2024 – Weekly Highlights from the Asheville Field Office, Asheville, North Carolina

Forest Service Meeting

Asheville Field Office biologist Rebekah Reid recently conducted a session with U.S. Forest Service staff from the National Forests of North Carolina to educate them on resources for assessing projects for impacts on threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. The session covered the Service’s online Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) tool and determination keys to help project proponents identify potential impacts on listed species.

Bio-blitz

Biologist Mark Endries assisted biology students at the University of North Carolina – Asheville in conducting a bio-blitz at a nearby natural area. The event aimed at enhancing students’ field experience while also promoting conservation efforts in the region.

New Pollinator Garden

Students from Buncombe County Early College participated in installing a pollinator garden at Asheville-Buncombe Technical College under the guidance of biologist Bryan Tompkins. The garden installation is part of a larger initiative to promote pollinator conservation in local schools.

Land Conservancy Presentation

Asheville Field Office staff attended the 2024 North Carolina Land Trust Federation Assembly, where they discussed the collaborative efforts between land trusts and agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service in conserving critical habitat for threatened and endangered species in Western North Carolina.

Bat Detection Training

With the increasing need to monitor bat populations, biologist Rebekah Reid completed training on using acoustic sensors to detect bats, expanding the office’s capacity to survey and conserve bat species in the region.

Continued Efforts for Species Conservation

The Asheville Field Office remains committed to various conservation initiatives, including fish translocation, prescribed fire management, habitat restoration, and ongoing monitoring of endangered species like the sicklefin redhorse and Carolina northern flying squirrel.

Collaborative Conservation Efforts

The office has been actively engaging with partners and stakeholders to advance habitat conservation, conduct surveys, and provide educational outreach on pollinator conservation, biodiversity, and endangered species protection.

Upcoming Initiatives

As the field season progresses, the Asheville Field Office looks forward to undertaking new projects, engaging in training sessions, and continuing its mission to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity of the region.