Program areas at Highlands Biological Foundation
Highlands Nature Center In 2023, the Highlands Biological Foundation (HBF) made a resonant impact via the Highlands Nature Center. Two dedicated full-time Education Specialists curated an array of year-round educational programs for Highlands residents and visitors. These initiatives were rooted in experiential, place-based learning, focusing on the incredible biodiversity of the southern Appalachian region. HBF staff welcomed over 14,000 visitors to the Nature Center to engage with exhibits, interact with animal ambassadors, and partake in complimentary daily programs. Additional learning experiences included special events, enriching summer day camps, the annual Zahner Conservation Lecture Series, and other family-centered programs. HBF Education Specialists extended their influence through outreach efforts, crafting impactful programming for organizations
southern Appalachian region. HBF also awarded funding to Macon County Schools STEM program and Highlands Schools greenhouse project. Research In 2023, the Highlands Biological Foundation awarded Grant-in-Aid research grants to individuals conducting regional research while in residence at the Highlands Biological Station. Additionally, HBF provided funding for summer Research Assistants to assist Highlands Biological Station and UNC-Chapel Hill staff with ongoing research projects studying birds, microplastics, bats, small mammals, and more. HBF awarded $4,950 in funding to Blue Ridge Bird Observatory (formerly Southern Appalachian Raptor Research) to continue the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) research program at the Station for the fourth consecutive year. Finally, HBF awarded $10,500 in funding to the BatPack citizen science project which aims to monitor bat populations along southern portions of the Appalachian Trail.
within Macon and Jackson counties including the Literacy and Learning Center, the Gordon Center, the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau, and more, as well as enhancing regional events. This harmonious blend of immersive education and community engagement underscores HBFs dedication to nurturing a profound connection with the natural world. 4 summer Naturalists were hired to support educational programming and nature camps through the 2023 summer season. Education In 2023, the Highlands Biological Foundation awarded $100,000 to UNC-Chapel Hills Institute for the Environment program at the Highlands Biological Station (HBS) for the third consecutive year. This program hosts a cohort of approximately 15 students at HBS each fall as they take a full slate of courses and get hands-on experience conducting research independently and as a group while learning about human impacts in the