4th Annual BRDC Middle School Science Fair

Four years now for the BRDC Grayson County Middle School Science Fair!. From kick-off in September to one Friday in December, the students prepare for this event. Encouraged and supported by the staff at Grayson County Schools, hosted by Independence Middle School and run by Blue Ridge Discovery Center, this event supports our youth in their challenge to grasp engineering and scientific methodology. They work hard and it is exemplified in the results of great projects.

Judges step in Thursday evening prior to the event to begin scoring the project’s display boards. They return Friday morning to meet the students face to face and score their presentation. These combined scores determine the winners. Parents, family, and friends are invited to attend this community event so students can share their accomplishments. This year’s winners are:

Carson Green, Conner Huffman, Grayson Highlands School; Let's eat Candy; Grand Prize and Best in School

Kinsey Parks, Independence Middle School; Gingerbreadman and Parachutes; 1st Place 6th grade and Best in School

Jaycee Sutherland, Casey Redifer, Sarah Hale, Independence Middle School; Do Sheep Grow More Muscle in a Field or Barn; 1st Place 7th grade

Shannity Roberts, Independence Middle School; What does Sugary Drink do to Your Pearly White Teeth; 2nd Place 6th grade

Jason Smith, Grayson Highlands School; What Breaks the Paper Towel the Fastest; 2nd Place 7th grade

James Davis, Grayson Highlands School; Moldy Mess; 3rd Place 6th grade

Luke Walls, J. T. Porter, Independence Middle School; Homemade Dog Wheelchair; 3rd Place 7th grade

Shawn McKnight, Fries School; Foil Boat Experiment; Best in School

BRDC is very thankful for all the community support for this great event. We could not have done it without the help of our fantastic volunteer judges: Ms. Deborah Greif, Mr. Travis Belton, Dr. John Kovacich, Dr. Bill Hylander, Ms. Brenda Bonk, Mr. John Fant, Ms. Niki Weir, Dr. Robert Benish, Dr. Ken Kreuzer, Dr. Beverly Fermor, Ms. Heidi Breedlove, Mr. Keith and Mrs. Pat Andrews, Mr. Roald Kirby, Ms. Michelle Pridgeon, Mr. Jerry Kandies, Dr. Linda Hylander, and Mr. Tom Simpson. Many hours were spent reviewing all the 133 projects. Many heartfelt thanks to you all!

BRDC Receives Virginia Wildlife Grant for Freshwater Snorkeling Program

Fish, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, macro-invertebrates, and more call Southwest Virginia watersheds home. BRDC’s guided freshwater snorkeling program gets youth unplugged, outside, and immersed in the cool streams and rivers of the Blue Ridge. This fascinating program highlights the organisms living beneath the surface and allows for a safe, non-intrusive engagement with aquatic species.

Blue Ridge Discovery Center has been providing a snorkeling program for several years with limited equipment. Thanks to support by the 2019 Virginia Wildlife Grant Program through a partnership between the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Foundation of Virginia, BRDC will have the means to engage more youth in our freshwater snorkeling program.

Hands-on, experiential education programs such as this connect our youth to the environment and establish the foundation to protect and sustain the integrity of our natural resources. By introducing more young people to the wonders of the Blue Ridge, we can inspire a budding generation of naturalists to be active stewards of the place we call home.

Thank you for your support!

Crayfish in Big Laurel Creek at the BRDC Field Station.

Stonefly larva in in Big Laurel Creek.

Sculpin in Big Laurel Creek.

New Phone Number

Blue Ridge Discovery Center has a new phone number:

(276) 388-3155

Please update your records. Our previous office number, (276) 293-1232, will no longer be in use after December 1, 2019.

Carrier pigeons and smoke signals may also be used to get our attention, but may be a bit less effective.

Happy Holidays!

Give the Gift . . . of a Toilet?

Do toilets and door knobs make good gifts? We think so!

This holiday season, when you give the value of one of the restoration items listed below to Blue Ridge Discovery Center, you are making an impact for generations to come. What’s more, these contributions will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Cabell Foundation in support of BRDC’s Capital Campaign for the Center.

Whether you’re fond of the bark siding or cherish the thought of restoring an historic window that will soon overlook children observing butterflies in a native plant community or studying wetland ecology, there is an element and donation value to match your level of support.

When you visit our Donation Page, consider giving the value* of one of the following restoration items for yourself or in honor of a loved one:

·       2 Square Feet of Floor Refinishing $5

·       Square Foot of Staircase Refinishing $10

·       Door Hinge $15

·       Set of Drawer Pulls $20

·       Door Knob $25

·       Square Foot of Plaster Restoration $30

·       Pendant Lamp $35

·       Panel of Bark Siding $50

·       Wooden Chair $75

·       Linear Foot of Exterior Hand Railing $125

·       Dining Table $200

·       High-efficiency Toilet $300

·       Bunk Bed $400

·       Interior Door Restoration $500

·       Window Restoration $600

·       Front Door Restoration $1,500

·       Species Room Sponsorship $10,000**

*These values represent the cost of items and services, and are being used for symbolic purposes only.

**Anyone interested in sponsoring a Species Room is encouraged to contact Keith Andrews at 276.237.3654.

Thank you for your support!

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BRDC is also participating in Giving Tuesday in support of the Capital Campaign for the Center.

Help us spread the word by sharing our website or hosting a Facebook fundraiser on Tuesday, December 3rd!

Twin County Community Foundation Supports BRDC in Youth Outside Initiative

Through the generous support of the Twin County Community Foundation (TCCF), Blue Ridge Discovery Center will be launching a new Youth Outside Health & Education Initiative in 2020. The purpose of this new initiative is to address the physical, mental, and cognitive health of students in Grayson and Carroll Counties and the City of Galax. The Youth Outside Health & Education Initiative will engage 25 participating classes, approximately 500 students aged 6-11, in outdoor activities through observational high-elevation hiking, reflective field journaling, and natural history education.

With the increase in technology available today, children are spending less time outdoors and less time engaged in physical activity. A sedentary indoor lifestyle is also linked to an overall decline in mental health among adolescents. Hiking in natural areas, especially in dynamic mountainous terrain, provides positive physical and mental health benefits while encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

Pairing physical activity with hands-on, experiential learning allows students to become fully immersed and actively engaged in their learning, with tools to promote critical thinking and creativity, and to accelerate learning. When students share their findings, they are more likely to retain information processed and apply it to situations beyond that experience. Further, Blue Ridge Discovery Center’s lessons are aligned with the Virginia Department of Education Standards of Learning. By providing programming outside of the classroom, BRDC can effectively introduce students to an infinite number of experiences and topics that they find inspiring. This level of ownership contributes to deeper appreciation and understanding, and can heighten enthusiasm for learning.

Through the Youth Outside Health & Education Initiative, TCCF and BRDC aim to promote physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being and instill a love of the place they call home. In meeting BRDC’s goal to inspire youth to discover new areas of interest, we can collectively help this generation to live an active and healthy lifestyle.

This Initiative is also made possible by matching funds through the Harris and Frances Block Foundation.

Thank you for your support!   

First in the Field

Sixty-five 5th grade students and their teachers shared a full day of hands-on activities with BRDC staff and guides. Rhea Valley Elementary School is the first school group to visit our Center and Field Station for a day of experiential learning.

The primary function of BRDC revolves around education. We believe that hands-on activities in the field are the most powerful way to reach students. This hands-on, experiential learning allows students to become fully immersed and actively engaged, with tools to promote critical thinking and creativity. Enhancing lessons from the classroom with experiential learning outdoors is vital to our mission to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship and redefine our youth’s relationship with nature.

We are proud to have been given the opportunity to Explore, Discover, and Share our Center, Field Station, and wonders of the Blue Ridge with Mr. Eskridge’s science classes.

November & December Events

Constellations, crafts, cocoa, and chickadees. Join us as we round out the year!

Astronomy Night

Saturday, November 9th, 5:30 pm

Join BRDC astronomer Evan Worrell for an exploration of the stars. Study visible planets through the telescope and learn about the depths of the universe through Evan’s knowledge of constellations.

Come at 5:30 pm to enjoy a Dutch oven taco bake ($5) around a toasty fire! Stargazing will begin at 6:30 pm. Please consider the weather and dress in warm layers to enjoy a fall evening under the stars.

Interested in joining us? Please Register Here. Additional information will be sent to registered participants prior to the event. This event is FREE to members. The fee for non-members is just $10. Not a member yet? You can easily Become a Member and join the BRDC community!

Space is limited.

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Nature’s Little Elf Workshop

Saturday, December 7th, 1:00-4:00 pm, Ages: 3-15

It’s crafts and cocoa galore at our Nature’s Little Elf Workshop! After picking an elf name, children will have the opportunity to get hands-on with a variety of seasonal crafts. Elf costumes welcome! Activities will take place both indoors and out, so please dress warmly.

Interested in joining us? Please Register Here. Additional information will be sent to registered participants prior to the event. This event is FREE to members. The fee for non-members is just $10 per child. Not a member yet? You can easily Become a Member and join the BRDC community!

Space is limited.

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New River Christmas Bird Count

Saturday, December 14th, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

The Christmas Bird Count, organized by the Audubon Society, is a North American citizen science survey that runs from December 14th through January 5th each year. Information gathered during these counts helps us to better understand the health and status of bird populations.

Blue Ridge Discovery Center will be heading up the New River CBC once again. All ages and skill levels are welcome to participate! We’ll make a full day of it, coming together to share stories over lunch before finishing out the afternoon.

Interested in joining us? Please Register Here. Additional information will be sent to registered participants prior to the event. This event is free to all. Thank you for contributing to science!

Seeking Applications for Facilities Manager

 Position Announcement

Job Title: Facilities Manager
Hours: Part-time - 2 days/week
Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Pay: Based on experience

Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Facilities Manager and help create and maintain one of the most exciting projects in Southwest Virginia. This is an opportunity to fill a vital role in the success of our mission while working at the base of Virginia’s highest mountain and in one of the most stunning landscapes in the East. The approximately 10-acre property you will be managing exists to connect our community to a rich and diverse ecosystem and this position will be central to that experience.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

This part-time position at BRDC maintains and expands all facility infrastructure as needed. The position is responsible for preserving the good condition of infrastructure and ensuring that facilities are safe and well functioning. The goal is to establish a setting that inspires staff, volunteers, and participants that is also safe and hassle-free. The Facilities Manager will be challenged with maintaining a biologically diverse property that supports wildlife at all levels without the use of toxic chemicals and avoids pollutants. The position will be responsible for monitoring and producing reports on drinking and wastewater; managing waste disposal with an emphasis on reduce, reuse, recycle; inspecting and repairing buildings; maintaining clean and hazard-free grounds; managing property security; and working with volunteers, partners, and contractors to achieve maintenance goals with the dual purpose of engagement and cost-efficiency.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• Is well-organized and dedicated to property cleanliness

• Has excellent organizational and leadership skills

• Has excellent problem-solving skills

• Maintains operations at a high level of efficiency while reducing both short and long-term maintenance costs

• Efficient with task management 

• Ability to work independently and with a high level of personal responsibility

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as a facilities manager or relevant position

• Well-versed in technical/engineering operations and facilities management best practices

• Proven skills in general maintenance of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems

• GED/High School Diploma required, BSc/BA in facility management, engineering, business administration, or relevant field preferred

• Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CFM) will be an advantage

• Skills as a naturalist are a plus

BENEFITS:

• Competitive Salary

• Schedule flexibility

ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER

Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.

BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination. 

Seeking Applications for Naturalist/Educator

Position Announcement

Job Title: Naturalist/Educator
Hours: Full-time - 40hrs/week
Reports To: Program Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Salary: Based on experience

Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Naturalist/Educator (N/E) and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the East. This is an excellent opportunity to make an impact in our community while continuing to grow and develop your naturalist skills. Working as a Naturalist/Educator will be some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your life. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

This full-time position at BRDC is responsible for serving the organization with a personal commitment to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge. The N/E position requires dedication to experiential learning, natural history/science education, and lifelong learning. This role coordinates and executes natural history/science programming both in the classroom and in the field during our school programs, community programs, and summer camps. The N/E works with all ages of participants including grade school kids, summer camp attendees, researchers, and adults. You will be expected to work in a wide variety of settings, including in the field, classrooms, public events, and BRDC facilities. The N/E works closely with and directly reports to the Program Director.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• Energetic, outgoing, enthusiastic, positive, inquisitive, goal-oriented, hard-working personality

• Can inspire and empower others to engage in natural history

• A strong base of natural history knowledge preferably focused on the Southern Appalachians

• Passion for and eagerness to expand and share their own personal knowledge

• Bachelor's degree in environmental education, outdoor recreation, biology, or similar

• Experience in environmental education working closely with youth and/or the general public

• Excellent verbal and written skills

• Able to meet the physical demands of outdoor activities related to BRDC programming

• Willingness to work in inclement weather conditions and wilderness settings

• Can provide their own transportation

BENEFITS:

• Competitive Salary

• Work/life balance and flexibility

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Federal Holidays

• Assistance with certifications as required

• Travel reimbursement 

ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER

Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.

BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.

Seeking Applications for Bookkeeper/Administrator

 Position Announcement

Job Title: Bookkeeper/Administrator
Hours: Part-time - 3 days/week
Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Pay: Based on experience

Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Bookkeeper/Administrator (B/A) and help build the structural framework for our future. This is an opportunity to fill a vital role in the success of our mission while working at the base of Virginia’s highest mountain and in one of the most stunning landscapes in the East. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

This part-time position at BRDC takes on two closely linked roles: the Bookkeeper and Administrator. We expect the work to be focused on ⅓ bookkeeping and ⅔ administrative work. 

The Bookkeeping role maintains all financial data and prepares accurate reports for our organization. Bookkeeper responsibilities include processing receipts and invoices, managing payments, and producing internal reports. The role will monitor all financial data and prepare accurate statements for BRDC and act as a consultant for the Executive Director, Program Director, and other staff. The position ensures that all our accounting transactions comply with the BRDC Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual, state and federal laws, and specific grant requirements.

The Administrator role keeps Blue Ridge Discovery Center working in an effective, efficient, mistake-free environment. Administrator responsibilities include maintaining digital and hard copy records, securing permits and insurances, managing inventories, (including office) and being the first line of public inquiry. The role will work with a variety of staff to ensure all t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted. Ultimately, you will ensure that the needed groundwork is in place for our staff to succeed. 

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• Clearly organized and diligent

• Efficient with task management 

• Excellent math skills with attention to detail

• Ability to work independently and with a high level of personal responsibility and confidentiality

• Has an in-depth understanding of business bookkeeping practices, procedures, and accounting regulations

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven work experience as a Bookkeeper, Accountant, Non-profit Administration or similar role

• Advanced knowledge of Quickbooks Online and spreadsheets

• Experience in Google Sheets and Squarespace is a plus

• GED/High School education required, Associates Degree/Bachelor’s Degree preferred

• Additional certifications (e.g. CPA) is a plus

BENEFITS:

• Competitive Salary

• Schedule flexibility

ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER

Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.

BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination. 

A Mountain of a Milestone

During the Wine Down in the Wilderness event this past weekend, 10 women gathered from across the region to share time together in nature, from seasoned naturalists to budding beginners. And in that time, something was established beyond new friendships.

The Wine Down in the Wilderness Ladies’ Retreat marked a milestone for Blue Ridge Discovery Center. This all-inclusive, weekend-long adult event, spurred by the acquisition of the new group campground and field station, was not only the first of its kind for BRDC, it was also a transitional point from being place-less to place-based. This is an exciting next step as we work toward renovations for the future residential education facility, the Center, which will have the capacity to host over 80 people for a wide breadth of events and experiences.

Wine Down in the Wilderness kicked off Friday evening with pizza, wine, dessert, and fellowship. Saturday began leisurely with some enjoying coffee and yoga outdoors while others skipped right to the freshly baked seasonal French toast. Forest bathing techniques prepared all senses for a saunter across Whitetop Mountain before participants refueled with a mountaintop picnic.

Saturday afternoon, local fiber artist Dawn Waters joined us for a needle felting workshop. One of Dawn’s pieces currently graces the cover of the Fiber Arts Now magazine. Through wisps of wool and needle points, participants engaged in one of the fundamental elements of both art and science: close observation. Where does the bee’s wing attach to its body? Which bird lays this speckled egg? Which oak tree produces this acorn? When surrounded by inquisitive minds, a plethora of books, and open conversation, you never know what you may learn.

The rest of the weekend offered more time for relaxation, book and idea sharing, and for enjoying locally-sourced food and drink.

All proceeds from the Wine Down event will be applied toward the Capital Campaign for the Center, which is a mere $200,000 away from our restoration fundraising goal. Visit our Capital Campaign Page to learn more and to make a contribution.

Thank you, Abingdon Vineyards, Dark Hollow Roasters, and Appalachian Sustainable Development for supporting this fundraiser event with local flavor!

Butterflies and Community Science

Butterflies are one of the most beautiful elements of the natural world, and scientists now recognize that they can also serve as one important indicator of the health of ecosystems. A dedicated group of naturalists and staff at BRDC gathered together Sunday, September 15th to enjoy their beauty and contribute to a nationwide community science program that conducts long-term monitoring of butterfly populations.

The North American Butterfly Association Count has been held since 1975. BRDC has selected a count area of 15 miles in diameter centered around our Center and Field Station. The staff and volunteers conducted a full day census of all butterflies observed within that circle. We intend this count to provide results useful for scientific monitoring and to track the species/host plants within various assets surrounding our Center.

It is our hope to perform this count three times a year going forward; Spring, Summer and Fall. This recent count, our Fall count, produced 35 different species of butterflies; a great number of species for this late in the season. I am sure 80 degrees and sunshine contributed to the large showing. We also noted nearly 50 monarch caterpillars in a small area of Whitetop Mountain full of milkweed! We hope to add more community participation in the coming butterfly season. Please enjoy some of the photos and our species list below:

Painted lady
Common buckeye
Red spotted admiral
Monarch
Common wood nymph
Viceroy
Northern crescent
Silver spotted skipper
Sachem
Least skipper
Clouded skipper
Peck’s skipper
Tawny edged skipper
Horace’s duskywing
Zabulon skipper
Wild indigo duskywing
Fiery skipper

Eastern tiger swallowtail
Pipevine swallowtail
Spicebush swallowtail
Black swallowtail
Cabbage white
Clouded sulphur
Orange sulphur
Sleepy orange
Cloudless sulphur
Eastern tailed blue
American copper
Variegated fritillary
Great spangled fritillary
Aphrodite fritillary
Meadow fritillary
Pearl crescent
Silvery checkerspot
Red admiral

Coming Up this Sunday: Picnic with Raptors!

Come out to Mahogany Rock this Sunday, September 22nd, from 10:00am to 2:00pm for a chance to view migratory raptors during their fall migration!

Hawk watches are a nationwide, annual event, and for good reason. Each fall it is possible to see hundreds, even thousands, of raptors circling or “kettling” overhead as they ride the thermal updrafts during migration. This migration viewing event is scheduled during the height of activity in this region, when historical data report as many as 4,000-5,000 broad-winged hawks at Mahogany Rock, joined by other migratory raptors. While we cannot promise how many birds will turn up, we can aim to enjoy the day together.

BRDC staff and other experienced birders will be on hand to help identify species by silhouette and flight pattern. Bring a lawn chair, sack lunch, and binoculars (if you have them). Some field guides and binoculars will be available.

Interested in joining us? Please Register Here. Additional information will be sent to registered participants prior to the event. This event is FREE to members. The fee for non-members is just $10. Not a member yet? You can easily Become a Member and join the BRDC community!

Questions? Email lisa@blueridgediscoverycenter.org.

Goatsuckers

Nighthawks and nightjars of the family Caprimulgidae were once erroneously referred to as “goatsuckers” because they flew into barns at night to suckle on goats. Inappropriately named, nighthawks are not as nocturnal as once thought, nor are they related to hawks. They are active at dawn and dusk usually seen swooping and twisting high over fields, rivers, and towns in search of insects.

During the day, they roost on the ground or perch lengthwise on a branch. Cryptic colors aid them in blending in with their surroundings. In flight, they are easily identified by their erratic “bat-like” pattern. A white wing bar and white chin are other distinguishing features. Usually solitary, they form large, loose groups when feeding or migrating.

The birds begin their southward journey in late August and early September to South America where they will spend the winter in the Amazon rainforest and tropical savannas of Brazil. During fall migration, birds travel southeast through Florida, cross the Gulf of Mexico, stop in Cuba, and enter South America through either Ecuador, Colombia, or Venezuela, and then east to Brazil. This fall pattern sends them over the Blue Ridge where we can see large numbers this time of year. Come spring, they migrate back to their nesting grounds to nearly the exact location of the previous year. They return northwest through Brazil, across the Gulf of Mexico, stopping in Cuba, continuing northwest through the United States. This loop style migration keeps us from seeing them on their return flight.

Limited breeding bird survey data suggests a substantial decline in numbers of this species. It has been listed as threatened in Canada -- a decline of about 50% has been noted there over the past 3 generations. The 2014 State of the Birds Report lists common nighthawk as a “common bird in steep decline”. Across North America, threats include reduction in mosquitoes and other aerial insects due to pesticides, and habitat loss including open woods in rural areas and flat gravel rooftops in urban ones. Nighthawks are also vulnerable to being hit by cars as they forage over roads or roost on roadways at night. Creating nesting habitat by placing gravel pads in the corners of rubberized roofs and by burning and clearing patches of forest to create open nesting sites has been shown to have some success.

So, from the last week of August through the first week of September, enjoy the lovely pre-fall evenings outside looking up. How many common nighthawks do you see?

Photo credit: Steven Hopp

Cited Sources:
Brigham, R. M., J. Ng, R. G. Poulin, and S. D. Grindal (2011). Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), version 2.0. In The Birds of North America (A. F. Poole, Editor). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. https://doi.org/10.2173/bna.213

Cornell University. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Common_Nighthawk/lifehistory

Canadian Journal of Zoology. https://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/10.1139/cjz-2017-0098#.XXFui5NKjK0

BRDC's Fall 2019 Events Announced

Spy a flock of nighthawks, watch a kettle of migratory raptors, find inspiration in the fall forest, or take up fly fishing. Register today to join us for one of our upcoming events!

Click on each link to learn more.

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Nighthawk Migration Picnic

September 6, 2019

5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location TBD

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Mahogany Rock Hawk Migration Viewing

September 22, 2019

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Mahogany Rock Overlook, Sparta, NC

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Wine Down in the Wilderness All-inclusive Ladies' Retreat

September 27-29, 2019

Blue Ridge Discovery Center Campground & Field Station

All proceeds will go toward BRDC's $200,000 Capital Campaign Cabell Grant Challenge Match fundraising goal

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Women's Fly Fishing Clinic

October 12-13, 2019

Blue Ridge Discovery Center Campground & Field Station

Reflections on the 2019 Summer Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally

“Leave the beaten track behind occasionally and dive into the woods.” - Alexander Graham Bell

During the 4th Annual Summer Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally last weekend, over 150 naturalists came together at Blue Ridge Discovery Center’s new Campground & Field Station to enjoy one of the world’s most fascinating treasures.

Participants traveled from as far as 370 miles away and began arriving mid-week in preparation for this unique event. Registration and field trip sign-ups began Friday afternoon under the shade trees as children vied for their turn on the rope swing. When it came time for Friday Night Dinner, The Pakalachian Food Truck served their award-winning chili to anyone lucky enough to snag a dinner ticket before they sold out.

Hosting the MRNR on this beautiful creekside property allowed us - for the first time in rally history - to enjoy the featured speaker’s presentation outside overlooking Big Laurel Creek. On Friday evening, Dr. Rick Van Noy shared inspirations from his book, A Natural Sense of Wonder: Connecting Kids with Nature through the Seasons, while the occasional child explored the creek bank and participants lounged barefoot, the gentle breeze between their toes.

During this time, BRDC Board Member and Campaign Chair Keith Andrews also shared the status of our capital campaign. With just under $200,000 left to raise through community donations, we have nearly reached our $2,250,000 fundraising goal for the restoration of the historic Konnarock Training School, the future BRDC School of Discovery.

As the sun slipped behind the mountains and the stars took over the sky, participants enjoyed a creekside campfire, picked at guitars, and searched the creek by flashlight to witness aquatic creatures out hunting at night.

Saturday morning kicked off with a locally-sourced breakfast before participants split up and departed on ten different field trips. Some slipped into the incredible cave systems underlying Sugar Grove. Some worked their way up to Virginia’s highest peak while learning about the natural history of Mount Rogers. And others ventured out to conduct biological surveys, sample fresh tea derived from native plants, or to explore the plants, insects, birds, or geology of the Blue Ridge while children learned about animals through the senses.

During the mid-day break, participants returned to the field station to share stories and discoveries over lunch. Afternoon field trips presented participants with opportunities to snorkel, practice primitive skills, hunt for mushrooms, identify butterflies, and practice sketching techniques. Some sought gall-forming insects or edible and medicinal plants while others held snakes and sampled the creek’s macroinvertebrates.

On Saturday night, blue light shining on a white sheet invited in a plethora of moths, caddisflies, and other flying insects to be collected and identified.

Sunday morning, participants enjoyed one last breakfast together before heading over to the meadows, waters, and hills of Helton Creek. There, we discovered butterflies, plants, and turtle tracks, cast flies over the creek, and witnessed spider after spider wrapping up its lunch in small, silky packages.

This event is not complete without a heartfelt thank you to every participant, guide, and volunteer who shared their time, interests, and character with us and this wonderful community.

We look forward to seeing you all at many more events at the BRDC Campground & Field Station as we continue leaving the beaten track and diving into the woods!

Hidden in Plain Sight

If it’s not a leaf and it’s not a grasshopper, what is it?

This conical-faced insect is a sword-bearing conehead (Neoconocephalus ensiger). Coneheads belong to the katydid (Tettigoniidae) family, can come in green or brown forms, and resemble vegetation as a means of camouflage. In the photos below, notice how the wings and head resemble grass while the long hind legs resemble twigs or dead stalks. Green color variants are a fresh, unmarked leafy green while brown color variants are speckled with black like decaying vegetation.

Sword-bearing coneheads are so named for their females’ long, sword-shaped ovipositor, which extends far beyond her wings. This particular individual is a male, whose song is produced by rubbing his right forewing (plectrum) across a set of teeth on the underside of his left forewing. Males can be heard singing through the night from July to September. On cooler nights, males synchronize their singing.

Different conehead species can be distinguished by their songs as well as the black markings on the tip of their cones. Sword-bearing coneheads sing a raspy tst-tst-tst song at 10 notes per second and don a moustache-like black stripe across the tip of their cone.

Coneheads can be found in the tall grasses of moist meadows, and their unique mouthparts are suitable for feeding on the seeds of these grasses. During the day, coneheads remain still in a head-down position in the vegetation and can be very difficult to spot.

Keep an eye - and an ear - out for awe-inspiring things that may be hidden in plain sight all around you!

Green color variant of the male sword-bearing conehead.

The black stripe across the tip of his cone signifies that this is a sword-bearing conehead.

The berry-colored mouthparts of these coneheads are designed for eating seeds of grasses.

During the day, coneheads remain still in a head-down position.

Schedule Announced for the 4th Annual Summer Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally

We invite you to join us and a host of expert guides for a weekend of exploration and discovery across the Blue Ridge August 16th-18th! Come out for a field trip, or for the whole weekend! This event is free to youth and members. General admission is just $15 for three days of discovery. This is also your opportunity to snag limited-edition youth and adult tees from our 2019 Species Shirt Collection which feature species unique to this region. 

On Friday, August 16th, the event kicks off with field trip sign ups at 4:00 pm. Beginning at 5:30 pm, The Pakalachian Food Truck will serve their spin on chili, which recently won the People’s Choice Award at the 33rd Annual Marion Downtown Chili Championship. The rally welcome will begin at 6:45 pm leading up to a special presentation by Dr. Rick Van Noy at 7:00 pm. Dr. Van Noy will discuss his book, A Natural Sense of Wonder: Connecting Kids with Nature through the Seasons, while spotlighting the myriad benefits of connecting kids with the natural world, including the tools to do so.

Saturday, August 17th begins with breakfast for purchase at 7:00 am. The morning session of field trips depart at 8:00 am and include: an all-day hike to Mt. Rogers, a trail maintenance project, a biological survey, birding, caving, an edible/medicinal plant walk, entomology, geology, botany, and an animal sensory kids program. Lunch will be available for purchase beginning at 11:30 am.

Saturday afternoon field trips depart at 1:00 pm and include: butterflies, an edible/medicinal plant walk, a parasitic insect hike, mushrooms, nature art, primitive survival skills, snorkeling, a wild wonders kids program, and a stream ecology kids program. On Saturday evening we will depart at 8:30 pm for a salamander courtship hike on Whitetop Mountain.

The weekend will wrap up on Sunday, August 18th with an 8:00 am naturalist hike where we will have an opportunity to explore the breadth of natural history of one of the most biologically-diverse landscapes in the world. 

The Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally is a grand tradition dating back to 1974. The summer version of this event provides us access to even more seasonal subjects. And for the first time ever, this event will be held at Blue Ridge Discovery Center’s new campground along beautiful Big Laurel Creek.

The Summer Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally will meet at 6315 Whitetop Road, Troutdale, VA 24378. All field trips depart from this location. Registration is required. For full field trip descriptions, t-shirt preorders, and to register, visit https://blueridgediscoverycenter.org/mrnr. 

FISH ON THE FLY

The rains came, the streams swelled, but that did not discourage our group of avid fly fishing campers. They spent every waking moment tying flies, setting up and taking down gear, loading gear, traveling, and FISHING! Lots of FISHING!

Learning to cast and practice, practice, practice makes for the best fly fishing success. Learning to set the hook and getting the fish to hand comes next. The best place to get that right is with pan fish in a farm pond. So that is the first place we go. And...it was a success. All of us caught fish. Since the rains had blown out the streams, we tried our luck for trout via kayak on a small lake, fun in and of itself.

As the high elevations streams rid their peaks of water, we decided to start at the top and fish for our endemic native brook trout. We landed a few fish and the falls, scenery, and rock climbing added to the wonders of the Blue Ridge and the sport of “bluelining”. This is the term used when we seek out the small blue lines of a map in search of elusive native fish.

Then there was the majestic New River. What a day we had. A vast 7-mile stretch of green water holding our prime target, the smallmouth bass. It was a long day but a productive one as multiple species of fish were landed; sunfish, bluegill, rock bass, and smallies all to the boat.

It was a fun and memorable experience where friends of years past were reacquainted and new ones made. We couldn’t have done it without the help of two wonderful guides that donated their time to these young men. Thank you to Matt Reilly and Joey Whisnant for your rafts, time, patience, and expertise!

Virginia Women's Monument Honors Laura Copenhaver

The clay sculpture of Laura Copenhaver, ready to be cast in bronze for the Virginia Women’s Monument.

Last week we were invited to join Emory and Henry College’s More Than a Vacation (MTAV) alumni group for a special presentation by the Librarian of Virginia, Sandra Treadway, on the Virginia Women’s Monument. This monument honors women whose achievements and contributions have had a significant impact on the Commonwealth over the course of Virginia’s 400-year history. Among the women selected to be featured in twelve life-sized bronze statues is Laura Copenhaver, co-founder of the Konnarock Training School, the historic gem that is to become our future Discovery Center.

Laura Copenhaver

Laura Lu Scherer Copenhaver (1868-1940), a native of Marion, has a long history of influence in Southwest Virginia. She was a writer of fiction, poetry, pageants, and the popular hymn, “Heralds of Christ”. As director of information for the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Copenhaver helped propel advancements in the regional agricultural economy. As a businesswoman and entrepreneur, she started a textile business in her home, utilizing locally-sourced wool and hiring local women to craft coverlets. Rosemont Industries still operates today in Marion as Laura Copenhaver Industries.

Laura Copenhaver was also a lay leader, who, along with her cousin Rev. Kenneth Killinger, made an impassioned plea to the Women’s Missionary Society, convincing them to establish the Konnarock Training School in 1925. Copenhaver’s advocacy toward the education of impoverished youth within Appalachian communities began a legacy which Blue Ridge Discovery Center is thrilled to continue.

The Virginia Women’s Monument

Installation of the Virginia Women’s Monument, Voices in the Garden, is currently underway in Richmond’s Capitol Square with a formal dedication scheduled for October 2019. The monument will be the first of its kind nationwide.