Immerse Yourself in Nature

Written By: Sonya Carpenter - Highlands Biological Foundation | Issue: 2017/03 - March

Since its founding 90 years ago in 1927, the Highlands Biological Station has specialized in immersion-based outdoor education and programming under the philosophy that the best way to learn about the natural world is to experience it.

This summer, we have six workshops tailored to the members of our community.  In the first, led by Dr. Timothy Spira of Clemson University May 1-5, you’ll discover the allure of waterfalls and the wildflowers that populate our local spray cliff communities.  

The second workshop, with Brent Martin of The Wilderness Society, will meet May 15-20 to explore the Western North Carolina landscape through the writings of renowned 18th century naturalist and artist William Bartram.  In this workshop, you will gain insight into the literary and intellectual world of Bartram’s Travels, set in context with the cultural and natural history of our region at that time.

From June 5-9, photographers of all skill levels may join Dr. Kefyn Catley of Western Carolina University to experience nature from a bugs-eye view.  This unique workshop will address the biology behind the photograph for photographers and the art behind the image for those with a biology background, combining art and science to result in beautiful and useful photos.

On July 10-14, Dr. Larry Mellichamp of UNC-Charlotte will be offering a workshop on gardening with native plants in Highlands.  This will be a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with the habitat factors that define where plants grow and to learn how to use those factors in your own garden.  

On July 17-18, Highlands Botanical Garden horticulturist Russell Funderburk will lead a short workshop on designing and implementing a rain garden, a sustainable way to reduce pollution and runoff while cultivating native plants.

Lastly, Dr. Alan Bessette of Utica College and Arleen Bessette and Michael Hopping of the Asheville Mushroom Club offer their expertise on August 14-18, both for the beginner who wants a solid introduction to the fleshy mushrooms of the Southern Appalachian Mountains and those looking for the opportunity to pursue their personal mycological interests. 

These adventure-based workshops will meet at the Highlands Biological Station for the entire day and into the evenings, with breaks for meals.  Members of the Highlands Biological Foundation at the Sagee Mountain level and above receive a $50 discount.  For more information about courses, costs, and instructors, call (828) 526-2602 or visit highlandsbiological.org/summer-2017 and scroll down to the Workshop Section.