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The Blue Ridge Province of the Southern
Appalachians is an area of incredible beauty, diversity of life
and culture. The Blue Ridge Naturalist offers classes, field
studies, and workshops designed to provide residents of western
North Carolina with an opportunity to learn more about the
natural world and cultural heritage of our mountains. This
educational program was developed and is coordinated by the
North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement at the University
of North Carolina at Asheville and is open to adults of all
ages.
The program will allow
participants to:
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Have fun exploring the natural world with like-minded people
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Learn from regional naturalists about the biodiversity
and ecology of the Blue Ridge
through participation in outdoor education and classroom
studies
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Appreciate the cultural heritage of the region and learn
how the geography and environment have shaped the folklore
and culture of the mountains
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Participate in service opportunities as educators and
hands-on workers in activities that enhance the environment
of western North Carolina
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Become educated advocates for a sustainable future for
the Asheville area and all of western North Carolina
Course content in the Blue Ridge Naturalist is based upon
current research and literature and taught by experts in each
field of study. Participants may choose to take all classes and
fieldwork necessary to receive a
certificate of completion
or elect individual courses that meet their particular area of
interest.
Classes include botany, vertebrate zoology,
geology/meteorology, ecology, various field studies, and how to
convey this knowledge to others. Field studies cover such topics
as wildflowers and trees, birds and butterflies, forest
habitats, rocks and minerals, reptiles and water systems.
For more information or to register for classes
contact: Mike McCreary at 828-251-6198 or <mmccrear@unca.edu>
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