Here’s the press release from RiverLink:
RiverLink is proud to offer the opportunity for everyone to experience the beauty and knowledge nature has to offer firsthand. The Southern Appalachian Mountains are host to around 50 species of salamanders, attracting scientists from all over the world to study these remarkable animals.
RiverLink feels very lucky to have the opportunity to help protect and improve a region with such a marvel of flora and fauna diversity. That is why RiverLink has developed a program that will share the beauty and splendor of the region through a series of guided nature walks along the Wilma Dykeman RiverWay.
The 2012 series took off with a bang in February with “winter tree ID”. The events attracted 47 attendees who came from far and wide, seeking dormant season dendrology knowledge and fun. The nature walks will extend through August, with a new theme each month.
The theme for March is “On the Lookout for Amphibians.” Groups will meet at the RiverLink office, located at 170 Lyman Street in the river arts district, at 10:00AM on March 3rd and 3:00PM on March 17th. Part 1 of each day will consist of a presentation outlining common species of amphibians found in our area, and defining characteristics of each. There will also be an audio presentation on frog and toad calls. Part 2 of each day will consist of a drive over to Bent Creek Experimental Forest to go on the hunt for these beautiful creatures. Be prepared to get dirty while searching through the leaf litter on the hill sides and in the streams. Care will be given to leave the forest floor unaltered, and to safely release each salamander where it was found.
These outings are free and open to the public. They are designed to be beneficial and of great interest to beginners and experts alike.
This year’s program has been developed and is being led by Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Worth McAlister, an AmeriCorps member, and will be executed with the help of RiverLink staff, area experts, and volunteers. For the full schedule of themes, dates, times, and locations see below or please visit http://www.riverlink.org/walktour.asp, or for any other questions regarding the program, contact Worth McAlister at worth@riverlink.org, or call at (828) 252-8474 x 17.
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