REGISTRATION FOR THIS YEAR'S CONFERENCE IS NOW CLOSED.
NO FURTHER REGISTRATIONS CAN BE ACCEPTED.
Schedule-AT-A-Glance
Lean More About Our 2023 Speakers & Trip Leaders
Conference Costs and On-Campus Accommodations
IMPORTANT: All Wednesday Field Trips are Currently Full.
Field Trips will depart at 8:30AM from Norton Residence Hall’s Parking Lot (Not the Ramsey Center). Field Trips are
$85 ($99 for Kayaking FT. 3). Wednesday workshops are $45.00.
CLOSED - FT. 1 Blue Ridge Grassland Communities w/ Gary Kauffman
Over 100 grass species occur within the Southern Appalachians. They are more concentrated
in habitats ranging from open balds, wetlands, and recently disturbed areas. The
field trip will visit a variety of grassland communities concentrating on Buck Creek
serpentine barrens in Clay County, the edge of a Southern Appalachian bog and a rich
cove forest contrasting the diversity of grasses. We will discuss common and rare
grass species, the role of fire in plant community health, plus enjoy other magnificent
flora, fauna, and geology of the Southern Appalachians. Twenty-five grass species
are present within the serpentine site, perhaps the rarest plant community within
western NC. These include the more common little and big bluestems, as well as various
rare species. If you have a hand lens, it would be great to include since the field
trip will examine different grass parts, which are typically small. Difficulty: The
trip is (3) moderately strenuous due to the rocky, uneven terrain and several mile
traverse.
CLOSED - FT. 2 Black Balsam Knob Cloud Community w/ Randy Burroughs
Black Balsam Knob Cloud Community Field Trip - In a series of easy to moderate hikes
we’ll ascend through these sky-island plant communities: high elevation red oak, beech
gap & spruce-fir forests to heath shrub and grassy balds, in various stages of transition.
We’ll discuss the plants, their ecology and compare the relative stability of these
complex systems. At lunch, we’ll climb Black Balsam Knob (6,214’) for 360 views and
some observations about mountain building. Weather is changeable. Rain/wind gear and
good shoes are recommended. Be prepared to enjoy an intense day outdoors in Maine.
Field Trip Difficulty: 3
CLOSED - FT. 3 Kayaking the Little TN River w/ Peter Loos, Dawn Sherry & Brent
Martin
This eight mile kayak trip takes participants down the Little Tennessee River through
a rural and forested landscape, ending at Tellico Creek on the Needmore tract. We
will see a wide diversity of riparian species, as well as experience the conservation
success story of the 5,000 acre Needmore tract acquisition. It's a gorgeous section
of river with significant cultural and natural history. Some basic kayaking experience
is necessary, and good knee mobility and physical condition is essential for getting
in and out of boats, exposure, a journal, botanical field guides, sunscreen, hand
lens, are essential and recommended for a quality experience. Limit = 36. Hike difficulty
rating = 3, moderately strenuous.
CLOSED - FT. 4 Green with Envy: Moss Landscaping w/ Mossin' Annie
Year-round green appeal can be yours with the incorporation of native mosses (bryophytes)
as preferred horticultural choices in your landscape. Annie Martin (aka Mossin’ Annie)
will lead your journey into the magical world of moss gardening. We’ll spend the day
in nearby Cashiers in a serene retreat which features appropriate shade and sun moss
species intentionally planted over a decade ago. Of particular interest are the Zen
moss garden, moss and stone paths, fairy garden and a huge labyrinth. Mossin’ Annie
will identify moss species; review design considerations; demonstrate maintenance
methods and discuss troubleshooting issues pertinent to long-term success. NEW this
year, participants will have the “hands-on” opportunity to create an enticing moss
feature together. Dress in work clothes. Mosses love the rain so we’ll keep working
rain or shine. Flat-soled shoes or boots (even flip flops) are preferred rather than
hiking boots, athletic shoes, Crocs or sandals. Gloves are optional. We’re going to
have a mossin’ good time!
CLOSED - FT. 5 Whiteside Mountain – w/ Jeff Zahner
With sheer bluffs shining like a beacon over the upper Piedmont, Whiteside Mountain
is a regional landmark with dramatic geology, a rich flora, and ancient history. On
this three-mile loop hike, Jeff will discuss the many unique high-elevation plants
found along the trail and interpret the natural history of the mountain. The views
on top are some of the best in the Southeast and one might even see a Peregrine Falcon
on the hunt. The hike requires sturdy shoes, rain gear, and a small pack to carry
lunch and water. After the hike the group will visit the Zahner homestead, gardens,
and nursery to see many examples of native plants in a garden setting. Uses, growth,
and management of many types of native plants will be discussed and the slightly over-grown
“wild formal” garden of Jeff’s grandmother will be explored. Limit = 10. Hike difficulty
rating = 3, moderately strenuous
CLOSED - FT. 6 Design Inspiration in Panthertown Valley w/ Preston Montague
Join landscape architect, Preston Montague, for a hike through Panthertown Valley
discussing natural precedents he uses for inspiration in his landscape designs. Participants
will have the opportunity to discuss landscape design with Preston as well as practice
seeing design solutions in wild(er) environments. Difficulty =strenuous= hiking, uneven trails, steep terrain, up to four miles.
CLOSED - FT. 7 High Elevation Grass Bald Ecology Hike w/ Geoffrey Neal
Andrews Bald is the highest grassy bald in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
It is one of two grassy balds maintained by the park service. Our hike will begin
at Clingmans Dome and proceed along the Forney Ridge Trail for 1.8 miles to the bald.
There is an elevation change of 900 feet on this out-and-back hike and portions of
the trail are rocky. We will move through a declining spruce-fir forest before coming
out to the bald itself. Native azaleas, serviceberry, hawthorn, blackberries will
be abundant. We will lunch on the bald itself, carrying in and out what we need. Time
will be given to explore the area and discuss ideas concerning the origin, maintenance
and future of these enigmatic hilltops. The views (weather allowing) should be amazing!
We will take our time on the hike back to explore the surrounding plant communities.
Time permitting, those with the energy may (briskly) walk the half-mile ramp up to
the Clingmans Dome observation point (100-mile views on a clear day!) before our return.
Hike difficulty rating = 3 Moderately strenuous (not a long hike, 3.6 miles total,
but significant elevation change).
CLOSED - FT. 8 Mosses of the Blue Ridge Parkway w/ Robert Wyatt & Anne Stoneburner
Come with us to explore the magical world of mosses, miniature nonvascular plants
that are often overlooked even by avid botanists. Learn about the varied microhabitats
in which they thrive and the great diversity of species in the Southern Appalachians.
Learn too about their structure and function, as well as their taxonomy and ecology.
We will appreciate their beauty in places where they are abundant, including boreal
spruce-fir forest, seepage cliffs and bogs, and red oak-beech-sedge forest. Expect
to see dramatic stands of “feather mosses” such as Ptilium crista-castrensis, Hylocomium splendens, and Pleurozium schreberi, as well as peat mosses and epiphytes. Higher elevations on the Parkway can be surprisingly
cool, so dress appropriately, including rain gear. A good field guide is Mosses of the Northeast and Appalachians by McKnight et al. (2013) in the Princeton Field Guide series (cost about $20).
Limit = 10. Hike difficulty rating = 3, moderately strenuous.
CLOSED - FT 9 Panthertown Valley Ethnobotanical Tour w/ David Cozzo & Adam Bigelow
Panthertown Valley is a 6,300-acre Forest Service tract that is often referred to
as the “Yosemite of the East” due to the granite domes and stunning setting. At an
elevation of 3,600 feet, the flat valley floor is traversed by slow-moving, tannin-stained
streams and dotted with rare Southern Appalachian bog communities. On this trip we
will enjoy the varied plant communities and view the region from an ethnobotanical
perspective, especially the Cherokee relationship to selected species. This is a very
strenuous hike of more than six miles with several steep, half-hour climbs and descents.
You will want to be in good shape and bring a pack, extra water, and rain gear. Limit
= 20. Hike difficulty rating = 5, very strenuous. Participants are invited to bring
a swimsuit for a dip in Schoolhouse Falls (optional).
CLOSED - FT. 10 Big Ridge Preserve and Amazing Grace Properties, LLC w/ Ron Lance
Big Ridge Preserve is a private tract of land covering 2700 acres of forested, mountainous
terrain in the Big Ridge Community of Jackson County. It is not open to the general
public. The group will be led by Ron Lance, Land Manager of the property. Three interpretive
stops and 3 walks are planned as an introduction to this diverse property. One stroll
is easy, one moderate (about 0.5 mile) and one moderately strenuous (near 1 mile).
Natural habitats to be visited include rock cliffs, mountain oak-hickory forests,
cove hardwood forests, native grass and Ceanothus meadows, and an orchard. This property’s vascular plant inventory includes 641 species,
to date. A few interesting native species along the proposed tours include Populus grandidentata, Amelanchier sanguinea, Lonicera flava, Primula meadia, Scutellaria incana, Sabatia angularis, Mimulus ringens, Crataegus schuettei, Carya pallida and white-flowered Rubus odoratus.
CLOSED - FT. 11 Southern Highlands Reserve w/ Kelly Holbrooks & Eric Kimbrel
Please join Executive Director Kelly Holdbrooks and Director of Horticulture Eric
Kimbrel for a tour of Southern Highlands Reserve. On this walk through the Core Park
we will explore 20 acres of garden rooms including Azalea Walk, Maple Entrance, Woodland
Glade, the Wildflower Labyrinth, Vaseyi Pond and the Viewsite, all designed with high
elevation native plant species. Along the way, Eric and Kelly will share stories about
the conception and manifestation of the Reserve as well as knowledge about best management
practices learned through their direct experience of adaptive land management. The
tour will end at the Nursery Complex where we will discuss our propagation techniques
and role in restoration projects for public lands such as the red spruce project.
Following the tour, please enjoy a sack lunch on the Rooftop Terrace or at the Chestnut
Lodge picnic table. According to Dick Bir, SHR may be the largest naturally existing
stand of Vaseyi azlaeas anywhere in the world.
CLOSED - FT. 12 Highlands Botanical Garden w/ Sonya Carpenter
We will visit Highlands, NC, to visit the remarkable Highlands Biological Station
Botanical Gardens plus three private gardens to see an unbelievable array of famous,
interesting, and attractive native plants in a variety of naturalistic settings. We
will see such great natives as Shortia, ginseng, gentians, Hexastylis, pirate bush,
Florida Torreya, mountain sweet pitcher plant, mountain sweet pepperbush, mountain
mint, silverleaf hydrangea, grass-of-parnassus, prostrate juniper, bottle-brush buckeye,
sand-myrtle, pawpaw, turk's-cap lilies, hercules'-club, Spiraea virginiana, many more
wildflowers and shrubs, and many different ferns. We will discuss identification,
culture, pruning, propagation, landscape use, cultivar selections, interactions with
birds and insects, and conservation. Be prepared to say wow! Limit = 15. Hike difficulty
rating = 1, easy.
CLOSED - FT. 13 - Botanizing on the Blue Ridge Parkway w/ Adam Black & George Morris
We will explore the botanical treasures along the roadsides of the higher elevations
on the Blue Ridge Parkway. We will have stops along the Parkway from mountain cove
to scree slopes and bog gardens and explore multiple ecotones within these areas and
discover the unique plants that inhabit these ecotones. We will likely see sundews,
orchids, and multiple hypericums. This is an easy trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
CLOSED - FT. 14 Sam's Knob Valley & Flat Laurel Creek w/ Laurie Lawson & Owen Carson
The Sam Knob Valley / Flat Laurel Creek loop hike takes participants on a wild journey
through some of WNC’s most amazing and diverse ecosystems! Beginning in the upper
valley with Sam Knob looming in the distance, the rugged trail descends southward
towards Flat Laurel Creek in the bottom of the valley, skirting beautiful spruce-fir
forests to the east and steep, shrub-dominated balds to the west. On our way along
the loop, we’ll pass through many different ecotones, including shrub balds, meadows,
high-elevation bogs and seeps, northern hardwood forests, acidic coves, and more,
and in transit we’ll discuss their defining characteristics, dynamics, and the interesting
and uncommon plants they contain. We’ll also explore the natural and anthropogenic
history of the valley and why it looks the way it does today. Hikers will take lunch
beside Flat Laurel Creek and its beautiful cascades before ascending northward toward
Sam Knob then back eastward to the trailhead. Participants should be prepared with
plenty of water (a filter will suffice as there are many stream crossings), snacks
and lunch, and gear for inclement weather; additional useful gear could include hiking
poles, a hand lens, binoculars, and identification guidebooks. Potential hazards include
slips/trips/falls, submerged crossings (wet boots), open, exposed terrain, and encounters
with venomous snakes, stinging insects, and black bears.
W 1: Working with Cast Stone and Botanical Imprints with Jeff Jackson
In this workshop you will learn multiple techniques for making plant imprints in cast
stone. Drawing on Jeff's 25+ years working in this medium, you will learn what goes
into cast stone, different mixes, design, mold-making, pigments - the works. Speaking
of, Jeff puts the "work" in workshop, so bring your gloves! You'll go home with a
few things of your own making and enough ideas to last a lifetime.
W 2: Wild Herb Tea & Herbal Syrup Workshop w/ April Punsalan
Join April Punsalan to learn how to make herbal teas and syrups from local wild herbs.
We will focus on wild herbs that you can forage to stimulate your immune system. The
workshop will begin with a forage stroll along WCU Nature Trail System, followed by
herbal tea and syrup demonstrations. Bring a mug!
W 3: Botanical Illustration Workshop w/ Amy Tipton
Botanists must learn to develop a keen eye. Skills of “seeing” developed for using
keys and discerning species are similar to an artist’s approach of understanding and
representing their subject. Plants offer an unending supply of interesting shapes,
textures, and details to challenge botanists and artists alike. Amy will help introduce
participants to critical exploration of plant forms through dissection and investigation
of several species. A review of basic plant parts and floral arrangement will be
presented as a refresher. Once the participants choose a plant/flower to draw, they
will be guided in the creation of several detailed drawings and thumbnail sketches
in preparation for developing a full plant portrait in graphite pencil. Themes of
composition, proportion, line quality, and value will be included in this in-depth
workshop. Each participant should be able to complete a plant portrait with details,
similar to a classic scientific illustration.
W 4: Gardening for the Planet: Native Pollinators, Native Plants, No Pesticides w/ Brannen
Basham & Jill Jacobs
Discover the countless benefits of viewing your land as part of the ecosystem and
mimicking the incredible power of natural spaces. Recreating that process is possible
within your own garden, and it all starts with gaining a deeper understanding of the
native beneficial creatures that are the cogs of our ecosystem. Learn how to foster
pollinators and other wildlife through your plantings, so that they in turn can help
your garden operate at maximum efficiency.Explore methods of creating a balance in
your garden through native plantings and other key pieces of habitat to attract the
pollinators, predators, prey, and microbes needed in a thriving and well-balanced
ecosystem. The course will be held primarily inside, with explorative walks around
campus in the morning and afternoon (difficulty level 1). Information on Integrated
Pest Management (IPM) and a general IPM template will be provided as part of this
course.
WEDNESDAY EVENING
5:30pm – 6:45pm Dinner at Ramsey Center
7:00pm – 7:30pm First Timers Session
7:30pm – 7:45pm Break
7:45pm - 8:00pm Welcome (Main Stage)
8:00 – 9:00pm Plenary #1 – Social Media’s Role in the Native Plant Movement (Panel)
The panel comprised of native plant oriented folks each present on multiple platforms
of social media will share a brief introduction to themselves and their platforms
after which the floor will be opened to participants for comments, questions, and
suggestions that may require a response from anywhere from one to all of the panelists.
The goal of this is to have an educational and enthusiastic, lively, and equal participation
between the audience and the panelists.
7:00am – 8:00am Breakfast
8:30am – 9:30am Vendor Walk
9:30am- 9:45am Welcome
9:45am – 10:45am Plenary #2 - Guide to the Wildflowers of South Carolina - Three lifetimes of experience
under one cover w/ Patrick McMillan and Richard Porcher
The newly released revised and expanded edition of A Guide to the Wildflowers of South
Carolina (Oct. 2022) provides a major advancement in the collected knowledge of the
identification, ranges, and ecology of our wildflowers. Nearly 1000 species are treated,
along with color photographs and county-level range maps. The book was the product
of three lifetime’s work by noted botanists Richard D. Porcher, Doug Rayner, and Patrick
McMillan. Join Patrick and Richard for a lively introduction to the book, the adventures
involved in completing the tome as well as the scientific advancements included as
we continue to document and understand the spectacular diversity of South Carolina.
10:45am – 11:00am Break
11:00am – 12:00pm Plenary #3 - Why the Southern Forest’s Deep Past is North America’s Future w/ Bill
Finch
You want to do something about climate change? Quit worrying about your gas stove
and start worrying about how much the rest of North America is going to need the diversity
of Southeastern forests, streams, and grasslands. Southern ecosystems are so rich
because they’ve been climate survivors over millions of years, and they’ll be key
to surviving the changes in climate and ecosystems the whole nation faces. At Paint
Rock Forest Research Center in the Southern Cumberlands, we’re exploring how every
gene will help determine the future of forests from the Gulf to Canada. And we’re
discovering that Southern forests can contribute to recovery of species already lost
from most of the country – American elms, butternuts, ash, for example – if we simply
recognize and share the South’s ancient genetic inheritance.
12:00pm – 1:15pm Lunch
1:30pm – 2:30pm Plenary #4 – Beauty of the Wild w/ Darrel Morrison
In this talk, based on Darrel’s book, “Beauty of the Wild”, he will talk about people
and places that have influenced/inspired him in his sixty-year career as a teacher
and designer of ecology-based landscape designs. We will look at naturally-evolving
landscapes—including some of his favorite Southeastern ones— and discuss the processes
and patterns occurring in them. And we will look at a variety of landscapes he has
designed during the last three decades: ranging from public gardens in Wisconsin,
Georgia, and New York, to private gardens in Connecticut and Montana. Along the
way, we will discuss the value of protecting prime natural areas both as reservoirs
of biological diversity and as models for designed landscapes.
2:30pm – 2:45pm Break
1A Control of Invasive Vegetation Using Manual and Mechanical Techniques w/ Toby Obenauer
In this presentation we will discuss some of the main invasive plants in the south
as well as new species and overlooked species and their impacts to the environment.
Next we will talk about herbicides, safe application and label reading followed by
detailed instructions on how to kill a plant and effective treatment options. Open
discussion and questions are encouraged during the presentation.
General Herbicide Training 2019
Treatment Recommendations 2020
1B The Life-Giving Landscape: Native Plants in Regenerative Design w/ Kristen
Haaf
How do we create landscapes where life thrives? This isn’t only a technical question
but also a spiritual one. In this session, we’ll explore how framing landscapes as
“life-giving” helps us sift through information overload and attune to our deeper
role as keystone species in our ecosystems. We will walk through a design process
for regenerating deadened landscapes and learn how this process of regeneration can
enrich our lives.
1C Gardening for Bats with Bat Conservation International w/ Erin Cord
We’ve all heard about gardening for pollinators, but did you know that incorporating
native plants can also support our local bat? Most of the bats in the United States
are insectivorous, and native plants support the insect populations that our bats
need to thrive. Anyone can make their yard or space more bat-friendly! In this talk
we will focus on our Gardening for Bats recommendations, the science behind this program,
and why bats need our help now more than ever. We hope to inspire many bat gardens
through this program and look forward to scaling nationwide!
1D Preserving Germplasm through Living Plant Collections w/ Jess Goehler
Plant exploration programs like the one at the Chicago Botanic Garden have been instrumental
in preserving germplasm for certain species that cannot be preserved through seed
banking. Due to habitat loss and climate change, many species are declining rapidly,
and botanical institutions play an instrumental role to ensure their future where
possible. The Chicago Botanic Garden collaborates with governmental and educational
entities to share resources on plant conservation and landscape performance. Active
participants in the plant expeditions have a genuine passion for plant preservation
and love sharing their unique experiences in plant collecting with other passionate
plants-people. This presentation aims to share personal experiences on collecting
that not only lead to great accomplishments but also making new friends and adventures
1E Azaleas of the Deep South w/ Patrick Thompson
Patrick Thompson’s presentation “Azaleas of the Deep South” will be an exciting deep
dive into the world of the azaleas native to the southeastern United States. Participants
will learn about how our native azaleas fit into the genus Rhododendron, and how the genus stretches our understanding of the definition of a species. The
deciduous azaleas provide us with a window on evolution going on around us as these
exciting plants continue to reveal new chapters in understanding of the barriers to
hybridization and the bridges that connect species in the wild. Thompson’s years building
a research collection have provided a myriad of opportunities to observe and photograph
a diversity of azalea forms and flowers in nature and in horticulture that will be
on full display in this eye-pleasing exhibition.
3:45pm – 4:00pm Break
2A Native Plants for the Vegetable Garden w/ Adam Bigelow
Native plants benefit us, our gardens, and the landscapes and ecosystems we depend
on. Learn about the benefits of native plants and the harm caused by invasive plants.
We will discuss how native plants can attract beneficial insects, beautify vegetable
and flower gardens, and provide nutrition to the dinner plate, and help fill all of
the roles that plants provide to our vegetable gardens and landscapes.
2B Foothills Land Conservancy: Preservation with a Promise w/ Shelby Sanders
It's no secret that the beloved and biodiverse lands of the southeastern US are under
constant threat from an array of anthropogenic impacts. Far too many species of threatened
birds, plants, insects, and other wildlife are losing ground as more and more crucial
habitat is lost to development and land conversion. But with over 85% of land in
the southeast being privately owned, how can we connect landowners and resources to
have a significant positive impact towards regional conservation goals? Shelby Lyn
will provide an overview of conservation easements and how landowners and land trusts
partner to protect land in perpetuity, and will highlight several FLC success stories
featuring interesting species and their habitats across the region.
2C Restoring Longleaf Pine for a Sustainable Future w/ Lisa Lord
Longleaf pine forests once covered more than 90 million acres across the southern
United States. Conversion to agriculture and other land uses, development, and fire
suppression reduced the ecosystem to less than 3 million acres by the early 1900s.
The longleaf pine ecosystem is a well-known biodiversity hotspot, rich in both plant
and wildlife diversity. This talk will explore some of the other co-benefits of longleaf
pine forests, including carbon and water benefits, and why longleaf pine forests are
well-positioned for a more challenging future ahead.
2D Restoration of Two Carolina Bays w/ Richard D. Porcher Jr.
Richard will discuss the restoration of two Carolina Bays, unusual coastal plain geological
features known for hosting very diverse flora and fauna. One bay is on Porcher’s farm
and the other on land owned by the South Carolina Native Plant Society. Porcher’s
bay, on Pocotaligo Farm in Clarendon County, has been under restoration since 1990.
Today, the bay supports a diverse wetland depression with a mix of fifty+ vascular
plants. The SCNPS recently acquired Kingsburg Bay in Florence County, originally a
wetland depression that had become overgrown through mismanagement. Today the bay
is being restored, and we'll look at some of the processes and any early progress.
2E. The Biocultural Promise of Native Plants in Homesteads, Farms and Public & Private
Spaces w/ Chris Sermons.
What started off as a hunting retreat where fields were sown for game species has
evolved into a farm preserve that focuses on promoting biodiversity and growing local
food. Hear the story of land that inspires and transforms people who then reimagine
and reprioritize what the land can be. This presentation is a case study of Bio Way
Farm and will explore topics such as natural history, organic farming, permaculture,
rewilding and more.
5:30pm – 6:45pm Dinner on Ramsey Concourse
7:30pm – 8:30pm Plenary #5 - Moths and our Native Flora w/ Lenny Lampel
For the last decade, Natural Resources staff and local naturalists have spent many
late nights in the nature preserves located in and around Charlotte, NC as part of
a coordinated effort to document the diversity of moth species in Mecklenburg County.
This presentation will provide an introduction into this diversity, as well as the
connections between moths and our native plant species, and the important roles these
insects play in our natural communities. Also highlighted will be Mecklenburg County’s
growing moth collection which is housed in the Dr. James F. Matthews Center for Biodiversity
Studies. Learn about some of the challenges to identification and the growing number
of resources that make learning about these insects possible. From “Moth Nights”
to National Moth Week events, an increasing number of people are getting interested
in “mothing”. Now is your chance to discover what the fascination in these insects
is all about.
9:00pm – 10:00pm Networking at Norton Hall
7:00am – 8:00am Breakfast on Ramsey Concourse
7:30am – 5:30am Conference Check-in / Information Desk – Ramsey Tuck Tunnel
8:30am – 11:30am Morning Walks, Workshops & Field Trips
All Walks will meet on the Ramsey Area Floor in front of the Bookstore.
Walk 1 – Campus Tree Walk with Geoffrey Neal
This walk is for folks with an interest in learning more about identifying common
trees in the landscape. Together we will check out the many species of native (and
nonnative) woody plants found on the WCU campus. We will discuss identification of
trees in the landscape as well as general horticultural and arboricultural practices
that are essential for a healthy plant community. Time will be given to talk about
the ecology of the built environment where these trees now find themselves as well
as a critical examination of this environment as it relates to overall tree health
and function. Questions and comments will be encouraged throughout. Hike difficulty
rating = 2 Moderate (about 2 miles total, slow pace, mostly paved surfaces, some steep
slopes and grassy areas).
Walk 2 – Cullowhee Creek Stream Restoration w/ George Morris
We will have a short presentation about the pre-construction conditions, construction,
and habitat improvements along Cullowhee Creek and then take a walk on the stream
restoration project that dissects the WNC campus. The project was started during the
summer of 2005 and construction was completed during the summer of 2006. We will discuss
the structures and construction methods, and explore how vegetation plays a role in
stream restoration. Limit = 20. Hike difficulty rating = 1, easy.
CLOSED - Walk 3 – Woody Ethnobotny Walk w/ Marc Williams
Spend a class learning more about the food, medicine and craft uses of woody plants.
We will take a walk around the WCU campus and practice ways to systematically identify
trees, shrubs and vines by their bark, ecotypes, flowers, fruit and growing conditions.
Common and obscure sustainable uses for woody plants that may support overall health,
well-being and sustenance will also be discussed. The connection between woody plants
and other lifeforms such as birds butterflies and fungal species will be an additional
topic of conversation. The possible use of exotic invasive woodies as one potential
means of control will round out our discussion.
CLOSED - Friday Workshop 1 - Native Plant Propagation, Theory & Practice w/ Emily Driskill
Join horticulture professional Emily Driskill to learn about propagation methods fornative
plant species. We will cover seed and vegetative methods, and how to decide which
approach to take. The seed discussion will cover sustainable collecting practices,
protocols for conserving genetic biodiversity, cleaning, stratification, and sowing.
Vegetative methods will cover stem cuttings, layering, root cuttings, live stakes,
and division. There will be demonstrations of most vegetative methods, and everyone
will have a chance to make a woody stem cutting to take home. We will discuss ways
to adapt methods to various production scales. You will leave with several stem cuttings,
a list of supplies needed to start your own project, and a trusty compilation of references.
Please bring clean & sharp pruners or scissors if you have them. Limited to 20 participants.
Friday Workshop 2: Cultivate Your Writing w/ Margot Lester
Get actionable feedback on your writing (articles, research papers, grants, marketing,
fiction, reference, creative non-fiction) from a professional writing coach. As a
group, we review the 6 traits of effective writing and the 9 revision strategies that
instantly level up your work. Then we have work time to apply the strategies that
resonated most and meet with Margot for one-to-one coaching and feedback. We end with
a group session that includes time for sharing your work (optional) and an Ask Me
Anything lightning round. After the workshop, you have a stronger piece with more
impact and we have a writing community that continues after the Conference.
Friday Workshop 3: Sustainable Landscaping w/ Laura Lee Rose
This presentation will cover the basic steps in creating a beautiful and functional
landscape. By using low maintenance native plants participants can discover techniques
to determine site conditions, climate, and microclimates while conserving and protecting
delicate ecosystems and plant communities. It will also include the importance of
best landscaping practices: buffers, rain gardens, and local sourcing of materials.
CLOSED - Friday Workshop 4: Make More Plants in Your Own Backyard! w/ Gail Barton
This interactive hands-on workshop will focus on basic propagation techniques for
herbaceous wildflowers. Since biodiversity is such an important part of native plant
gardening, we will concentrate mostly on seed propagation. We will handle samples
of many types of seed and discuss harvesting techniques and timing. Participants
will process fruit to get clean plant-able seed. We will review seed treatment options
and techniques for storing or planting seed and discuss where and how to successfully
grow young seedlings. We will then take cuttings, divide plants and discuss timing
and follow up care. The instructor will recommend pots, soil, plant labels, irrigation
& winter protection that would be useful in a small commercial or backyard nursery.
Participants should wear comfortable clothes that can handle some dirt. Please bring
a pair of sharp scissors and lots of questions.
Friday Workshop 5 - Introduction to Graminoid Identification w/ Scott Ward
This workshop is designed to give students a broad introduction to graminoid identification.
Graminoids include grasses, sedges, and rushes, and account for a large level of diversity
in the southeastern United States. This half-day workshop will be lab-based for a
good proportion of the time, but we will go for a short walk around campus to implement
concepts learned in lab. Students can wear casual clothing as walking will be easy
(1).
IMPORTANT: Friday Field Trips will depart from the backside of the Ramsey Center (Concourse Level) immediately following breakfast at 8:30am. These trips are $45.00 each.
CLOSED - Friday Field Trip 1 – Pitillo Family Preserve w/ Dan Pitillo
The narrow Cane Creek valley of north Cullowhee is a rustic home and adjacent Highlands-Cashiers
Land Trust. The trust includes Nodding Trillium Garden 20-acre Pittillo Family Preserve.
PFP is situated beside Cane Creek. NTG has a 350-yard trail and includes 50 labeled
& selected species listed to observe in the narrow hillside ravine. The NTG footpath
follows the small stream with 53 yr. Shortia and ~ 10 yr. Rubacer odoratus introductions.
This trail crosses over a narrow east-south ridge for introduced trillium, sedges,
ferns, Doghobble, etc. intergraded into the native Rich Cove Hardwoods. Visitors may
spend time on their own or join the 0.8 mile hike up Henson Ridge 260 feet elevation
and move from basic Rich Cove to more acidic Oak Hickory Forest.
CLOSED - Friday Field Trip 2 - Slow Sauntering at Pinnacle Park w/ Nadine Phillips
Nurture your well-being with a Forest Therapy experience as we return to the Pinnacle
Park Forest Therapy Trail. This inviting woodland space is nestled by two streams
with abundant wildflowers, and lush understory, as well as ample rocks and openings
to view the sky. The atmosphere is ideal for sinking into harmony with nature. After
a brief opening, your certified Forest Therapy guide will offer subtle means to help
reorient the senses and activate the body’s natural relaxation response. You will
then be free to seek out a spot to engage your own solo connection for a time before
rejoining the group. The circle will be open for sharing before closing remarks. Registrants
will receive an orientation email beforehand to help prepare for this outing. Pinnacle
Park Certified Forest Therapy Trail is .45 miles with 153 feet in elevation gain.
This walk is rated Moderate and limited to 12 participants.
CLOSED - Friday Field Trip 3 – Vertical Bog w/ Adam Bigelow
One of the most special and iconic spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Vertical Bog
is roadside seepage area unlike any other, filled with special, rare and endemic plants
that exist right along the parkway across from an overlook. Carnivorous Sundews, Grass-of-Parnassus,
Sticky Tofieldia, and five different species of st John's wort can all be seen at
this short and easy walk.
CLOSED - Friday Field Trip 4 - Birding Cullowhee with Dawn Sherry and Tom Tribble
Western North Carolina is an excellent place for people who enjoy bird watching!
Over 200 birds make their home here year-round, and another 80 species migrate through
the Southern Appalachian mountains. Join us a fun walk, learning to identify birds
by sight and sound. Location to be determined. Tips and tricks for bird identification
will be covered as well as planting ideas for native plants to attract them. Handouts
will be provided. We recommend you wear good walking shoes and bring a bird identification
guide, binoculars and a water bottle for the best experience. Limit = 20 Hike difficulty
rating = moderate
8:30am - 12:00pm Exploring, Networking on your own, Plant Sales
12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch
12:00pm - 1:00pm Lunch-And-Learn Presentation: Investigating Cultural Management of Rivercane in Riparian Restoration with Alyssa Quan
1:00pm – 1:40pm Book and Plant Sales
1:00pm – 1:40pm Poster Session
1:40pm – 1:45pm Announcements
1:45pm – 2:00pm Tom Dodd Jr. Award
2:00 – 3:00pm Plenary Session 6 – “Venus Flytrap Champions” – Engaging Landowners to Protect Rare
Species on their Land w/ Julie Moore
Although the Venus flytrap is known worldwide, its total range is limited to within
80 miles of Wilmington, NC. In 2015 it was petitioned for listing as an endangered
species. Status surveys in 2019 and 2020 confirmed extant populations and population
numbers. Although populations occur on federal lands, for example Camp Lejeune Marine
Base, the Croatan National Forest, and conservation lands like The Nature Conservancy's
Green Swamp Preserve, many populations persist on private property. "Venus Flytrap
Champions" was created to encourage landowners to recognize and commit to managing
and preserving Venus flytraps and other rare species on their property. By contacting
the Venus Flytrap Champions program (venusflytrapchampions.org), landowners will be provided information on habitat management needs and agencies
to contact for assistance. For their efforts, landowners will be recognized as “Champions.”
If enough populations are appropriately managed and conserved, protection under the
Endangered Act may not be needed.
3:00pm – 3:30pm Break
3:30pm – 4:30pm Plenary #7 - How Louisiana Created an Inspirational Certified Habitat Program w/
Tammany Baumgarten & Phyllis Griffard
Created in 2019, the Louisiana Certified Habitat program has over 230 participants
statewide and has helped amass an amazingly rich catalog of native habitats under
stewardship in that state. The program has been a media-magnet that is bringing all
important attention to the ecological deficiencies of the average landscape and the
vast benefits and beauties of native gardens. The development of this Louisiana-specific
certification program helps connect LNPS and its regional affiliates to the native
plant base in their regions and incentivizes future and budding native plant gardeners
and growers while giving them practical tools to get there. LCH is a warming success
story with inspiration and lessons for any organization looking to make similar strides
in their area.
4:30pm – 5:30pm Book and Plan Sales
5:00pm Silent Auction Closes
6:00pm – 7:00pm Picnic at WCU Picnic Area
7:00pm – 8:30pm Talent Show
9:00pm – 11:00pm Moth Watch with Lenny Lampel at Picnic Area
8:30pm – Midnight Music / Dancing
7:00am – 8:00am Breakfast on Ramsey Concourse
8:30am – 9:00am Plants of Promise (Main Stage)
9:00am – 10:30am Plant and book Sales
10:30am – 11:30am Plenary 8 - Restoring a Historic Wetland: Bowyer farm w/ Brian Jorg
When 630 acres of agricultural land was donated to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical
Garden, we discovered that it was originally a wetland. This presentation will look
at the restoration work that has increased the value of the habitat, and the wildlife
diversity. We will discuss the measures taken to accomplish this, both the successes
and challenges. In addition, we will look at some of the methods to measure the success
of the overall project. With the focus on birds, reptiles, amphibians, pollinators,
and other species, we have tried for an all-encompassing management plan to make this
property not just a green space but aim to protect it as an ecosystem.
11:30am – 11:45am Break
11:45am – 12:45pm Plenary #9 - Common and Not So Common Natives for the Home Landscape w/ Mike Berkley
Join Mike as he discusses plants that are available from native plant nurseries, like
the ones in our vendor hall, and how to use them in your own landscape. Many of these
plants may not be available in your local garden centers, but nurseries specializing
in native plants do grow them. So let's support our local growers, and after his
talk, head on down to the vendor booths to see what's available for your landscape.
11:30am – 1:00pm Final Announcements / Final Plant and Book Sales
1:00pm Conference Closes
The purpose of the Cullowhee Conference is to increase interest in and knowledge of propagating and preserving native southeastern plant species in the landscape. Past participants of the conference have included landscape architects, commercial nursery operators, garden club members, botanists, and horticulturists from state highway departments, universities, native plant societies, botanical gardens, and arboretums. Both professionals and laypersons will gain valuable knowledge from the informative field trips, lectures, and workshops.
The program schedule allows for informal sessions where participants can exchange ideas. We encourage you to make good use of this opportunity. Information and materials can be displayed and exchanged in each residence hall lobby. Please bring materials you wish to share.
The conference is held at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Cullowhee is located between the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge mountains, approximately fifty miles west of Asheville. Close to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cullowhee is in an ideal location for anyone with an interest in nature.