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 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

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.