Join us at Lake James State Park for a NC Science Festival event.
Topics Related to Mountain Region
Join us at Gorges State Park for a guided hike that will discuss winter tree identification at the park.
Carrie Blair uses slides, books and samples of leaves & twigs to illustrate how you can determine the genus, and often the species as well, of all of our locally growing native trees, with some ornamental and introduced trees. After watching her power point program, a walk outside will guide participants to identify common trees up close. Carrie will share a long list of tree field guides (beginner to advanced) that she recommends. You are welcome to bring your own tree identification books and a long twig (at least foot long) recently cut from a living tree showing buds and leaf scars to identify. The workshop is free and open to the public but classroom space is limited so please register to attend at this link: https://northcarolinanativeplantsociety.wildapricot.org/event-5995874
Winter sowing is an easy, inexpensive way to put nature to work growing seedlings that will be ready to thrive in your local climate. Transylvania County Master Gardeners Cindy Gilbert and Holly Votaw will lead a hands-on workshop on winter sowing with a focus on native North Carolina plants. Participants will create a milk-jug planter with soil and seeds and take-home information on how to use this method at home. The workshop is free and open to the public but space is limited so please register to attend at this link: https://northcarolinanativeplantsociety.wildapricot.org/event-5994091
Join a ranger to learn about the many different mammals of Gorges State Park. Come see and touch the furs and skulls of animals such as bobcats, foxes, and bears. We will also learn about some of the characteristics of each of the animals discussed. Meet at the Visitor Center Classroom.
State Parks Director Brian Strong provides additional information on post-Helene rescue and recovery efforts and the status of western state parks.
The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation is providing an opportunity for public comment on a collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense.
Bryan Wilder has been promoted as the superintendent of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County.
The campground at Gorges State Park will be closed through at least November 16 due to black bear activity in the area.