The BRNN`s first event of 2019 was on Tuesday, February 12, 5:30 -7:00 at the West Asheville Public Library. Michael Skinner, Balsam Mountain Trust’s Executive Director gave a live birds of prey demonstration. This event was also sponsored in part by Friends of West Asheville Library. Michael`s companions were a screech owl, red-tailed hawk, barn owl and an eagle. It was a fun and informative evening!

The Balsam Mountain Trust is a local, non-profit whose mission is the stewardship of the natural and cultural resources on Balsam Mountain Preserve and the Blue Ridge Mountain region, through effective land management practices, scientific research, and environmental education.  The Trust has earned special distinction as a place where non-releasable birds of prey are taken in, cared for, and then utilized as wildlife educational ambassadors to local schools and civic groups.

Marci Spencer, what it takes to be a dedicated naturalist.

When we think of American naturalist authors people like John Muir, Henry David Thoreau and Racheal Carson, usually come to mind. We, in Western North Carolina, are fortunate to have our own representative, Marci Spencer. She is this year’s recipient of the Blue Ridge Naturalist Network (BRNN), Naturalist of the year. To those of us representing the BRNN this is a special occasion as Marci is the very first recipient of the award who has earned her credentials through the Blue Ridge Naturalist program at the NC Arboretum. Marci is now joining our other prestigious award winners, Jesse Wilder, George & Elizabeth Ellison, Scott Dean who have all been recognized for their contributions to the larger community. Read more

On the 1st of October, 10 hardy hikers met at Newfound Gap for our BRNN high altitude hike.  The weather was beautiful if a bit foggy at times.  Our original destination of Clingman’s Dome was off limits due to the search for a missing hiker.  Instead we set off from Newfound Gap at about 5,040 ft. elevation east along the Appalachian Trail headed to the “Jump Off” about 1000 feet higher.  Local naturalist Ed Kelly lent his high elevation expertise to the group, assisted where necessary by Scott Dean.  The Jump Off proved a marvellous lunch location, with periodic glimpses of distant peaks through the fog.  The return trip progressed more quickly, largely due to it being mostly downhill.  In total our group covered 6.75 miles, and ended the day tired but content.

Photos by Randy Richardson