber-Castell Polychromos 12 or 24 pack preferred)\n• #2 pencils (Ticonderoga preferred)\n• Pencil sharpener\n• Sharpie ultra-fine pens \n\nAbout the Instructor\nPreston 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. \nHis latest work\, Codex Carolinum\, is a collection of didactic botanical illustrations that blend art and storytelling to promote natural science literacy.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/the-nature-of-drawing-a-naturalists-sketchbook/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Nature-of-Drawing-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260621
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260703
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260106T160423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T160423Z
UID:28882-1782000000-1783036799@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Southern Appalachian Mayflies\, Stoneflies\, and Caddisflies: Session 1
DESCRIPTION:4 Credit Hours\nJune 21–July 2\nInstructors: 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\nCost: $1\,000.00 \nThis 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. \nCourse 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. \nIdeal 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.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/southern-appalachian-mayflies-stoneflies-and-caddisflies-session-1/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EPT-Final.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260706
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260718
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260106T155405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T160751Z
UID:28873-1783296000-1784332799@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Biology of Southern Appalachian Mammals
DESCRIPTION:4 Credit Hours\nJuly 6–17\, 2026\nInstructor: Dr. Catherine Haase\, Associate Professor\, Department of Biology; Principal Investigator\, Center of Excellence for Field Biology\, Austin Peay State University \nExplore 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. \nStudents 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. \nField 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. \nLecture 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. \nBy the end of the course\, students will be able to: \nIdentify local mammal species and understand their ecological and physiological adaptations\nApply analytical and field techniques to evaluate habitat use and population dynamics\nGain practical experience that builds a foundation for careers in wildlife biology\, ecology\, and conservation science\nThis course offers a comprehensive and immersive introduction to mammalogy and field ecology within one of North America’s most biologically rich mountain regions.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/biology-of-southern-appalachian-mammals/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mammals.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260706
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260718
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260106T160609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T133154Z
UID:28884-1783296000-1784332799@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Southern Appalachian Mayflies\, Stoneflies\, and Caddisflies: Session 2
DESCRIPTION:4 Credit Hours\nJuly 6-17\, 2026\nInstructors: 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 \nThis 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. \nCourse 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. \nIdeal 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.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/southern-appalachian-mayflies-stoneflies-and-caddisflies-session-2-3/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EPT-Final.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260720
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260801
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260106T155724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T133116Z
UID:28877-1784505600-1785542399@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Conservation Biology in the Southern Appalachians
DESCRIPTION:4 Credit Hours\nJuly 20–31\, 2026\nInstructors: Dr. Christopher B. Mowry\, Berry College \nConservation 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. \nCourse Overview\nClassroom 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: \nPatterns\, distribution\, and measurement of biodiversity \nPopulation modeling and extinction vulnerability \nClimate change impacts and adaptation \nHabitat loss\, fragmentation\, and connectivity \nOverexploitation\, invasive species\, and disease \nEndangered species management \nIn situ and ex situ conservation strategies \nThe roles of local\, national\, and international conservation organizations \nThroughout the course\, students will gain exposure to practitioners and researchers whose expertise and on-the-ground experience illuminate real-world conservation challenges and solutions. \nFormat & Expectations\nEach 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: \nField site visits and case studies \nComputer modeling exercises \nCompilation of a biodiversity journal \nWritten lab assignments submitted through Canvas \nWho Should Enroll\nThis 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.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/conservation-biology-in-the-southern-appalachians/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Conservation-Biology.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260720
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260801
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260106T160932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T161013Z
UID:28886-1784505600-1785542399@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Spiders of the Southern Appalachians
DESCRIPTION:4 Credit Hours\nJuly 20–31\, 2026\nInstructors: Dr. Sarah Stellwagen\, UNC–Charlotte & Dr. Alex Sweger\, Hartwick College \nThis 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. \nAfternoons 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. \nEvenings 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. \nLecture and discussion sessions will cover: \nAn introduction to spiders\, including family-level diversity and collecting techniques \nExternal morphology and characters used in identification \nSpider systematics\, phylogeny\, paleontology\, and the history of spider taxonomy \nBehavior\, ecology\, and biodiversity \nInternal morphology and physiology\, including digestion\, toxins\, pheromones\, and silk chemistry and production \nDesigned 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.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/spiders-of-the-southern-appalachians-2/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Spiders.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260727T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260727T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260305T154138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T154138Z
UID:29856-1785142800-1785168000@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Botany Bootcamp
DESCRIPTION:Botany Bootcamp\nJuly 27\, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM\nInstructor: Dr. Paul Manos\, Duke University \nBotany 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. \nThroughout 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. \nActivities may include: \n• Examining plant structures and forms using hand lenses and microscopes\n• Sketching flowers\, leaves\, and other plant features to sharpen observational skills\n• Discussing plant adaptations and growth patterns\n• Exploring native plants growing on the Highlands Biological Station campus\n• Learning the basics of plant identification and botanical terminology \nThis 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. \nWhether 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. \nJoin 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. \n\nPlease Bring \n• Binoculars if you have them (loaner pairs will be available if needed)\n• A lightweight Crazy Creek–style camp chair or small foam pad for sitting\n• Weather-appropriate layers and comfortable outdoor footwear
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/botany-bootcamp-1-2/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Botany-Bootcamp-1-Workshop.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260803
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260815
DTSTAMP:20260403T184949
CREATED:20260106T160144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T160634Z
UID:28879-1785715200-1786751999@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Macrofungi of the Blue Ridge
DESCRIPTION:4 Credit Hours\nAugust 3–14\, 2026\nInstructors: Dr. Rachel Swenie\, Harvard University \nThis hands-on course introduces students to the collection\, identification\, and diversity of macrofungi—including mushrooms—of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. \nStudents will develop skills in field collection\, morphological and anatomical identification\, and specimen preservation for continued study. \nLecture and discussion topics include: \nThe biology of the mushroom lifecycle \nEcological roles of fungi \nFungal diversity and evolutionary relationships \nDocumenting and preserving field specimens \nDNA barcoding methods \nEach 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. \nFungal specimens will be dried and labeled for herbarium preservation\, and the lab will remain open in the evenings for additional study and exploration.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/macrofungi-of-the-blue-ridge/
LOCATION:Highlands Biological Station\, 265 North 6th St\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Macrofingu.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
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