Description:

Bryan first discusses the biodiversity of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Paul Super, the Research Coordinator of the Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center (1:03). Then Bryan speaks with Kris Johnson of the National Park Service about the health of the forest (28:04).

Discussion includes the following:

· About the Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center (1:22)

· Species Mapper (2:30)

· Ecosystem and different habitats (4:39)

· Impact of humans on the park (7:16)

· Wildlife (11:44)

· Birds (18:03)

· Wildflowers (19:58)

· Discovering new species (22:22)

· Paul’s favorite spots in the park (24:41)

· Threats to the forest (28:47)

· Cross-section of eastern United States forests in one park (32:16)

· How to manage forest health in remote areas (33:46)

· Progress and success in identifying infected trees and combatting disease and pests (36:36)

· What visitors may do to not add to problem and be part of the solution (39:31)

· Grassy balds and heath balds (43:34)

· Wildfires and prescribed fires (47:48)

· Kris’ favorite part of the park (51:28)

Resources:

Great Smoky Mountains institute at Tremont

Species mapper

Nature and Science Education in the Park

Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center

Citizen science at Great Smoky mountains institute at Tremont

Spring Wildflower pilgrimage

A Wondrous Diversity of Life

Great Smoky Mountains: Forests

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