Great Smoky Mountains National Park Science Colloquium

Learn about research in the park

This free, annual event highlights the research and conservation efforts being made in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Co-hosted by DLiA and GSMNP, this event is an excellent opportunity for members of the public to learn about the incredible biodiversity of the Smokies, to understand the fascinating research taking place there, and to talk to scientists about their work in the region. This year, DLiA will host a workshop from 3-4 PM where members of the public can learn how to become citizen scientists, helping to gather valuable scientific data using a smartphone app.

Scientists consider the GSMNP to be one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America. In the midst of such species richness, DLiA conducts an ongoing project to catalog all species that exist in the Park.  The All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) seeks to discover and understand the estimated 60,000-80,000 species living in the park.  The project continues to develop reports, maps, databases, GIS tools, and natural history profiles that describe the biology of this rich landscape. These tools enhance park management and provide information to a wide audience in an effort to promote science and conservation of biodiversity.