I just heard about this and have emailed and confirmed my RSVP for this Saturday. It's free! There were 37 spaces left for those wanting to attend.

WNC Native Plant Symposium - Saturday, February 20, 9am-3pm. Sponsored by the Asheville Chapter. Join us for a free native plant symposium at the NC Arboretum Education Center featuring:

Gary Walker, Appalachian State University professor, who will speak on plant communities of cliff faces including Linville Gorge

Ed Schwartzman, NCDENR, Natural Heritage Program, presenting on the flora of Macon County including the Nantahala River eco-region

Tom Baugh, biologist and former editor of Rapid River Art Magazine, who will use narration and his published poetry to discuss the status of life on Earth and our human connection to other life

Alan Mizeras, Henderson County Master Gardener and Coordinator of Henderson County Native Plant Rescue Group, who will present on native plant rescues

Scott Dean, WNC Naturally, will share some of his favorite hikes in the Appalachians, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Please RSVP to Mitch Email: mitch@ncwildflower.org or 828.505.2476. Limited to first 150 RSVP�s. For directions visit, www.ncarboretum.org/plan-a-visit/hours-directions/. Be sure to tell the guards at gate you are attending the NC Native Plant Society native plant symposium for free entry. There is only handicapped parking at the Education Center, where the symposium will be held, so please park down the drive at the Baker Center. People may be dropped off at the Education Center, but please do not park in front since you�ll get a ticket. Bring lunch or plan to eat at area restaurants. You may also want to bring boots or good walking shoes as we may have a wildflower walk afterwards