BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Discover Life in America - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Discover Life in America X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://dlia.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Discover Life in America REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20180311T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20181104T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20190310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20191103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20200308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20201101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20180311T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20181104T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20190310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20191103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20200308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20201101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20170101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20211015T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20211015T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210217T154351Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210611T144233Z UID:4542-1634302800-1634310000@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Herbarium DESCRIPTION:The Smokies Herbarium\n\n\n\nJanie Bitner\, volunteer in the Natural History Collection at Great Smoky Mountains National Park \n\n\n\nThe park’s herbarium houses thousands of plant specimens and other flora from around the park\, from common trees to rare and endangered plants. Janie has been volunteering in the herbarium for decades now and she’ll tell you all about it! Here is a preview. \n\n\n\nFor more information about this free virtual event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Sugarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-10/ CATEGORIES:Education,Science,Science at Sugarlands ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/trout_lily_keepbig.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210917T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210917T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210217T162241Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210217T162428Z UID:4557-1631883600-1631890800@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Elk DESCRIPTION:Elk of the Smokies\n\n\n\nJoseph Yarkovich\, Great Smoky Mountains National Park\n\n\n\nElk are native to the eastern US but were lost in the region due to overhunting. They were reintroduced into the park in 2002 and since then\, their numbers have continued to climb. Learn about these incredible animals from Joseph Yarkovich\, who studies them in the Smokies. \n\n\n\nFor more information about this free virtual event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Sugarlands page. \n\n\n\nPhoto credit: Garrett Hargiss URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-elk/ CATEGORIES:Education,Science,Science at Sugarlands ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/W_Elk-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210829T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210831T170000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20201221T182947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210528T210015Z UID:4441-1630238400-1630429200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Great Smokies Eco-Adventure DESCRIPTION:Experience the Smokies like never before! Spend your days exploring the wilds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and your nights glamorously camping off the grid. DLiA is partnering with A Walk in the Woods to bring you this exclusive 3-day\, 2-night adventure that will include guided hikes and nature walks\, camping in a luxurious off-grid setting\, great local food and drink\, and much more. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help DLiA discover and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Smokies. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPURCHASE TICKETS\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGain new insight into the rich biodiversity of the Smokies from experts in local flora and fauna! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSavor delicious local food & drink! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEnjoy s’mores around the campfire with live music by Elza Gate! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCurl up with a book\, surrounded by natural wondersComfy glamping accomodationsSerene naturescapes + wine!S’mores by the campfireEnjoy fresh delights from our off-grid camp kitchenOff-grid\, but with hot showers!\n\n\n\nTentative schedule\n\n\n\nThe 2-night adventure begins at noon Sunday\, August 29th and will last and will conclude on the evening of Tuesday\, August 31st. Here’s a look at what’s in store. \n\n\n\nDAY 1 (SUNDAY\, AUG 29) Guests will meet at Sugarlands Visitor Center at noon\, and enjoy light snacks and a guided insect hike led by DLiA’s resident entomologist\, Will Kuhn. In the late afternoon\, we’ll head to A Walk in the Woods’ private off-the-grid camp located near Cosby and settle into our luxurious glamping accommodations. We’ll enjoy a cocktail party with heavy hors d’oeuvres\, serenaded by local bluegrass duet\, Elza Gate. We’ll finish off with s’mores around a campfire. \n\n\n\nDAY 2 (MONDAY\, AUG 30) We’ll have fresh coffee and an early breakfast at camp made with local ingredients and pack our sack lunches. Guests will then have a choice of day hikes: for the adventurous\, an exclusive guided hike through old-growth forest to see some of the largest trees in the southern US (moderate difficulty\, but gorgeous)\, or guests may choose an easier guided waterfall/swimming hole hike. We’ll arrive back at camp in early evening and enjoy southern fixins around the campfire. \n\n\n\nDAY 3 (TUESDAY\, AUG 31) We’ll start with a pancake breakfast\, pack sack lunches\, and pack up our gear. Guests will again have a choice between two day hikes: a more strenuous guided through-hike along Gabes Mountain Trail (8 miles) or an easier hike in the Cosby area of the Park. We’ll plan to arrive back at Sugarlands Visitor Center around 5PM where we’ll say our goodbyes and guests will depart. \n\n\n\nYour hosts\n\n\n\nThe Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is co-hosted by Discover Life in America and A Walk in the Woods. As an award-winning\, locally owned and operated tour guide company\, A Walk in the Woods has been helping people get the most out of their Smoky Mountains experience for over 23 years\, serving over 100\,000 visitors along the way! \n\n\n\nA Walk in the Woods has generously provided their camp\, staff\, and Smokies expertise to make this new and exciting fundraising event possible and we are so excited to work with them! \n\n\n\nTickets: $950 per person\n\n\n\nAll proceeds from this event will help DLiA continue its work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tickets are $950 per person\, which includes your travel\, accommodation\, food\, and alcohol during the event (details below). \n\n\n\nPURCHASE TICKETS\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat does your ticket purchase support?\n\n\n\nBiodiversity research in the SmokiesOur biology interships……and photo/videography internshipsBiodiversity educationPublic engagement through citizen scienceConservation of creatures great and small in the Smokies\n\n\n\nSpecifically\, your support will fund \n\n\n\nour continuing research work with the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory\, aimed cataloging\, understanding\, and ultimately conserving the remarkable diversity of life in the Smokiesour world-class summer internship program\, where we train the next generation of conservationists through an immersive experience in the Smokiesour educational programming in and around Great Smoky Mountains NP\, fostering nature literacy among our community (Science @ Sugarlands\, iScience\, Species SnapIt & MapIt)and much more!\n\n\n\nTravel (included during event)\n\n\n\nTicket purchase includes private bus transportation during the event. Guests must arrange their own travel to and from the meeting place (Sugarlands Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park) before and after the event. \n\n\n\nFood & drink (included)\n\n\n\nFood (including vegan options) and drinks (including beer and wine) are included. Guests should plan to eat lunch before arriving on Sunday (light snacks will be provided). Please specify any dietary restrictions during ticket purchase and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. \n\n\n\nAccommodations (included)\n\n\n\nThis is a “glamping” (glamorous camping) event and accommodations are rustic\, but comfortable. The camp is off-the-grid\, but it has many of the amenities of home\, including hot showers and running water\, a well-stocked camp kitchen\, and a battery pack for lighting and to charge your phone as needed. You’ll sleep in a large 2-person tent with a comfy cot. Pricing is based on double occupancy. \n\n\n\nWhat to bring\n\n\n\n\n\nRequired\n\n\n\nsleeping bag towelday packhiking shoes/bootsrain jacketwater bottlecool weather clothing and jacket\n\n\n\n\n\nRecommended\n\n\n\ntravel pillowflashlight or headlamp with fresh batteriesinsect repellentsunscreentoiletries\n\n\n\n\n\nWhere & when to meet?\n\n\n\nMeet at Sugarlands Visitor Center\, Bus parking lot (closest to Little River Road) at noon on Sunday. We will send out instructions and follow-up information to ticket holders as the event approaches. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCancellation Policy\n\n\n\nFull payment is due at sign up. If you decide to cancel your spot\, we are happy to refund your full payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot before the event. URL:https://dlia.org/event/eco-adventure-2021/ CATEGORIES:Education,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/glamping-graphic-wide-banner1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210820T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210820T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210217T161623Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210217T162424Z UID:4556-1629464400-1629471600@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Water Bears DESCRIPTION:Water bears of the Smokies\n\n\n\nPaul Bartels\, Warren Wilson College\n\n\n\nWater bears\, also called tardigrades or moss piglets\, are microscopic creatures that live on moss and in aquatic environments. These tiny creatures have captured the imagination of the world because they are practically indestructible. Learn about water bears from Dr. Paul Bartels\, who has studies them in the Smokies for years and even named several new water bear species. \n\n\n\nFor more information about this free virtual event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Sugarlands page. \n\n\n\nPhoto credit: Kevin FitzPatrick URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-water-bears/ CATEGORIES:Education,Science,Science at Sugarlands ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/W_DSC_1141.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210731T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210731T120000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210316T165245Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210524T195142Z UID:4642-1627718400-1627732800@dlia.org SUMMARY:Bioblitz @ East Lakeshore Trail DESCRIPTION:Bioblitz @ East Lakeshore Trail \n\n\n\n\n\n\nFree\, family friendly opportunity to learn about local animals and plants while contributing to science. Join Discover Life in America and the Tennessee Valley Authority at the East Lakeshore Trail on Tellico Lake in Tennessee. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat’s a bioblitz?\n\n\n\nDuring a bioblitz\, volunteers help us find as many kinds of animals\, plants and other organisms as we can find in a certain place. It’s also an opportunity for you to be a community scientist\, gathering real scientific data\, while also learning about the local flora and fauna living around you! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat will we be doing?\n\n\n\nWalking a couple of sections of the East Lakeshore Trail\, looking for bugs\, flowers\, and anything else we can find. We’ll photograph them with our phones and post pictures to our iNaturalist project. It’ll be a fun morning of outdoor time in a gorgeous natural space and we’ll have several experts on hand to guide small groups around the trail and point out interesting facts about the organisms we see. \n\n\n\nAfterward you can see what kind of organisms we found by visiting the East Lakeshore Trail iNaturalist project\, which will be up indefinitely. We encourage you to revisit any part of the 28.8-mile East Lakeshore Trail and post what you find! Making iNaturalist observations helps TVA know what’s out there so they can better manage and protect these public lands. \n\n\n\nFREE REGISTRATION\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore the event\n\n\n\nDownload iNaturalist to your phone (it’s free!)Follow prompts in the app to create an iNaturalist accountBring water and some snacks (we’ll also provide water)Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for hiking\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhere and when to meet?\n\n\n\nMeet in the Mizell Trailhead and Parking Area at 8 AM on Saturday\, July 31. \n\n\n\nThe East Lakeshore Trail extends 28.8 miles and is divided into several sections. We’ll focus on the Canal and Baker Hollow Branches of the East Lakeshore Trail\, which span 4.5 miles total. We’ll take our time looking for fun flora and fauna and may not cover that full distance. \n\n\n\n\nDirections to meeting spot\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHelpful links\n\n\n\nEast Lakeshore iNaturalist projectTVA’s East Lakeshore Trail information pageList of all our bioblitzes with TVATVA RecreationVisit the Smokies? Contribute to our iNaturalist project thereLearn about our iScience schoolyard biodiversity program (grades 5-8)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave questions?\n\n\n\nAsk Will: will@dlia.org URL:https://dlia.org/event/bioblitz-east-lakeshore-trail/ CATEGORIES:Bioblitz,Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Volunteer ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20210512_114649_.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210717T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210717T120000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210316T164615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210625T143558Z UID:4640-1626508800-1626523200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Bioblitz @ Cave Mountain Trail DESCRIPTION:Bioblitz @ Cave Mountain Trail \n\n\n\n\n\n\nFree\, family friendly opportunity to learn about local animals and plants while contributing to science. Join Discover Life in America and the Tennessee Valley Authority at the Cave Mountain Small Wild Area on the south side of Guntersville Dam for a bioblitz of the Cave Mountain Trail. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat’s a bioblitz?\n\n\n\nDuring a bioblitz\, volunteers help us find as many kinds of animals\, plants and other organisms as we can find in a certain place. It’s also an opportunity for you to be a community scientist\, gathering real scientific data\, while also learning about the local flora and fauna living around you! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat will we be doing?\n\n\n\nWalking the Cave Mountain Trail (a moderate 1.5 mile loop)\, looking for bugs\, flowers\, and anything else we can find. We’ll photograph them with our phones and post pictures to our iNaturalist project. It’ll be a fun morning of outdoor time in a gorgeous natural space and we’ll have several experts on hand to guide small groups around the trail and point out interesting facts about the organisms we see. \n\n\n\nAfterward you can see what kind of organisms we found by visiting the Cave Mountain iNaturalist project\, which will be up indefinitely. We encourage you to revisit the site later and post what you find! Making iNaturalist observations helps TVA know what’s out there so they can better manage and protect these public lands. \n\n\n\nFREE REGISTRATION\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore the event\n\n\n\nDownload iNaturalist to your phone (it’s free!)Follow prompts in the app to create an iNaturalist accountBring water and some snacks (we’ll also provide water)Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for hiking\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhere and when to meet?\n\n\n\nMeet in the gravel parking area for Cave Mountain Small Wild Area\, located on the north side of Snow Point Road/HWY 50 at 8 AM on Saturday\, July 17. Cave Mountain SWA is on the south side of the Guntersville Dam near Guntersville\, Alabama. \n\n\n\n\nDirections to meeting spot\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHelpful links\n\n\n\nCave Mountain iNaturalist projectCave Mountain Trail map (PDF)List of all our bioblitzes with TVATVA RecreationVisit the Smokies? Contribute to our iNaturalist project thereLearn about our iScience schoolyard biodiversity program (grades 5-8)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave questions?\n\n\n\nAsk Will: will@dlia.org URL:https://dlia.org/event/bioblitz-cave-mountain-trail/ CATEGORIES:Bioblitz,Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Volunteer ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20210428_114806_.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210716T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210716T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210217T160241Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210308T145630Z UID:4552-1626440400-1626447600@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Birds DESCRIPTION:Birds of the Smokies\n\n\n\nKeith Watson\, local bird expert\n\n\n\nFor more information about this free virtual event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Sugarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-tbd/ CATEGORIES:Education,Science,Science at Sugarlands ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20200615_130811_.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210618T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210618T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210611T145044Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210611T145055Z UID:4558-1624021200-1624028400@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Arthropods DESCRIPTION:Litter Arthropods of High Appalachia\n\n\n\nMike Caterino\, Clemson University Arthropod Collection\n\n\n\nThere are tons of tiny creatures dwelling in the soil and leaf litter in high elevation spruce-fir forests of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. These insects\, millipedes\, pseudoscorpions\, and other arthropods are poorly studied but serve an important role in these mountain ecosystems. Learn about these tiny\, fascinating creatures and the new discoveries being made every day! \n\n\n\nHere are some examples of High Appalachian arthropods in Flickr and iNaturalist. Caterino Lab page. \n\n\n\nFor more information about this free virtual event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Sugarlands page. \n\n\n\nPhoto credit: Mike Caterino via Flickr URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-tbd-2/ CATEGORIES:Education,Science,Science at Sugarlands ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/pseudoscorpion-Mike-Caterino.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210603T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210606T230000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20200601T191246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210527T204115Z UID:3916-1622746800-1623020400@dlia.org SUMMARY:Fireflies Event at Norton Creek 2021 DESCRIPTION:Join DLiA for our annual firefly-centered fundraising event at Norton Creek. Witness the magic of the Smokies fireflies from a beautiful private setting. This is an evening you won’t forget! All proceeds help Discover Life in America carry out its mission to understand and conserve biodiversity in the Smokies. \n\n\n\nNOTE: This is a private fundraising event\, held at a private reserve adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This event is not associated with the Park or its synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont. \n\n\n\nFour nights to choose from:\n\n\n\nThursday\, June 3\, 2021 – 7:00 to 11:00 pm SOLD OUT!Friday\, June 4\, 2021 – 7:00 to 11:00 pm SOLD OUT!Saturday\, June 5\, 2021 – 7:00 to 11:00 pm SOLD OUT!Sunday\, June 6\, 2021 – 7:00 to 11:00 pm SOLD OUT!\n\n\n\nUPDATE: We are officially sold out of tickets for this event. Please use the waiting list form (button below) if you’re still interested and we will contact you IF we have cancellations for the night of your choice. We’ll post the dates for next year’s event sometime in June and tickets will become available starting January 2nd 2022\, so stay tuned. Thanks for your interest and support! \n\n\n\n\n\nWaiting list (all nights) \nCheck out our Virtual Fireflies Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGeneral information\n\n\n\nWe’ll tell you all about the synchronous fireflies and other firefly species in the Smokies\, and we’ll answer your burning firefly questions This is a rain or shine event (see FAQ below) Sorry but pets are not allowed at this event\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nThere will be light walking on paved and gravel surfacesTicketholders will receive an email packet with directions and more as the event approachesPlease purchase tickets early. They’re limited and usually sell out\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocation\n\n\n\nThe event will be held at Norton Creek Preserve\, a 3000-acre tract of land adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park\, accessible via the Spur (HWY 321/441) near Gatlinburg\, TN. Ticket holders will be sent detailed directions as the event approaches. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFood & drink\n\n\n\nTicket purchase includes food (heavy hors d’oeuvres) by Whole Earth Grocery\, including vegetarian options\, as well as beer\, wine\, sodas and tea. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSilent auction\n\n\n\nDon’t miss our firefly-related treasures including original firefly artwork and photography! Cash\, check and card are accepted. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTickets\n\n\n\nFireflies Event tickets are $225 per person and are open to anyone 10 years of age or older (children under 10 are not allowed). Each ticket is for a single night of the event (Thursday\, Friday\, Saturday\, or Sunday). Your ticket purchase helps DLiA carry out its mission! \n\n\n\nIMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING COVID-19: Right now\, we’re planning for this to be a partially indoor event as we have done pre-2020. In early May\, we’ll determine if we need to adapt the event to be socially distanced and outdoor-only\, depending on CDC guidance at that time. We will update ticketholders when we make that determination and post additional information here. \n\n\n\n\nWaiting list (all nights) \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCancellation policy\n\n\n\nFull payment is due at sign up. We will be happy to refund your full payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot. \n\n\n\nHave questions?\n\n\n\nNeed help purchasing tickets? Please first read our FAQ below for answers to common questions\, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757. \n\n\n\nFAQ\n\n\n\nQ. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park? \n\n\n\nA. No\, it is not. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however\, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery\, dates for the lottery\, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm. \n\n\n\nQ. $225 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it? \n\n\n\nA. We certainly think so! For the price of $225 you get a lot of value and you support the work of Discover Life in America! There’ll be delicious food\, made from scratch by our friends at Whole Earth Grocery\, and yummy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll get an exclusive look at the private venue for the event\, a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark\, which is set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with an entomologist who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies\, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather\, you’ll see them in a leisurely\, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are positive that you will find the Fireflies Event to be an illuminating experience! \n\n\n\nQ. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active? \n\n\n\nA. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however\, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system\, typically releasing those dates around late April. We\, however\, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance\, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the seven years that we’ve been doing this event\, we’ve never been disappointed. \n\n\n\nQ. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that? \n\n\n\nA. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies\, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening. \n\n\n\nQ. (Close to the event) Rain may be forecast during the event. Will it be canceled? \n\n\n\nA. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain\, but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes place inside\, but bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing\, which takes place outside but under a protective forest canopy. One night last year it was pouring rain during our firefly presentation\, but by viewing time the rain had stopped and the fireflies were spectacular. It’s going to be great! \n\n\n\nQ. In the description for this event\, you mention “other glowing critters.” What are you talking about? \n\n\n\nA. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from the ever-popular synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus)\, and the rising stars that are the blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata)\, we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.)\, which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females\, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies\, Orfelia fultoni)\, which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We typically see the adults of other firefly species during viewing while we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to become active (there are nine other firefly species in the region that glow)\, and we find the glowing larvae and pupae of a number of these species. \n\n\n\nQ. Where should I stay during the event? \n\n\n\nA. Although lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event\, there are great hotel options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. They are about equidistant from the venue. \n\n\n\nQ. Are kids allowed at this event? \n\n\n\nA. Children 10 years of age or older may attend this event with ticket purchase. We do not allow children under 10 years of age to attend this event. \n\n\n\nSponsors\n\n\n\nThanks to the following generous sponsors for supporting the 2021 Fireflies Event at Norton Creek and Virtual Fireflies Event! \n\n\n[slideshow_deploy id=’4599′] URL:https://dlia.org/event/fireflies-2021/ CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Fundraiser,Science ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/fireflies-DSC_2613.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210601T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210601T203000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210519T211121Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210527T210057Z UID:4691-1622577600-1622579400@dlia.org SUMMARY:Virtual Fireflies Event 2021 DESCRIPTION:See blue ghosts and other fireflies of the Smokies during our second annual Virtual Fireflies Event! Award-winning firefly photographer and videographer Radim Schreiber will showcase never-before-seen footage of these magnificent creatures and DLiA science director Will Kuhn will talk about what makes fireflies so special. The video is free to view but we suggest making a $5 donation to help DLiA continue its research\, education and conservation work in the Smokies. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTune in June 1st at 8 pm ET!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAll photos are copyright Radim Schreiber (fireflyexperience.org) and may not be used without express permission. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA virtual firefly extravaganza\n\n\n\nRadim Schreiber (fireflyexperience.org)Dr. Will Kuhn\, DLiA\n\n\n\nJoin entomologist Will Kuhn and firefly photographer and videographer Radim Schreiber as we witness the magic of the blue ghost firefly. What are they and what makes them special? How can you view and photograph them? Are there other kinds of fireflies in the Smokies? How can you help fireflies in your own backyard? Find out! \n\n\n\nThe presentation will showcase recordings of blue ghost fireflies recently captured by Radim Schreiber. Schreiber has won over a dozen film and photography awards for his gorgeous work capturing the displays of fireflies from around the world. He has also published Firefly Experience\, a book of his photographs\, and sells prints of his work from his website\, fireflyexperience.org. \n\n\n\nLast year’s inaugural Virtual Fireflies Event video has been viewed more than 157\,000 times on YouTube! It was great\, but this year’s will be even better! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSuggested donation: $5\n\n\n\nWe offer this presentation free of charge to anyone who loves fireflies. If you can\, please consider making a donation to Discover Life in America. Your generous gift will help us continue our work to discover\, understand and conserve biological diversity in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and beyond. \n\n\n\nDonate Now\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow to view\n\n\n\nThe video will premiere on YouTube June 1st at 8 pm ET at >>this YouTube link<<. While you wait\, check out last year’s firefly video. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel to be notified of new content about life in the Smokies! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFAQ\n\n\n\nQ. Is this a live event? \n\n\n\nA. No. This event marks the world premiere of a beautiful video created by award-winning firefly photographer and videographer Radim Schreiber (fireflyexperience.org). It does include never-before-seen footage of blue ghost fireflies\, which was recently recorded in the Smokies. Also\, DLiA Science Director Dr. Will Kuhn and Radim Schreiber will be on hand to answer your questions live in the comments. \n\n\n\nQ. Can I still join your in-person firefly event? \n\n\n\nA. Unfortunately\, no. We have long since sold out tickets for our 2021 Fireflies Event at Norton Creek. You can sign up for the waiting list\, but it’s rather long and your chances are pretty slim at this point. You should totally check out our 2022 in-person event though! Tickets go on sale January 2\, 2022. We will posts the dates for that event in mid-June. Thanks for your interest! \n\n\n\nSponsors\n\n\n\nThanks to the following generous sponsors for supporting the 2021 Virtual Fireflies Event and Fireflies Event at Norton Creek! \n\n\n[slideshow_deploy id=’4599′] URL:https://dlia.org/event/virtual-fireflies-2021/ CATEGORIES:Education,Kid Friendly ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2021_05_11_blue_ghost_crop2_resize__.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210521T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210521T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210217T152406Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210217T155607Z UID:4539-1621602000-1621609200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Butterflies DESCRIPTION:Butterflies of Cades Cove\n\n\n\nWarren Bielenberg\n\n\n\nLearn about the variety and natural history of the many butterfly species living in Cades Cove from Warren Bielenberg\, who has surveyed them for years. \n\n\n\nFor more information about this free virtual event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Sugarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-9/ CATEGORIES:Education,Science,Science at Sugarlands ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/20190619_151018_.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210304T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210304T170000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20210211T200537Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210223T215059Z UID:4517-1614870000-1614877200@dlia.org SUMMARY:iScience Workshop for Teachers DESCRIPTION:iScience Workshop for Teachers \n\n\n\n\nJoin us for a free virtual workshop to learn about our iScience biodiversity program for middle schools. This workshop is open to all educators although iScience is specifically geared toward grades 5-8. It will follow the Science Colloquium (also free) and we encourage participants to attend both events. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister for Zoom link\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the workshop\n\n\n\nIn this virtual workshop you will learn how to increase students’ awareness and appreciation for the incredible biodiversity around us through the iScience program. We’ll learn about iScience\, DLiA’s schoolyard biodiversity program in cooperation with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for grades 5th-8th. This program uses the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) model\, bringing ATBIs to schoolyards within the TVA Program Area. We’ll also explore how to use the iNaturalist app into both in-person and virtual classroom settings. In the program\, students use iNaturalist to conduct ATBIs on their school grounds\, acting as citizen scientists and collecting real scientific data about their local biodiversity.  \n\n\n\nWho can attend?\n\n\n\nThe workshop is open to anyone including teachers\, other educators\, and parents but will be aimed toward those educating 5th to 8th graders. \n\n\n\nLocation and registration\n\n\n\nThe virtual workshop will take place on Zoom on Thursday\, March 4th from 3:00 to 5:00 PM ET. Register below to receive a Zoom link. \n\n\n\n\nRegister for Zoom link\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore the workshop\n\n\n\nBefore the workshop\, please download iNaturalist on your Apple or Android device and follow instructions in the app to create an account. Feel free to explore the app beforehand and bring your questions about it to the workshop. \n\n\n\nJoin the Science Colloquium\n\n\n\nWe encourage participants to join the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Science Colloquium\, a series of virtual presentations from scientists working in the Smokies. Talks range from biology to meteorology and are geared for a general audience. It will take place the same day (March 4th) from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM ET\, also on Zoom. Learn more and register for that free conference at this page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/workshop-2021-03/ CATEGORIES:Education,Workshop END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20201110T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20201110T170000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20201022T123204Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210211T211257Z UID:4361-1605022200-1605027600@dlia.org SUMMARY:Schoolyard Exploration\, Smokies Style DESCRIPTION:Join our biodiversity-themed virtual teacher workshop\, co-organized by Discover Life in America and Great Smoky Mountains National Park Education Park Rangers. Participants will learn about activities that we use in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and how they can be adapted at home or around a schoolyard. This virtual workshop is free and open to teachers and educators for all grade levels in public\, private\, and home-school education. \n\n\n\nBack by popular demand: This is a repeat of our September 29th and October 22nd virtual teacher workshops by the same name. \n\n\n\nUPDATE: Apologies if you had trouble registering! The registration link below has been updated. As of Oct 28th at 2:45 PM\, slots should be available\, however the are expected to fill up fast. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat to expect from the workshop\n\n\n\nThis 1.5-hour workshop will include an introduction to resources and a hands-on exploration that can be easily replicated at any schoolyard or at home. We will model the use of free virtual platforms that can enhance classroom and at-home learning. We will explore the world of the terrestrial macroinvertebrate\, learn how to navigate the iNatualist app\, and see how you and your students can participate in the Species SnapIt & MapIt project\, which contributes to a public resource called Atlas of the Smokies. \n\n\n\nTiming and location\n\n\n\nThe virtual workshop will take place over Zoom on Tuesday\, November 10th\, 2020 from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. ET \n\n\n\nWho can participate\n\n\n\nThe workshop is open to any teacher or educator\, for any grade level in public\, private\, home-school education\, informal education\, etc. Attendance will be limited\, so please register early. \n\n\n\nHow to register\n\n\n\nThis workshop is free but you must fill out the registration form to participate. Spots are limited\, so please register early. We will send out a Zoom meeting link with your registration confirmation and additional information as the workshop approaches. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore the workshop\n\n\n\nGet to know iNaturalist! Please download and set up the free iNaturalist app to your mobile device before the workshop. We’ll use it during the workshop\, and it is a generally useful app. \n\n\n\nDownload and install iNaturalist: Google Play store or Apple App store or just search for iNaturalistFollow the prompts to create an account and sign into the appOptional: Play around with the app. Explore and add an observation of an organism in your yard.\n\n\n\nWatch this video to get a primer on using the iNaturalist app: \n\n\n \n\n\n\nResources\n\n\n\nThe following are materials that will either be used directly during the workshop or that participants may find helpful later on. \n\n\n\nTerrestrial macroinvertebrates: \n\n\n\nTerrestrial Invertebrate Study – detailed instructions and resourcesIdentification guide for terrestrial macroinvertebrates (PDF)Inventory datasheet (PDF)Data collection worksheet – elementary (DOCX)Parks as Classrooms: Terrestrial Macro-invertebrates (YouTube video)Parks as Classrooms: Observation Skills – High School level (YouTube video)Parks as Classrooms: Observation Skills – Elementary School level (YouTube video)\n\n\n\nSpecies SnapIt & MapIt project: \n\n\n\nSpecies SnapIt & MapIt community science projectAtlas of the Smokies (free NPS web tool)iNaturalist project for Great Smoky Mountains National Park\n\n\n\nOther helpful resources: \n\n\n\niScience – DLiA’s biodiversity program for middle schoolsEducation at Great Smoky Mountains National ParkSmokiEEEs at HomeTremont Institute‘s programs for educatorsHands on the Land Terrestrial Invertebrate StudySeek app by iNaturalist\n\n\n\nQuestions\n\n\n\nAsk Haley (haley@dlia.org) URL:https://dlia.org/event/teacher-workshop-2020-3/ CATEGORIES:Education,Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/snapit.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20201022T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20201022T170000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20201005T151357Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210211T211311Z UID:4325-1603380600-1603386000@dlia.org SUMMARY:Schoolyard Exploration\, Smokies Style DESCRIPTION:Join our biodiversity-themed virtual teacher workshop\, co-organized by Discover Life in America and Great Smoky Mountains National Park Education Park Rangers. Participants will learn about activities that we use in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and how they can be adapted at home or around a schoolyard. This virtual workshop is free and open to teachers and educators for all grade levels in public\, private\, and home-school education. \n\n\n\nBack by popular demand: This is a repeat of our September 29th virtual teacher workshop by the same name. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat to expect from the workshop\n\n\n\nThis 1.5-hour workshop will include an introduction to resources and a hands-on exploration that can be easily replicated at any schoolyard or at home. We will model the use of free virtual platforms that can enhance classroom and at-home learning. We will explore the world of the terrestrial macroinvertebrate\, learn how to navigate the iNatualist app\, and see how you and your students can participate in the Species SnapIt & MapIt project\, which contributes to a public resource called Atlas of the Smokies. \n\n\n\nTiming and location\n\n\n\nThe virtual workshop will take place over Zoom on Thursday\, October 22nd\, 2020 from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. ET \n\n\n\nWho can participate\n\n\n\nThe workshop is open to any teacher or educator\, for any grade level in public\, private\, home-school education\, informal education\, etc. Attendance will be limited\, so please register early. \n\n\n\nHow to register\n\n\n\nThis workshop is free but you must fill out the registration form to participate. Spots are limited\, so please register early. We will send out a Zoom meeting link with your registration confirmation and additional information as the workshop approaches. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore the workshop\n\n\n\nGet to know iNaturalist! Please download and set up the free iNaturalist app to your mobile device before the workshop. We’ll use it during the workshop\, and it is a generally useful app. \n\n\n\nDownload and install iNaturalist: Google Play store or Apple App store or just search for iNaturalistFollow the prompts to create an account and sign into the appOptional: Play around with the app. Explore and add an observation of an organism in your yard.\n\n\n\nWatch this video to get a primer on using the iNaturalist app: \n\n\n \n\n\n\nResources\n\n\n\nThe following are materials that will either be used directly during the workshop or that participants may find helpful later on. \n\n\n\nTerrestrial macroinvertebrates: \n\n\n\nTerrestrial Invertebrate Study – detailed instructions and resourcesIdentification guide for terrestrial macroinvertebrates (PDF)Inventory datasheet (PDF)Data collection worksheet – elementary (DOCX)Parks as Classrooms: Terrestrial Macro-invertebrates (YouTube video)Parks as Classrooms: Observation Skills – High School level (YouTube video)Parks as Classrooms: Observation Skills – Elementary School level (YouTube video)\n\n\n\nSpecies SnapIt & MapIt project: \n\n\n\nSpecies SnapIt & MapIt community science projectAtlas of the Smokies (free NPS web tool)iNaturalist project for Great Smoky Mountains National Park\n\n\n\nOther helpful resources: \n\n\n\niScience – DLiA’s biodiversity program for middle schoolsEducation at Great Smoky Mountains National ParkSmokiEEEs at HomeTremont Institute‘s programs for educatorsScience @ Sugarlands recorded talksScience @ Sugarlands talk detailing Species SnapIt & MapIt community science project in the Smokies\n\n\n\nQuestions\n\n\n\nAsk Haley (haley@dlia.org) URL:https://dlia.org/event/teacher-workshop-2020-2/ CATEGORIES:Education,Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/iNaturalist_Emily_03_Valerie-Polk_sm.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20200929T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20200929T173000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20200828T145018Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210211T211330Z UID:4068-1601395200-1601400600@dlia.org SUMMARY:Schoolyard Exploration...Smokies Style DESCRIPTION:Join our biodiversity-themed virtual teacher workshop\, co-organized by Discover Life in America and Great Smoky Mountains National Park Education Park Rangers. Participants will learn about activities that we use in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and how they can be adapted at home or around a schoolyard. This virtual workshop is free and open to teachers and educators for all grade levels in public\, private\, and home-school education. \n\n\n\nUPDATE SEPT 21: Wow! We’re excited that we’ve had some much interest in this workshop! Unfortunately\, all available slots and our waiting list are now both filled. Please stay tuned to our Facebook and events page\, where we will announce our next workshop very soon. Thank you for your interest! \n\n\n\nWhat to expect from the workshop\n\n\n\nThis 1.5-hour workshop will include an introduction to resources and a hands-on exploration that can be easily replicated at any schoolyard or at home. We will model the use of free virtual platforms that can enhance classroom and at-home learning. We will explore the world of the terrestrial macroinvertebrate\, learn how to navigate the iNatualist app\, and see how you and your students can participate in the Species SnapIt & MapIt project\, which contributes to a public resource called Atlas of the Smokies. \n\n\n\nTiming and location\n\n\n\nThe virtual workshop will take place over Zoom on Tuesday\, September 29\, 2020 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. ET \n\n\n\nWho can participate\n\n\n\nThe workshop is open to any teacher or educator\, for any grade level in public\, private\, home-school education\, informal education\, etc. Attendance will be limited\, so please register early. \n\n\n\nHow to register\n\n\n\nThis workshop is free but you must fill out the registration form to participate. Spots are limited\, so please register early. We will send out a Zoom meeting link with your registration confirmation and additional information as the workshop approaches. \n\n\n\nRegistration for this workshop is now closed. All available slots and our waiting list are now both filled. Please stay tuned to our Facebook and events page\, where we will announce our next workshop very soon. Thank you for your interest! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore the workshop\n\n\n\nPlease download and set up the iNaturalist app to your mobile device before the workshop. It’s free and useful! \n\n\n\nDownload and install iNaturalist: Google Play store or Apple App store or just search for iNaturalistFollow the prompts to create an account and sign into the appOptional: Play around with the app. Explore and add an observation of an organism in your yard.\n\n\n\nWatch this video to get a primer on using the iNaturalist app: \n\n\n \n\n\n\nResources\n\n\n\nThe following are materials that will either be used directly during the workshop or that participants may find helpful later on. \n\n\n\nTerrestrial macroinvertebrates: \n\n\n\nTerrestrial Invertebrate Study – detailed instructions and resourcesIdentification guide for terrestrial macroinvertebrates (PDF)Inventory datasheet (PDF)Data collection worksheet – elementary (DOCX)Parks as Classrooms: Terrestrial Macro-invertebrates (YouTube video)Parks as Classrooms: Observation Skills – High School level (YouTube video)Parks as Classrooms: Observation Skills – Elementary School level (YouTube video)\n\n\n\nSpecies SnapIt & MapIt project: \n\n\n\nSpecies SnapIt & MapIt community science projectAtlas of the Smokies (free NPS web tool)iNaturalist project for Great Smoky Mountains National Park\n\n\n\nOther helpful resources: \n\n\n\niScience – DLiA’s biodiversity program for middle schoolsEducation at Great Smoky Mountains National ParkSmokiEEEs at HomeTremont Institute‘s programs for educators\n\n\n\nQuestions\n\n\n\nAsk Haley (haley@dlia.org) URL:https://dlia.org/event/teacher-workshop-2020/ CATEGORIES:Education,Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/IMG_0191.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20200601T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20200601T210000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20200522T122506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200601T221036Z UID:3897-1591041600-1591045200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Virtual Fireflies Event DESCRIPTION:Witness the magic of the Smokies fireflies from the comfort of your own home! We are collaborating with firefly photographer Radim Schreiber to present a Virtual Fireflies Event. Tune in Monday\, June 1 at 8 pm ET on YouTube. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTUNE IN ON YouTube\n\n\n\nDONATE NOW\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat is it? The event will include a short presentation about fireflies by our Director of Science and Research\, Dr. Will Kuhn\, followed by beautiful firefly footage by firefly photographer and cinematographer Radim Schreiber (FireflyExperience.org). The display will include the world-famous synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus)\, as well as blue ghosts (Phausis reticulata) and other firefly species native to the Smokies region\, all set to relaxing sounds of nature. Knoxville radio journalist and DLiA board member Chrissy Keuper will give a special introduction. Kuhn and other DLiA staff will be answering questions in the comments section during the event. \n\n\n\nThis is a free event\, however\, we do suggest a $5 donation to help DLiA continue its biodiversity work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Click the “Set Reminder” bell to get a notification before the show starts and don’t forget to like and subscribe to our YouTube channel! \n\n\n\nWant to see the fireflies in person? Mark your calendar for the 2021 Fireflies Event at Norton Creek. Join us for an evening of fireflies! URL:https://dlia.org/event/virtual-fireflies-event/ CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Science ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/thumbnail-graphic.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20200529T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20200531T230000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190906T221446Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240119T125949Z UID:3369-1590778800-1590966000@dlia.org SUMMARY:Fireflies Event at Norton Creek 2020 DESCRIPTION:This event has now passed. Check out the 2021 event page for the latest event. \n\n\n\nJoin DLiA for a firefly-centered evening! We’ll start with food and drink at a gorgeous\, intimate venue\, followed by a presentation and Q&A about fireflies. At dusk we’ll descend to our favorite firefly viewing spot on the property\, where synchronous fireflies and other glowing critters will put on a light show that you’ll never forget! \n\n\n\nNOTE: This is a private fundraising event\, held at a private reserve adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is not associated with the Park or its synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont. \n\n\n\nUPDATE MAY 12: At present\, we plan to hold this event as scheduled\, but with modifications to minimize the risk for all participants (see details below). We will continue to monitor the coronavirus situation and make additional changes\, as needed to keep everyone safe. Current ticket holders also have the option of transferring their tickets to our 2021 event or receiving a full refund. Stay safe\, stay healthy\, and thank you for your support! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nModifications for coronavirus\n\n\n\nWe are making the following changes to this event to minimize the risk of coronavirus transmission at this event: \n\n\n\n\nAttendance will be limited to 30 guests (approx. 50% capacity) and all attendees will be required to stay with their group throughout the night\n\n\n\nWe will not gather at the house where we usually start the event\, but will instead meet at the viewing site (on the same private property)\n\n\n\nWe will not serve food or alcohol\, but will give attendees a gift certificate to redeem later on their own\n\n\n\nThe firefly presentation will be available online in advance of the event so that folks can view it before they arrive\n\n\n\nWe will require every attendee to wear a mask and to practice social distancing\n\n\n\nWe will check temperatures on arrival and turn attendees away if they present fever or other COVID-19-like symptoms\n\n\n\nAttendees will be required to sign a form agreeing to follow these guidelines for the safety of our guests\, volunteers\, and staff\n\n\n\nAny attendee that does not follow these safety guidelines will be asked to leave the property immediately and will not be given a refund\n\n\n\nThe event could still be cancelled if the outbreak worsens over the next few weeks\, at which point attendees will have the option to carry their ticket over to the 2021 fireflies event or receive a refund\n\n\n\n\nIf you are interested in attending this event\, please purchase your tickets now and we will email you further guidance and updates as the event approaches. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGeneral information\n\n\n\n\nAn entomologist will talk about fireflies of the Smokies and answer your burning firefly questions\n\n\n\n This is a rain or shine event (see FAQ below)\n\n\n\n Sorry but pets are not allowed at this event\n\n\n\n There will be light walking on paved and gravel surfaces\n\n\n\n We’ll email ticket holders details\, including directions to the event\, as the event approaches\n\n\n\n Please purchase tickets early as they are limited and usually sell out\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTiming\n\n\n\n\nFriday\, May 29\, 2020 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM\n\n\n\nSaturday\, May 30\, 2020 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM\n\n\n\nSunday\, May 31\, 2020 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocation\n\n\n\nThe event will be held at Norton Creek Preserve\, a 3000-acre tract of land adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park\, accessible via the Spur (HWY 321/441) near Gatlinburg\, TN. Ticket holders will be sent detailed directions as the event approaches. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFood & drink\n\n\n\nTicket purchase includes food (heavy hors d’oeuvres) by Whole Earth Grocery\, including vegetarian options\, as well as beer\, wine\, sodas and tea. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSilent auction\n\n\n\nDon’t miss our firefly-related treasures including original firefly artwork and photography! Cash\, check and card are accepted. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTickets\n\n\n\nFireflies Event tickets are $225 per person and are open to anyone 10 years of age or older. Each ticket is for a single night of the event (Friday\, Saturday\, or Sunday). Your ticket purchase helps DLiA carry out its mission! \n\n\n\nCancellation policy\n\n\n\nFull payment is due at sign up. We will be happy to refund your full payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot. \n\n\n\nUPDATE MAY 12: At present\, we plan to hold this event as scheduled\, but with modifications to minimize the risk for all participants (see details listed above). We will continue to monitor the coronavirus situation and make additional changes\, as needed to keep everyone safe. Current ticket holders also have the option of transferring their tickets to our 2021 event or receiving a full refund. Stay safe\, stay healthy\, and thank you for your support! \n\n\n\nHave questions?\n\n\n\nNeed help purchasing tickets? Please first read our FAQ below answers to common questions\, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757. \n\n\n\nFAQ\n\n\n\nQ. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park? \n\n\n\nA. No\, it is not. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however\, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery\, 2019 dates for the lottery\, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm. \n\n\n\nQ. $225 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it? \n\n\n\nA. We certainly think so! For the price of $225 you get a lot of value and you support the work of Discover Life in America! There’ll be delicious food\, made from scratch by our friends at Whole Earth Grocery\, and yummy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll get an exclusive look at the private venue for the event\, a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark\, which is set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with an entomologist who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies\, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather\, you’ll see them in a leisurely\, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are positive that you will find the Fireflies Event to be an illuminating experience! \n\n\n\nQ. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active? \n\n\n\nA. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however\, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system\, typically releasing those dates around late April. We\, however\, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance\, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the seven years that we’ve been doing this event\, we’ve never been disappointed. \n\n\n\nQ. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that? \n\n\n\nA. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies\, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening. \n\n\n\nQ. (Close to the event) Rain may be forecast during the event. Will it be canceled? \n\n\n\nA. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain\, but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes place inside\, but bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing\, which takes place outside but under a protective forest canopy. One night last year it was pouring rain during our firefly presentation\, but by viewing time the rain had stopped and the fireflies were spectacular. It’s going to be great! \n\n\n\nQ. In the description for this event\, you mention “other glowing critters.” What are you talking about? \n\n\n\nA. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from the ever-popular synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus)\, and the rising stars that are the blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata)\, we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.)\, which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females\, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies\, Orfelia fultoni)\, which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We typically see the adults of other firefly species during viewing while we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to become active (there are nine other firefly species in the region that glow)\, and we find the glowing larvae and pupae of a number of these species. \n\n\n\nQ. Where should I stay during the event? \n\n\n\nA. Although lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event\, there are great hotel options in Gatlinburg and also Pigeon Forge. They are about equidistant from the venue. URL:https://dlia.org/event/fireflies-2020/ LOCATION:Norton Creek Sanctuary CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/fireflies-DSC_2613.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20200312T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20200312T160000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20191025T143621Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220921T141956Z UID:3442-1584003600-1584028800@dlia.org SUMMARY:Great Smoky Mountains National Park Science Colloquium DESCRIPTION:Learn about research taking place in the Smokies from the scientists working there at the annual Park Science Colloquium. This event is free and it’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the biodiversity of the Smokies and chat with regional scientists about our local national park. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEvent details\n\n\n\nGeneral information: The Park Science Colloquium comprises over a dozen talks by scientists about work being conducted in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding region. \n\n\n\nTiming: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Thursday\, March 12\, 2020 \n\n\n\nLocation: The Park Vista Hotel in Gatlinburg\, TN (map) \n\n\n\nFood and drink: Coffee will be provided and there will be a one-hour lunch break. The Park Vista has a restaurant and there are lots of food choices closeby in Gatlinburg. \n\n\n\nSchedule and abstracts: \n\n\n\nClick for full program with abstracts (PDF)\n\n\n\n2020 schedule and abstracts (PDF)\n\n\n\nRegistration: This is a free event and open to the public\, but we kindly as that you register so that we can accommodate attendees. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister Now (FREE)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nInformation for presenters\n\n\n\nSubmit a talk or poster\n\n\n\nCall for submissions: We welcome you to submit a presentation or poster about your research that is either actively taking place in Great Smoky Mountains National Park or that is of significance to the Smokies\, and that is at a stage in analysis where a full picture of the research can be presented. Note: due to time constraints\, we may not be able to fit all submitted talks. \n\n\n\nSubmitting a presentation or poster: To submit your work for consideration in the Colloquium\, please email your title and author information to Will (will@dlia.org) and Paul (paul_super@nps.gov) by Friday\, January 31. Submitters will be notified by Friday\, February 7 as to their acceptance in the Colloquium. Accepted presenters will be asked to submit an abstract (250 words max) to will@dlia.org and paul_super@nps.gov by Friday\, February 21. \n\n\n\nDeadlines\n\n\n\nFriday\, Jan 31Deadline to submit the title and author information for your presentation or poster to will@dlia.org and paul_super@nps.govFriday\, Feb 7Submitters will be notified of their acceptanceFriday\, Feb 21Deadline to submit your abstract to will@dlia.org and paul_super@nps.govWednesday\, March 11Recommended: Save time by uploading your presentation to Dropbox at this link by this date\n\n\n\nHelpful information\n\n\n\nTime slots: Presentation slots will be 15-20 minutes (including time for questions)\, depending on the number of abstract submissions we receive. We will send you a finalized schedule close to the event. A podium with microphone will be provided and you won’t be able to see “presenter view” on your presentation (sorry!). \n\n\n\nPresentation format: Talks should be PowerPoint (PPT or PPTX) or PDF. Presentations set to wide-format (16:9) will make the best use of our wide screen. Please let us know if you require a different file format or would like to include a video with sound and we will try to accommodate. FYI\, presentations will be displayed from a Windows computer via Microsoft Office 365. \n\n\n\nPresentation content: Please note that many in the audience will have advanced degrees\, but few will have advanced degrees in your topic\, so plan to provide a bit of explanation of technical jargon and stay away from acronyms. \n\n\n\nPresentation upload: Speakers may upload their presentations to this Dropbox folder (preferred\, and preferably by Wednesday\, March 11) or bring them on a USB flash drive the morning of the event. Like to make last-minute changes to your presentation? No problem! You may upload multiple versions of your presentation to the Dropbox link (up to the morning of the colloquium) and we’ll use the latest at the colloquium. Note: this is just a time-saving measure; presentations will not be made public without your consent. \n\n\n\n Upload your presentation here\n\n\n\nPosters: Posters may also be presented at the Colloquium. Please see submission instructions above. Posters can be any size under 48″ wide by 48″ high. We’ll provide a stand and fasteners. \n\n\n\nSmokies Science Teacher Workshop\n\n\n\n During the Science Colloquium\, we will be holding a free workshop for science teachers (grades 5-8). The teacher workshop will be held concurrently with the Colloquium from 2:00-4:00 PM at the Park Vista\, but teachers are encouraged to attend the entire Colloquium to learn about the science taking place in the Smokies. The workshop will include an iNaturalist “field session” and a data analysis activity with iNat data. Please download the iNaturalist app (App Store\, Google Play) to your phone or other mobile device and create an account prior to attending the workshop. Workshop space is limited. Email julie@dlia.org by February 28th to RSVP. \n\n\n\nWorkshop materials\n\n\n\nPlease download iNaturalist to your phone or other mobile device beforehand: (App Store\, Google Play)Additional materials and resources will be posted here closer to the workshop URL:https://dlia.org/event/park-science-colloquium-2020/ LOCATION:The Park Vista\, 705 Cherokee Orchard Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Science ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dlia.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/talks-banner.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20191018T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20191018T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190201T003319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190201T004948Z UID:3002-1571403600-1571410800@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Lichens DESCRIPTION:Lichens of the Smokies revealed\nJames Lendemer\, Assistant Curator\, New York Botanical Garden\nFor more information about this free event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Suglarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-lichens/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190920T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190920T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190201T002947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190201T004817Z UID:3001-1568984400-1568991600@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Plant-soil interactions & Chimney Tops fire DESCRIPTION:Burning questions: why are plant-soil microbiome interactions important & how does the Chimney Tops fire affect this ecological internet?\nKendall Beals\, PhD Student\, University of Tennessee\nFor more information about this free event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Suglarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-plant-soil-interactions-chimney-tops-fire/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190816T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190816T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190201T003220Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190201T004718Z UID:3003-1565960400-1565967600@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Appalachian Balds DESCRIPTION:Appalachian Balds: ecological enigma & conservation dilemma\nJesse Webster\, Forester\, Great Smoky Mountains NP\nFor more information about this free event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Suglarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-appalachian-balds/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190719T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190719T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190201T002800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190201T010454Z UID:3000-1563541200-1563548400@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: NEON Observatory DESCRIPTION:The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) and its work in the Smokies\nWP “Bill Martin\, Field Operations Manager\, NEON-Battelle Ecology\nFor more information about this free event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Suglarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-neon-observatory/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190621T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190621T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190201T002602Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200422T134525Z UID:2997-1561122000-1561129200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Restoring fish DESCRIPTION:Restoring fish to the Smokies’ most diverse stream\nPat Rakes\, Co-founder & Director\, Conservation Fisheries\nFor more information about this free event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Suglarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-restoring-fish/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190607T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190609T230000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190104T002448Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200106T201239Z UID:2775-1559934000-1560121200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Fireflies Event at Norton Creek 2019 DESCRIPTION:Fireflies Event at Norton Creek\nThis is the events page for the 2019 event. >>Click here<< for the 2020 event. \nJoin DLiA at our annual Fireflies Event at Norton Creek! We’ll start with food and drink at a gorgeous\, intimate venue\, followed by a presentation and Q&A about fireflies. At dusk we’ll descend to our favorite firefly viewing spot on the property\, where we’ll see the light show put on by a happy\, healthy population of synchronous fireflies (rivaled in number only by those at Elkmont)\, as well as blue ghost fireflies and a few other glowing critters. Tickets for this event are $150 per person and all proceeds go to support the work of DLiA. This is a fundraising event\, held at a private reserve adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park\, and is not associated with the Park or its synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont. \n\n \n \n \nEvent details\nGeneral information: \n\nAn entomologist will talk about fireflies of the Smokies and answer your burning firefly questions\nThis is a rain or shine event (see FAQs below)\nSorry but pets are not allowed at this event\nThere will be a little walking on paved and gravel surfaces\nWe email ticket holders details\, including directions to the event\, as the event approaches\nPlease purchase tickets early as they are limited and usually sell out\n\nTiming: The event will be held on the following three evenings: \n\nFriday\, June 7\, 2019 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM SOLD OUT\nSaturday\, June 8\, 2019 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM SOLD OUT\nSunday\, June 9\, 2019 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM SOLD OUT\n\nLocation: The event will be held at Norton Creek Preserve\, a 3000-acre tract of land adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park\, accessible via the Spur (HWY 321/441) near Gatlinburg\, TN. Ticket holders will be sent detailed directions as the event approaches. \nFood and drink: Ticket purchase includes food (heavy hors d’oeuvres) by Whole Earth Grocery\, including vegetarian options\, as well as beer\, wine\, sodas and tea. \nSilent auction: Don’t miss our firefly-related treasures including original firefly artwork and photography! Cash\, check and card will be accepted. \nTicket information: Fireflies Event tickets are $150 per person and are open to anyone 10 years of age or older. Each ticket is for a single night of the event (Friday\, Saturday\, or Sunday). Your ticket purchase helps DLiA carry out its mission! \nHave questions? Need help purchasing tickets? Please first read our FAQs below\, then ask Todd: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757. \nFireflies Event FAQs\nQ. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park? \nA. No\, it is not. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however\, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery\, 2019 dates for the lottery\, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm. \nQ. $150 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it? \nA. We certainly think so! For the price of $150 you get a lot of value and you support the work of Discover Life in America! There’ll be delicious food\, made from scratch by our friends at Whole Earth Grocery\, and yummy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll get an exclusive look at the private venue for the event\, a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark\, which is set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with an entomologist who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies\, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather\, you’ll see them in a leisurely\, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are positive that you will find the Fireflies Event to be an illuminating experience! \nQ. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active? \nA. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however\, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system\, typically releasing those dates around late April. We\, however\, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance\, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the seven years that we’ve been doing this event\, we’ve never been disappointed. \nQ. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that? \nA. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies\, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening. \nQ. (Close to the event) Rain may be forecast during the event. Will it be canceled? \nA. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain\, but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes place inside\, but bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing\, which takes place outside but under a protective forest canopy. One night last year it was pouring rain during our firefly presentation\, but by viewing time the rain had stopped and the fireflies were spectacular. It’s going to be great! \nQ. In the description for this event\, you mention “other glowing critters.” What are you talking about? \nA. That’s a great question! I’m so glad you asked! There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from the ever-popular synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus)\, and the rising stars that are the blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata)\, we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.)\, which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females\, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies\, Orfelia fultoni)\, which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We typically see the adults of other firefly species during viewing while we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to become active (there are nine other firefly species in the region that glow)\, and we find the glowing larvae and pupae of a number of these species. \nQ. Where should I stay during the event? \nA. Although lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event\, there are great hotel options in Gatlinburg and also Pigeon Forge. They are more-or-less equidistant from the venue. URL:https://dlia.org/event/fireflies-2019/ LOCATION:Norton Creek Sanctuary CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Fundraiser,Kid Friendly END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190517T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190517T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190201T002423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190201T004504Z UID:2995-1558098000-1558105200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Wildflowers DESCRIPTION:Wildflowers: Gems of the Smokies\nJanet Rock\, retired Botanist\, Great Smoky Mountains NP\nFor more information about this free event and to register\, please visit our main Science at Suglarlands page. URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-wildflowers/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190504T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190504T120000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190110T215446Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190514T175529Z UID:2928-1556956800-1556971200@dlia.org SUMMARY:BioBlitz @ Marbut Bend Trail DESCRIPTION:BioBlitz @ Marbut Bend Trail\nDLiA has partnered with TVA and regional scientists to engage people in a biological inventory of TVA’s public lands through BioBlitzes. Join us for this free\, family-friendly event. It’s a fun\, hand-on opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna in our area! No experience is necessary. \nBioBlitzes incorporate field collection\, specimen identification and education. They offer an opportunity to get to know the biodiversity in our backyard and help TVA to better manage natural areas through species occurrence data. Participants will survey birds\, insects\, plants\, and other organisms using nets and provided collection and preservation equipment. Experts will be on hand to train participants and identify species. We use the smartphone application\, iNaturalist\, to document biodiversity and ask that you install it on your phone beforehand\, if possible. (It’s a very useful app\, in general!) \nREGISTER\nEvent details\nTiming: May 4\, 2019 from 8:00 – NOON local time (CDT) \nLocation: Marbut Bend Trail off Buck Island Road in Elkmont\, Alabama (map). Trail maps available here \nParking: Parking is available on-site \nRegistration: This event is free\, but we do ask that you register (using the button above) \nPreparation: Download the iNaturalist app to your smart device and follow prompts to sign into iNaturalist. Cell coverage is limited at this site\, so this MUST be done ahead of time in a coverage area \nProject on iNaturalist: TVA/DLiA BioBlitz @ Marbut Bend Trail \nHave questions? Ask Todd: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757 URL:https://dlia.org/event/tva-bioblitz-marbut-bend-trail/ LOCATION:Marbut Bend\, 26790-27208 Buck Island Rd\, Elkmont\, AL\, 35620\, United States CATEGORIES:Bioblitz,Education,Fun,Kid Friendly,Science,Volunteer END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20190307T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20190307T160000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20190108T164504Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190305T215042Z UID:2875-1551949200-1551974400@dlia.org SUMMARY:Great Smoky Mountains National Park Science Colloquium DESCRIPTION:Great Smoky Mountains National Park Science Colloquium\nLearn about research in the park\nThis 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. \nScientists 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. \nREGISTER\n\n \n \n \nEvent details\nGeneral information: The Park Science Colloquium comprises over a dozen talks by scientists about work being conducted in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding region. \nTiming: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Thursday\, March 7\, 2019 (colloquium from 9-3\, workshop from 3-4) \nLocation: The Park Vista Hotel in Gatlinburg\, TN (map) \nFood and drink: Coffee will be provided and there will be a one-hour lunch break \nColloquium schedule and abstracts: Available here (as PDF) \nWorkshop: This free\, one-hour workshop will show participants how they can help map the species of Great Smoky Mountains National Park using a free smartphone app. The workshop will be aimed toward a general audience\, children 10 and up are welcome\, and no experience is necessary. To participate\, all you’ll need is a web-connected smartphone\, the iNaturalist app\, and a sense of wonderment for the amazing biodiversity living in the Smokies! We encourage participants to download and install the iNaturalist app to their device before the workshop. More about Species SnapIt & MapIt here. \nRegistration information: Both the colloquium and workshop are free events\, but we do ask that you register for them via the button above. \nHave questions? Ask Todd: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757 URL:https://dlia.org/event/park-science-colloquium-2019/ LOCATION:The Park Vista\, 705 Cherokee Orchard Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Science END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20181019T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20181019T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20180622T214205Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180622T214529Z UID:2499-1539954000-1539961200@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Beetles of the Smokies DESCRIPTION:Come out to Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn more about Beetles of the Smokies with Claire Winfrey from The University of Tennessee. \n___ \nScience at Sugarlands is a reoccurring event that falls on the third Friday of each month starting in May and going through October\, from 1-3 PM. Each month DLIA brings a regional scientist or researcher in to give a talk about their research and increase awareness of the biodiversity around us. This event is free to the public and family friendly. Please come out and join us to learn more about life that surrounds us all! URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-beetles-of-the-smokies/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20180921T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20180921T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20180622T213832Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180622T213832Z UID:2497-1537534800-1537542000@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: Butterflies and Caterpillars in the Smokies DESCRIPTION:Come out to Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn more about Butterflies and Caterpillars in the Smokies with Julie Elliott\, a lepidopteran specialist. \n— \nScience at Sugarlands is a reoccurring event that falls on the third Friday of each month starting in May and going through October\, from 1-3 PM. Each month DLIA brings a regional scientist or researcher in to give a talk about their research and increase awareness of the biodiversity around us. This event is free to the public and family friendly. Please come out and join us to learn more about life that surrounds us all! URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-butterflies-and-caterpillars-in-the-smokies/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20180817T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20180817T150000 DTSTAMP:20260522T055506 CREATED:20180622T212629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180622T213456Z UID:2493-1534510800-1534518000@dlia.org SUMMARY:Science at Sugarlands: The Problems and Solutions with our Hemlocks DESCRIPTION:Come out to Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn more about The Problems and Solutions with our Hemlocks with Jesse Webster from GSMNP \n— \nEach month DLIA brings a regional scientist or researcher in to give a talk about their research and increase awareness of the biodiversity around us. This event is free to the public and family friendly. Please come out and join us to learn more about life that surrounds us all! \n  URL:https://dlia.org/event/science-at-sugarlands-the-problems-and-solutions-with-our-hemlocks/ LOCATION:Sugarlands Visitor Center\, 107 Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Rd\, Gatlinburg\, TN\, 37738\, United States CATEGORIES:Education,Fun,Science,Science at Sugarlands END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR