Spring from the Mountains to the Coast
Over the past week and a half, we’ve held Educator Treks to both the mountains and the coastal plain of North Carolina. From May 2-4 one group explored the signs of spring in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and took part in ongoing citizen science projects at the Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center. And on May 7-8 and May 10-11, two different groups explored the swamp ecosystem along the Roanoke River in eastern North Carolina.
Both places are home to a diversity of species and habitats. The Smokies are well-known for beautiful spring wildflower displays and incredible salamander diversity. Large swaths of protected bottomland hardwood swamp along the Roanoke River provide habitat for a remarkable number of migratory and nesting birds as well as numerous species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. In each location, educators spent time closely observing and learning about the components of the ecosystem. And quiet time…
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