Paul Bonesteel and Janet McCue
On Saturday, September 13, the Highlands Biological Station invites the public to A Celebration of Place – a free, one-day event honoring the native plants, landscapes, and cultural heritage of the Highlands Plateau.
The celebration offers a rich blend of nature exploration, storytelling, and community connection, all in support of the Highlands Botanical Gardens and their ongoing development, including the exciting South Gateway garden initiative.
From 2:00 to 4:30 P.M., visitors can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the Nature Center and Botanical Gardens. A native plant sale in the Amphitheatre behind the Highlands Nature Center will showcase locally grown selections ideal for home gardens, including the coveted Shortia, a rare and cherished Appalachian species that symbolizes the Station’s commitment to conservation and education.
We’ll also be offering hourly garden tours. This is one of my favorite times of year in the Botanical Gardens, and I’m sure others will be just as excited to see what’s changing with the season! Led by horticultural experts and garden stewards, these tours provide insight into the ecology, seasonal rhythms, and cultural significance of the region’s plants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply curious about the natural world, the tours promise inspiration and discovery at every turn.
At 5:00 P.M., the celebration continues with a special presentation in the Nature Center honoring the life and legacy of George Masa, the legendary photographer whose work helped shape public appreciation for the Southern Appalachian landscape. Authors Janet McCue and Paul Bonesteel will share stories from their book George Masa: A Life Reimagined, offering a moving portrait of Masa’s artistic vision and environmental passion. A Q&A session will follow, inviting guests to reflect on the enduring connection between nature and creative expression.
The evening concludes with a reception and book signing from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M., where attendees can meet the authors, purchase signed copies, and continue conversations sparked by the day’s events.
No registration or ticket is required – just come ready to explore, learn, and celebrate the beauty of place.
Visit highlandsbiological.org for full details about A Celebration of Place.
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