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

 

 

*Note change of date*

Those pesky procrastinating pawpaws have only just started to ripen. To be sure of getting enough for ice cream and eating them fresh, we are delaying the party one more week.  It will happen on  Friday September 14, 4:00-6:00 PM at Charlotte Caplan’s house in Asheville.

So if you haven’t already signed up, you can still do so.  We’ll be:
– Eating fresh pawpaws
– Sampling homemade pawpaw ice cream
– Learning all about pawpaws from educator & organic farmer Kim Bailey of Milkweed Meadows Farm
– Holding a raffle for pawpaw seedlings ready to plant
– Relaxing on a rocking-chair porch in leafy Montford

This event is for BRNN Subscribing members only.  Existing members can sign up by emailing Charlotte at: ccaplannc1[at]juno.com. If you are not a member you can join NOW by downloading the Membership form 2018-3 and mailing it in with your subscription. No applications accepted on the day – we’ll have our hands full of pawpaws!