Adult Field Course: Service-Learning Course: Managing Non-native Species
Join us to learn about non-native invasive species that can threaten our native flora and fauna and see different management strategies in action. After exploring the techniques Grandfather Mountain Natural Resources staff use to promote native species in the park, we’ll head into the woods for hands-on experience removing invasive plants. Participants will learn non-native species identification, management practices that can be used at home and how some invasive “weeds” can have practical (even culinary) uses!
Leigh Ann Emery has served as an Interpretive Park Guide for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation since 2022. Originally from Charlotte, N.C., Leigh Ann graduated from Lees-McRae College with a degree in Wildlife Biology in 2019. She is an NAI Certified Interpretive Guide and a Certified North Carolina Environmental Educator. Leigh Ann has an immense passion for all aspects of nature, often spending her time exploring Grandfather Mountain and sharing that passion with anyone who will listen.
Will Bennett graduated from Appalachian State University with a Masters in Geography in 2024 and surveyed the Town of Boone property for invasive plants to create an invasives management plan for the town. As Research Coordinator at GMSF, he monitors invasive and endangered species and works with the Natural Resources Dept to treat invasive plants.
Program Itinerary
10:00am – 11:30am – Welcome & Intro to Invasives in Classroom
11:30am – 12:30pm – Natural Resources Demonstration of Insect Management
12:30pm – 1:15pm – Lunch
1:15pm – 3:30pm – Invasive plant pulling
3:30pm – 4:00pm – Return to Classroom, Wrap-up, & Evaluations
Tickets
This event costs $40 for general admission and $34 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax.
Registration opens on this page on March 25, at 10 a.m. Limited to 12 participants.
What’s included?
Your program cost includes admission into the park, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees.
Tips are not accepted for field courses. However, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program.
General Clothing List
Much of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing, equipment and footwear are very important. Bring hiking or work boots as well as work gloves that you like to wear. We will provide work gloves for those who do not have a pair.
Equipment:
Daypack with enough room to carry extra clothing, water, lunch, camera, etc.
Water Bottle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required
Notebook and pencil
Refunds/Cancellations
Adult Field Courses generally sell out and have a waiting list associated with the event. If you cannot attend the field course that you are registered for, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration, please call 828-833-6332 or email judi@grandfather.com.
We ask that individuals who are sick with any illness to stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants, our staff, and the field course instructors – refunds will be granted to these individuals.
