Excursion: Rich Mountain Bald at the Tater Hill Plant Conservation Preserve, Watauga County

Program

Excursion: Rich Mountain Bald at the Tater Hill Plant Conservation Preserve, Watauga County

with Matt Estep and Ben Brewer

The registration period has closed for this event.

Date: Saturday, June 18, 2022; inclement weather date: Saturday, June 25 - please also reserve this date when registering

Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Fee: $60.00 ($54 members of either NCBG or FoPC)

One of our state's biological treasures (Gray's Lily) is disappearing from the landscape for a variety of reasons. We are working to collect demographic and genetic data across the species range to help inform conservation action to save this unique Southern Appalachian species. Join the researchers on a trek to the top of Rich Mountain Bald at the Tater Hill Plant Conservation Preserve.

Transportation to the preserve is not included. Driving and parking directions will be sent to participants closer to the event date.

What to bring: Day pack with a brown bag lunch/snacks, plenty of water. We'll see stunning views and beautiful plants, so a camera is also recommended!

What to wear: Sturdy shoes/hiking boots, sun protective clothing.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden and the Friends of Plant Conservation have partnered to offer several excursions and Lunchbox Talks that highlight some of our state's rarest plants and natural areas.

This event is a partnership between NCBG and Friends of Plant Conservation.

About the Program Leaders

Ben Brewer is a graduate student pursuing his Master’s degree at Appalachian State University. He began working in Dr. Estep’s lab during his junior year, meeting and falling in love with Gray’s Lily the following summer. He completed an undergraduate honors thesis collecting demographic data on Gray’s Lily which has grown into his current Master’s project. Ben is seeking a career in conservation of rare plants.

Matt Estep, Ph.D, is Associate Professor of Biology at Appalachian State University. His research team focuses on the genetics of rare and endangered plants in Western North Carolina. Dr. Estep is also the preserve steward for the Tater Hill Plant Preserve.