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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://highlandsbiological.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Highlands Biological Station
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260311T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260311T160000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260225T180202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T180754Z
UID:29386-1773223200-1773244800@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Protecting Our Hemlocks: Public Workshop at Highlands Biological Station
DESCRIPTION:Join us on March 11 for a special outdoor workshop focused on the conservation and treatment of eastern hemlocks. Led by licensed professionals\, this hands-on program will introduce participants to hemlock health assessment\, treatment decision-making\, and application methods used to combat hemlock woolly adelgid. \nThe morning session features a live\, demonstrative lecture\, followed by guided treatment activities in the afternoon. This workshop is open to the public and designed for land stewards\, natural resource professionals\, and anyone interested in forest conservation. \nWorkshop flyer \nSpace is limited. Advance registration is required.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/protecting-our-hemlocks-public-workshop-at-highlands-biological-station/
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/Hemlock-Workshop.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260313T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260313T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T203950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T142242Z
UID:29350-1773396000-1773415800@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:ecoEXPLORE Plant Scavenger Hunt (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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. \necoEXPLORE 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/. \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/ecoexplore-plant-scavenger-hunt-mar13/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ecoexplore-march-2026-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260313T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260313T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T205253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T205253Z
UID:29360-1773396000-1773415800@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Tree Texture Investigation (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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! \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/tree-texture-investigation-mar13/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/tree-texture-investigation.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260314T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260314T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T204216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T142350Z
UID:29354-1773482400-1773502200@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:ecoEXPLORE Plant Scavenger Hunt (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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. \necoEXPLORE 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/. \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/ecoexplore-plant-scavenger-hunt-mar14/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ecoexplore-march-2026-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260314T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260314T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T205410Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T205410Z
UID:29362-1773482400-1773502200@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Tree Texture Investigation (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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! \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/tree-texture-investigation-mar14/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/tree-texture-investigation.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260321T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260322T160000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T193246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T193246Z
UID:29347-1774087200-1774195200@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:The Lost (and Found!) Shortia: HBS Oconee Bells 2026!
DESCRIPTION: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. \nThis 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. \nSaturday\, March 21 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM \nThe 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. \nFollowing 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. \nSunday\, March 22 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM \nOn 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. \nThe 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. \nTogether\, 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. \nParticipants may register for one or both days. Space is limited.
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/the-lost-and-found-shortia-hbs-oconee-bells-2026/
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/HBS-Oconee-Bells.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Highlands Biological Station":MAILTO:hbs@wcu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260327T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260327T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T204517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T142533Z
UID:29356-1774605600-1774625400@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:ecoEXPLORE Plant Scavenger Hunt (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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. \necoEXPLORE 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/. \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/ecoexplore-plant-scavenger-hunt-mar27/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ecoexplore-march-2026-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260327T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260327T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T205504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T205504Z
UID:29364-1774605600-1774625400@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Tree Texture Investigation (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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! \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/tree-texture-investigation-mar27/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/tree-texture-investigation.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260328T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T205014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T142544Z
UID:29358-1774692000-1774711800@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:ecoEXPLORE Plant Scavenger Hunt (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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. \necoEXPLORE 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/. \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/ecoexplore-plant-scavenger-hunt-mar28/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ecoexplore-march-2026-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260328T153000
DTSTAMP:20260410T170626
CREATED:20260223T205612Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T205612Z
UID:29366-1774692000-1774711800@highlandsbiological.org
SUMMARY:Tree Texture Investigation (Drop-In Station)
DESCRIPTION: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! \nMarch 13-14 & 27-28\nFREE | Drop-in from 10 am – 3:30 pm \nProgram provided by:
URL:https://highlandsbiological.org/event/tree-texture-investigation-mar28/
LOCATION:Highlands Nature Center\, 930 Horse Cove Rd.\, Highlands\, NC\, 28741\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://highlandsbiological.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/tree-texture-investigation.jpg
END:VEVENT
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