Blue Ridge Foothills & Lakes Virginia Master Naturalists

Hikes in the Blue Ridge of Virginia

2012-03-05T09:54:00.000-05:00

Roanoke Outside shares some awesome hikes off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia!

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY HIKES
Tucked away, within the 469 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, are hundreds of hiking trails. Trails which provide dazzling images of wildflowers on rolling pastures, cascading waterfalls (some with natural rock waterslides), blue tinged mountains, and majestic gorges. Trails found on the Parkway are suited for all skill levels, and provide an initimate view of the most beautiful wilderness in the country. The trails listed below are either on the Blue Ridge Parkway or located nearby.

Balcony Falls Trail, located at milepost 71 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a strenuous 5.5-mile trail, one-way hike.
Bottom Creek Gorge, is 4.0-mile trail through meadows and along a river. Forming the headwaters of the Roanoke River, Bottom Creek Gorge boasts spectacular scenery: the second highest waterfall in Virginia, virgin hemlocks and hundreds of wildflowers.
Buck Mountain Trail, 1 mile trail through a lovely little forest, under oaks, maples and pines.
Chestnut Ridge Trail is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a wide and well-graded path lined with mountain laurel and rhododendron. The trail offers 5.4-mile figure-eight loop trail that can be shortened to 2.5 and/or 3.4 miles. Less than 10 minutes from downtown Roanoke.

Crabtree Falls Trail, 2.9 miles with cascading falls and scenic views.
Explore Park Trail System, located off the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a 1,100-acre preserve situated along the Roanoke River Gorge with a variety of hiking options. 6+ trail options ranging from <0.5 miles to >10 miles – many of which are loop trails. Only 10 minutes from downtown Roanoke.
Flat Top is a classic Virginia hike - 5.2 mile round trip (out and back) hike at the Peaks of Otter. A lovely trail full of wonderful views, large rock formations, and flora that changes with each turn of the trail, including huge oak, poplar, hickory and beech trees, mountain laurel, rhododendron, and an assortment of wildflowers.
Harkening Hill , the lowliest of the three Peaks of Otter, is the only one with a "loop" trail that swings by the top. Harkening Hill sees far less traffic than it’s bigger brother Sharp Top so the trail is in much better shape. Many interesting granite boulder formations are found on Harkening Hill. This is a 3.5-mile loop trail.
Rock Castle Gorge is an incredible 11 mile hike just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are several variations you can do for shorter mileage but it is highly recommended that you complete the entire loop to obtain the best experience.

Sharp Top is a classic 3-mile round trip (out and back) hike at the Peaks of Otter. Sharp Top was long thought to be Virginia's tallest mountain, when in fact, it is not even the tallest of the Peaks of Otter. Nearby Flat Top rises to 4,001 feet. Mount Rogers near the North Carolina border is the state's tallest mountain at 5,729.
Smart View Loop Trail is a 3-mile loop trail located on the Blue Ridge Parkway that offers excellent views of the Virginia Piedmont. Various trails meander through moist deciduous woodlands, hardwood forests, and open fields.
Stewarts Knob Trail is an easy half-mile hike located at mile post 110.6 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Visit the RoanokeOutside.com website here!

Virginia Master Naturalists Love to Get Outside!

Wood Frogs: A Sign of Spring

2012-03-04T08:32:00.000-05:00

Wood Frogs start their mating season in late winter in order to give their offspring a chance to survive before the vernal pools dry out by summer.
This video showcases the Wood Frog breeding season in 2012 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Isn't it time to go outside?

Virginia Master Naturalists Love all Things Wild!

International Polar Bear Day: 13 Things You May Not Know about Polar Bears

2012-02-27T10:05:00.001-05:00

Did you know Polar bear hair is transparent?
International Polar Bear Day: 13 Things You May Not Know about Polar Bears from Wildlife Promise

Click here to find out what you may not know!

Excerpt:

Brown and polar bears can interbreed and produce fertile young, which by some definitions suggests they are the same species. However, they are adapted to different habitats and behaviors and, under the climate conditions that have prevailed since the last ice age, cannot survive very long in each other’s habitat, a factor that keeps them isolated and continuing to evolve away from one another.

Virginia Master Naturalists Love all Things Wild!

Birds dying from contaminated feeders

2012-02-14T10:10:00.001-05:00

An outbreak of salmonella appears to have hit one of B.C.'s most recognizable species of songbirds.

As part of our Virginia Master Naturalist Basic Training section on Ornithology we discussed the pros and cons of backyard bird feeders.

One of the things that was discussed was bacteria and disease being spread from the feeder to other birds. I had never thought about that before.

Birds dying from contaminated feeders
Homeowners urged to use bleach and water for cleanup
Read the article here.

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here.

Deadly virus hits turtles, tadpoles in Montgomery County

2012-02-13T20:15:00.001-05:00

The discoveries have alarmed state wildlife officials and biologists

Image from the Jim Pilversack Virginia Master Naturalist Eastern Box Turtle Mapping Project

Article By Katherine Shaver, Published: February 12

Maryland biologists studying box turtles rescued from the bulldozers on the Intercounty Connector construction site have made a grisly find: An alarming number of the tiny turtles later died, and biologists say their demise appears to be unrelated to the highway.

Read the article here in the Washington Post from February 12, 2012

If this Biology interests you and you would like to learn more about forests, mountains, and wilfelife..the next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA. You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. Act fast the deadline is Feb 15th!
If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Thrill Ride from the Insects POV

2012-02-10T15:33:00.001-05:00

In case you missed the Super Bowl ads...

If Entomolgy interests you and you would like to learn more about forests, mountains, geology and insects..the next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA.

You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

HURRY - IF YOU ARE READING THIS TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO REGISTER FOR THIS BASIC TRAINING! Click the links above now to learn more about this great opportunity.

ACT FAST Time is Running Out!

2012-02-08T16:26:00.001-05:00

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED BECOMING A CITIZEN SCIENTIST?
Well have we got a deal for you!

Click on this image for larger view of Blue Ridge Foothills!

If you would like to learn more about forests, mountains and geology..the next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA.

You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Space is limited! Deadline to submit your application is February 15th!

*Photo by Virginia Master Naturalist Shellie L.

Clinch Mountain much more than a view

2012-02-06T18:47:00.000-05:00

An outdoor writer describes his "otherworldly" experience hiking in Virginia's Channels State Forest and Natural Area Preserve.

By: ANDY THOMPSON | Richmond Times Dispatch
Published: February 03, 2012
EXCERPT: HAYTERS GAP --

If this were just a hike in the mountains, I'd be no less awed than I am right now.

Standing on this slab of sandstone, I turn in all directions and see mountains. There's Mount Rogers, Virginia's highest point (elevation 5,729 feet) in the distance, and the high peaks of North Carolina beyond. I can make out White Rock (4,528 feet) to my northeast and High Knob (4,162 feet) to my west.

I hiked three miles to get to Hayters Knob (4,208 feet) on Clinch Mountain, ducked into a tunnel of rhododendron and emerged on this rock. I feel like I could take in this view forever. There should be snow up here on a late January day, but somehow it's 50 degrees. There isn't a cloud in the sky.

The vistas would be enough to warrant the drive from Richmond and the straight-uphill hike, enough to inspire wonder and awe. But, as it turns out, the view is just the beginning of the experience on this sandstone slab — a bonus, really. Because this rock formation I stand on with my two dogs is not what it seems.

I look down. What first appear to be cracks in the rock, the normal kind of separation you'd expect in a rock face weathered for 400 million years, are no mere cracks. These crevices go down and down. They don't seem to stop. Maybe 40 feet below, in some places more, I can see the ground.

All of I sudden, I feel faint, like a rock climber who loses focus and realizes how high up he is. What appears to be one contiguous rock face is in fact many rocks, and the cracks between them are wide enough to fit a human, at least down below. They might not match the slot canyons of Utah in height, but that's exactly what they are — slot canyons. Right here on top of a mountain in Virginia.

Suddenly, a nice mountaintop view takes on an otherworldly feel.
Read the rest of this story here at the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Read more from Andy on Richmond Outside.com
Learn more about Channels State Forest - PDF brochure here from DOF and Natural Area Preserve on the DCR website here
Click here to view a map and more info on Virginia's Area Preserves and Natural Heritage Areas

See an amazing photo page on Channels State Forest here

If this interests you and you would like to learn more about forests, mountains and geology..the next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA. You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Got Moss?

2012-02-03T10:24:00.001-05:00

We learned about moss, lichen and fungi at our Virginia Master Naturalist Basic Training last year. I was intrigued by it, being a photographer and nature lover I thought you would enjoy these photos too:
A Japanese Moss Garden

Source: photos.gardenweb.com via charley on Pinterest

A vertical moss garden

Source: treehugger.com via charley on Pinterest

How about this moss? Moss Creek, Desert Island Maine

Source: bluepueblo.tumblr.com via Melody on Pinterest

If this interests you and you would like to learn more about Fungi, Moss and Lichen...the next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA. You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Announcing the next VMN Basic Training in Rocky Mount!

2012-02-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

SPACE IS LIMITED SO RESERVE YOUR PLACE TODAY!

The Blue Ridge Foothills And Lakes (BRFAL) Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist Program (VMN) is now accepting applications for you to participate in the next Virginia Master Naturalist Basic Training!

Water Quality Testing

Be Wild, Virginia!

2012-01-26T08:55:00.000-05:00

Hills and Hollers Here

This is your Virginia

Record year at our Virginia State Parks!

2012-01-24T19:43:00.004-05:00

This means more people are going outside
Hurrah for Virginia State Parks

The news is all over this story, watch the video above from WSLS News at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
Record year at state parks means boost for local economies
Overnight stays at Virginia State Parks set a record in 2011.
Read more »

Elvis has left the building...and is in the forest!

2012-01-22T20:22:00.001-05:00

Amateur photographer Winston Jansen was amazed to discover a bug that looks like Elvis Presley while on an expedition in the forests of western Singapore.

Source: telegraph.co.uk via charley on Pinterest

Repinned from for crying out loud! by Reiner Gogolin - more here.

The next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA. You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Southwest Virginia: One of the Last Great Places on Earth

2012-01-21T11:49:00.000-05:00

MEET VIRGINIA - SHE'S SO DIVERSE!
Far Southwest Virginia has some of the most amazing ecological and biological diversity.

Natural Tunnel State Park (Photo courtesy of Virginia State Parks)

Bee Blog - Bee Trees - Bee Interesting

2012-01-21T09:36:00.012-05:00

The BRFAL Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists has lucked out yet again with another excellent guest speaker. On Thursday, January 19th, Dr. Ronald Hanawalt came to our meeting and gave a very informative lecture on “Bee Trees”. OK, maybe you are ahead of me, but I didn’t really know what bee trees were until Dr. Hanawalt’s visit.

But let me digress for just a second to tell you that “Dr. Hanawalt” is actually just Ron to me. I am his next door neighbor in Hardy and a more down to earth “Doctor” you won’t find anywhere. He is a graduate from Rutgers University which happens to be my Alma Mater as well. He has lived in the Hardy area for about 24 years. He has many bee boxes and rents his bees out to orchards and others for pollination purposes. He knows his bees.
Read more »

Welcome to our CoCoRaHS Neighbors to the North!

2012-01-18T07:38:00.000-05:00

Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist have a few members who are involved in CoCoRaHS. They submit precipitation observations to a nationwide database. We would like to now welcome our neighbors (or shall we say neighbours) to the North to this program!

Volunteer Weather Observers make a difference!

Learn Almost Anything for Free

2012-01-13T08:50:00.000-05:00

Watch. Practice.

Learn almost anything for free.

Khan Academy website

With a library of over 2,700 videos covering everything from arithmetic to physics, finance, and history and 253 practice exercises, we're on a mission to help you learn what you want, when you want, at your own pace.

New Documentary on Aldo Leopold to be Shown

2012-01-10T16:13:00.000-05:00

SHARING THIS FROM VIRGINIA STATE PARKS Blog:

New Documentary on Aldo Leopold to be Shown

By Steve Lindeman, Virginia Master Naturalists

New Documentary on Leopold Showing at Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center and Emory & Henry College

Green Fire film connects legendary conservationist Aldo Leopold with modern environmental projects

On January 26, and February 2, 2012, the Holston Rivers Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists will host a free screening of a new film called Green Fire, the first full-length, high definition documentary film ever made about legendary conservationist Aldo Leopold. The film explores Aldo Leopold’s life in the early part of the twentieth century and the many ways his land ethic idea continues to be applied all over the world today.

The mighty James River is Virginia’s river

2012-01-09T11:14:00.002-05:00

A Mighty Trail for a Mighty River

James River State Park (Photo courtesy of Virginia State Parks)

With a conceptual plan in place, The James River Heritage Trail moves one step closer to reality.

BY TRICIA PEARSALL

EXCERPT:

No doubt you’ve heard of the Appalachian, the Pacific Crest, and the Continental Divide Trails; perhaps you’re also familiar with Vermont’s Long Trail or the 1000-mile Mountains to the Sea Trail next door in North Carolina. But what about a long trail right here in our own state?

Yes, Virginia, as of August 2011, we have a well-documented draft of a conceptual plan for a trail system that will blow you away! The James River Heritage Trail. It’s not only a proposed hiking, running, and biking path, but a canoeing, kayaking, rafting water trail, a study in geological evolution, a history corridor of indisputable national treasures from our Native American legacy, to Captain John Smith’s voyage and the first English settlements, through the Revolutionary War, slave history, the Civil War, water dependent industrial and agricultural growth–including the James River and Kanawha Canal–up through the Civil Rights era.

The JRHT would also be endless miles of wildlife, of birding, fishing, snorkeling, backpacking, camping or horseback riding opportunities, connecting rural and urban locales. And what’s so promising about this vision is that much of this projected system is already in place or in development.

The mighty James River is Virginia’s river, and this plan networks the whole 10,432-square mile James River watershed, which is entirely (a smidgeon’s in WV) within our state’s borders, from the Alleghenies to the Chesapeake Bay. (Proposed) Vision: “The James River Heritage Trail is a network of communities that share their traditions, history and lifestyle to foster sustainable recreation and stewardship of treasured landscapes and local waters, trails and byways.”

Read now and get excited! Then get busy! For more information and updates, go to the James River Heritage Trail website and sign up for the James River Heritage Trail E-News.

Read this article in its entirety in Virginia Living Magazine online here.

If rivers, wildlife and preservation interests you, you can learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program here.
The next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA! You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Come Get The BZZZZ!

2012-01-05T15:53:00.003-05:00

Start the year offby getting in the know, honey

BRFAL, the localchapter of Virginia Master Naturalists has invited Dr. Ronald Hanawalt to givea lecture on Honey Bees which is open to the public.

The talk will begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday January19th at the SMLA office (400 Scruggs Rd, Moneta VA).

Come get the bzzzz!

Dr. Hanawalt obtained his BS and PhD degrees from Rutgers University with major interests in plant ecology and soils. His research has dealt with inorganic nutrient distribution between soils and native plants in contrastingecosystems. His university teaching included a variety of ecology and soils courses.

The first part of the talk will trace the development of a new nest by a swarm of bees. Often, a hollow tree that is sheltered from predators and weather can provide a home for honey bees. The chosen cavity is then cleaned and a comb built. In these cavities the bees have evolved a nest structure to meet their survival needs. Brood rearing and food storage areaccomplished in this remarkable wax comb. The first year is critical to the swarm's survival as they must build the comb, raise more bees, and store food whilesuitable flowers are in bloom.

Man has long been a predator of the bee's brood and honey supply, Ancient cave paintings show people climbing to rob honey bee nests. Robbing of bee trees is still an important foodgetting activity for humans in several parts of the world. During the middle ages bee trees were equipped with doors and annual harvests became possible. Such trees were "owned" and laws applied to beekeepers. Since it is easier to stand on the ground than climb a tree toharvest,piecesofhollow logsbecame"bee gums" and later sawn boards became common enough to use as bee hives.

The seminar is free, but advance registration is requireddue to limited space. Reservations canbe made by email contact@brfal.org or by phone at: 540-365-4613. Certified Virginia Master Naturalists willget Advanced Training Credit for attending this seminar.

Thisis also a good time to indicate your interest in becoming a Virginia MasterNaturalist by participating in the 2012 Basic Training Course:

Sessions will be held from 6 PM to 8:30 PMTuesdays at the Franklin Center in downtown Rocky Mount, beginning, March 8th throughMay 24th. Five Saturday field trips arealso planned. Topics covered include:geology, entomology, aquatic ecology, plants, reptiles, amphibians, birds,mammals, etc. All with a Virginiaemphasis. More information, includingapplication forms is available on our website.

Leave No Trace Upcoming Events at Philpott Lake

2012-01-01T08:29:00.000-05:00

Center for Outdoor Ethics has invited you to join them for "Leave No Trace Awareness Programs" at The Philpott Lake Visitor Center!

Enjoying the outdoors responsibly

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics teaches people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. The Center achieves its mission through education, research, partnerships and volunteerism.

BRFAL projects - wanna get involved?

2011-12-30T09:01:00.000-05:00

Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists have a few projects up their sleeve!

Master Naturalists get involved!

Here is a partial list of some of the volunteer projects BRFAL Members are involved in:

Virginia Save Our Streams: Water quality monitoring
Boones Mill Elementary: After School Science Project
AT Mega-Transect Chestnut Count
Bluebird Nest Box Monitoring on the Blue Ridge Parkway
CoCoRaHS (Weather Station Monitoring)
Emerald Ash Borer Monitoring at Booker T Washington National Monument
Gill Creek Stream Ecosystem
Invasive Aquatic Weed ID Project
Invasive Species Education & Control
Inventory of Chestnut Trees on the Blue Ridge Parkway from Mills Gap Overlook to Great Valley Overlook
The Walnut Run Eastern Box Turtle Project
Various Types Of Bird Watching/Monitoring
Vegetation Community Delineation of Booker T Washington National Monument
Water Quality Monitoring - Smith Mountain Lake
Water Quality Monitoring at Booker T. Washington National Monument
Wood Duck Box Project at Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Smith Mountain Lake Buffer Landscaping

If any of these interest you, you can learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program here.
The next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March 2012 at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA! You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

We hope to see you at the next training!

The difference between a butterfly and a moth? Could it be the Paunch?

2011-12-28T16:35:00.002-05:00

The Virginia Master Naturalist symbol is the butterfly. I found these amazing images on Pinterest and thought they might brighten your day and New Year ahead!

Read more »

Master Naturalist 2012 Training Course Scheduled in Rocky Mount!

2011-12-20T11:12:00.000-05:00

TheBlue Ridge Foothills And Lakes (BRFAL) Chapter of the Virginia MasterNaturalist program (VMNP) is taking applications now until Feb 15, for the 2012basic training course.

The classes willbe held at the Franklin Center in Rocky Mount, Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:30PM beginning March 6 until May 24th. Additional field trips will be held on Saturdays March 17 & 31, Apr 14& 28 and May 5 & 19. Thelocation of Saturday field sessions will vary based on the topic beingpresented. The total cost of theprogram, including materials, is $100. This fee also entitles each participant to aone-year membership in the BRFAL Chapter of the VMNP.

TheBRFAL training program is designed to prepare individuals as Certified Virginia Master Naturalistsfor the statewide corps of master naturalist volunteers carrying out the VMNPmission of “providing education, outreach and service dedicated to thebeneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within theircommunities”. As such, it will providethe background knowledge and opportunity for skills development necessary to beeffective as a volunteer Certified Virginia Master Naturalist.

Tobecome a Certified Virginia MasterNaturalist, a trainee must:

Complete 40 hours of basic training, which includes a minimum of 25% time in the field;
Pass the open-book training assessment with a score of 70% or higher;
Complete 8 hours of approved advanced training designed to focus volunteer efforts on one or more specific topics of interest; and
Complete a minimum of 40 hours of service in a BRFAL approved project within 12 months of the completion of the basic training program.

Tomaintain certification, a Certified Virginia Master Naturalist must complete anadditional 8 hours of advanced training and 40 hours of service annually.

Spaceis limited for this course which covers topics such as: aquatic and terrestrialecology; taxonomy of plants, mammals, fish, insects, amphibians, reptiles andbirds; geology and soil science and others. If you, or someone you know, are interested in participating pleasevisit the website below. Perhaps a home-made "gift certificate" wouldbe welcome.
Directions to the Franklin Center in Rocky Mount VA here
Rocky Mount is the land between the lakes, just 19 miles from Roanoke and in the shadow of the Blue Ridge. Rocky Mount, the county seat for Franklin County sits at 1200 feet in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Applicationforms and additional information, including the draft syllabus on the VirginiaMaster Naturalist Program and the Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter, canbe found here. For otherquestions about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program and/or BRFAL Chapter,please call (540) 365-4613 or contact us through the web site.

*This is a press release by Carl Boast and can also be found in our local papers.

Are there Wood Ducks at Smith Mountain Lake?

2011-12-18T12:46:00.010-05:00

IF YOU BUILD IT THEY WILL COME
Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Virginia Master Naturalists rebuild/replace wood duck boxes at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Female Wood Duck

Male Wood Duck

Eastern Box Turtle Mapping

2011-12-13T08:43:00.000-05:00

The Citizen Scientists of the Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter are involved in another cool project!
Jim & Denise Pilversack have contributed over 50 hours to Eastern Box Turtle Mapping in 2011.

One of the 182 Eastern Box Turtle sightings documented by the Pilversacks

Meet the Giant Weta

2011-12-11T08:33:00.000-05:00

As a total diversion from Virginia wildlife I wanted to share with you info and photos of the Giant Wetapunga from New Zealand (which was in the news of late).

The Giant Weta is the heaviest insect on the planet

We All Live Downstream...

2011-12-09T08:48:00.000-05:00

Dan River Basin Association shares this very valuable information with all of us! We All Live Downstream...
Our rivers provide essential water for drinking, fishing, floating and working. The Dan River and its tributaries such as the Smith, Mayo, Banister, Sandy and Hyco rivers are economic engines -- and the very reason many of our communities exist today. Water quality studies show that while our region is blessed with rivers and an abundance of forest cover many miles of our local rivers and small streams need to be protected against pollution, sediment, and degradation.

Trout streams recovering in Nelson, Amherst counties: study

2011-12-06T08:12:00.001-05:00

A recent study shows that acidity in Nelson and Amherst counties’ mountain streams has decreased since 2000 and the streams are now considered sustainable for brook trout.

BRFAL Member Marshall Sediment testing in a Franklin County stream

BRFAL Members Help Save Our Streams

2011-12-05T09:11:00.001-05:00

GOOD BUGS = GOOD WATER

Alongside Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Virginia Master Naturalists

Training Session with Don Kelso (preparing to catch the bugs - macroinvertibrates tell the health of a stream)

Master Naturalists from the Historic Rivers Chapter Amazing Project

2011-12-04T08:31:00.001-05:00

VIRGINIA MASTER NATURALISTS IN THE NEWS!
Congratulations to the Virginia Master Naturalists from the Historic Rivers Chapter on a job well done.

Susan Powell helps cut the ribbon at new Freedom Park Interpretive Center (photo from here)

Christmas Gift Idea for that Birder in Your Life!

2011-11-30T09:40:00.001-05:00

Red and The Peanut - A Cincinnati Birding and Nature Journal shares with us this amazing new book!

A Perfect Gift for that Birder or VMN in your life!

A new kind of birding book! "The Birding Life—A Passion for Birds at Home and Afield"

Kelly wrote: I was very excited when Carly from Clarkson Potter Publishers asked me if I'd like to review "The Birding Life—A Passion for Birds at Home and Afield," by Laurence Sheehan. The book sounded unique. It was about birding, but focused on birds as artistic muses and home decor inspiration! Could a description be any better? I couldn't wait for the book to arrive...

With over 200 photographs and interesting text, "The Birding Life, A Passion for Birds at Home and Afield," by Laurence Sheehan, is sure to be a favorite of birders and avian art lovers...

Read the entire article here with beautiful photographs and learn more about this beautiful book for Birders!
Follow Red and The Peanut blog here - subscribe to get updates on great articles!
Here is the discounted price on Amazon.com and more info about this book!

The next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA! You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here. If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to: contact@brfal.org

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program here. We hope to see you at the next training!

Is 'Brown' the New Green?

2011-11-29T08:15:00.001-05:00

Virginia always looks so green, but at times we too encounter drought
Two years ago the Town of Rocky Mount would not allow us to water any outdoor plants (hanging or otherwise) and began to truck in drinking water. The level at our two lakes was extremely low, boats had to look up to see the docks. Worst case scenario of course was gazing out over the fields upon the Franklin County Farms. This area is predominantly dairy farms, and they got the short end of the stick!

Franklin & Bedford Counties are Dairy Country

Virginia State Parks are for Birders!

2011-11-25T08:43:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Birdginia
Do you know what the Atlantic Flyway is? How is a bird like a tourist in Virginia?

Kiptopeke State Park on the Eastern Shore of Virginia (Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory)

Virginia Places.org says: All birds don't fly into Virginia in the Spring and leave in the Fall - but that's pretty much what happens around Hudson Bay in Canada. When the weather gets tough, the tough get going... south. That's where there's food, unfrozen water, and warm sunshine.

Virginia Junior Naturalist Workbook

2011-11-21T09:32:00.001-05:00

HERE IS SOMETHING SPECIAL WE CAN DO FOR OUR KIDS AND GRAND-KIDS!

Shellie is sharing this from here.

Virginia Junior Naturalist Workbook

Virginia Master Naturalist Chapter Locations

2011-11-20T16:18:00.000-05:00

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BECOMING A VIRGINIA MASTER NATURALIST?
Want to know if there is a VMN Chapter near you?

Chapters are across the state and newly forming all the time!

The Virginia Master Naturalist Program is a chapter-based program. Locally-based chapters hold training and work with partners to organize service projects. Learn more about this program here.

Don't see a chapter near you? With the help of interested citizens, we can add more chapters in 2012. Visit the Chapter Chartering Process page to learn more about how you can bring the Virginia Master Naturalist Program to your community.

Volunteer educators, citizen scientists, and stewards helping Virginia conserve and manage natural resources

Calling all citizen scientists and outdoor enthusiasts - The Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter (BRFAL) of Virginia Master Naturalist next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org or visit our website for the draft schedule of classes here and application form for this program! Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here.

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalists basic training core objectives here.

Five Fledglings Got Their Wings!

2011-11-20T13:08:00.000-05:00

At the Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter meeting last night five Virginia Master Naturalists were presented with their full certification.

Congratulations and well done!

BRFAL Fledglings got hands on training in the field and classroom

Where am I?

2011-11-18T18:24:00.008-05:00

Where am I? Where was I? How do I get back? Are these questions you ever asked yourself when out hiking or biking in unfamiliar territory & terrain? Well I'm pretty sure many of us Master Naturalists have asked that question many times over.

In the "Olden Days" (a couple of years ago), we would generally rely on maps and a compass. But as

Fairfax Master Naturalists in the News!

2011-11-17T10:21:00.001-05:00

Fairfax Master Naturalists Named Cooperator of the Year

Local group recognized for their volunteer contributions

Quietly, a new cadre of volunteers has been growing in Fairfax County. Since their beginning in December 2007, the Fairfax Chapter of the Master Naturalists have trained their members in the field and classroom. Their 138 active naturalists have contributed countless volunteer hours to environmental projects.

Road salt's second sting

2011-11-15T11:34:00.000-05:00

UNC Asheville biologist learns it harms amphibians - and helps mosquitoes thrive

BRFAL VMN Guy B "Water Monitoring" at Booker T Washington National Monument

By T. DeLene Beeland Correspondent

A leaf, a handful of seed —

2011-11-14T09:39:00.000-05:00

“We are speaking of love. A leaf, a handful of seed — begin with these,learn a little what it is to love.” Truman Capote

By Charlotte Hubbard, VMN
Read more »

Onancock Nature Trail grows 300 feet longer

2011-11-14T07:09:00.000-05:00

VIRGINIA MASTER NATURALISTS IN THE NEWS!

Master Naturalists work on extending Onancock Nature Trail

What are your favorite hiking books?

2011-11-08T16:39:00.000-05:00

Hiking Trip Reports

Favorite Hiking Books

If you’re like me you don’t get to spend as much time on the trail as you’d like. But thanks to many great books we get to experience the outdoors through great novels and non-fiction books as well as location guides and hiking guides. Below are some of my favorite outdoor books. Most are about hiking, but a few are outdoor adventures that have inspired and moved me. If you have a favorite be sure to tell me about it and I’ll include it here for others to find. I would love to talk to authors of guides and outdoor adventure books.

Meet Jeff the Tawny Frogmouth

2011-11-05T10:04:00.000-04:00

As a total diversion from Virginia wildlife I wanted to share with you photos of "Jeff the Tawny Frogmouth" from our cousins in New South Wales, Australia.

The Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) is an Australian species of frogmouth, a type of bird found throughout the Australian mainland, Tasmania and southern New Guinea. The Tawny Frogmouth is often mistaken to be an owl. Many Australians refer to the Tawny Frogmouth by the colloquial names of "Mopoke" or "Morepork", which usually are common alternative names for the Southern Boobook. Frogmouths are not raptorial birds.

Meet Jeff the Tawny Frogmouth mate

Water - the MOST valuable resource on earth

2011-11-02T15:10:00.011-04:00

De English, VMG, VMN, Virginia Save Our Streams

By Meg Brager 11/2/11

On Oct. 22, 2011, a Waterwise Landscaping Workshop was held at W.E. Skelton 4-H Center at Smith Mountain Lake hosted by the Franklin County Master Gardner Association. It included learning sessions on Water Quality and the Home Landscape and Waterwise Plant Selections, as well as a panel presentation of two local water quality projects, Save Our Streams and Buffer Landscaping.

Rivanna Club Wins Grant for Hatton Ferry Project

2011-11-02T10:08:00.003-04:00

Media Release October 28, 2011
The Rivanna Garden Club’s “Hatton Ferry Project” has been awarded the 2011 Common Wealth Award by the Garden Club of Virginia.

The Rivanna Garden Club’s “Hatton Ferry Project” has been awarded the 2011 Common Wealth Award by the Garden Club of Virginia.
Read more »

The Beauty of Pollination

2011-10-31T13:23:00.004-04:00

Sit back and enjoy this magnificent video!

DickLeRoy of our BRFAL Chapter wanted to share this spectacular video of The Beauty of Pollination and it's amazing videography with you.
Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here!

Get involved in something cool, our next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org or visit our website for the draft schedule of classes here.

Lifebox - To People to Planet!

2011-10-29T11:32:00.000-04:00

Last Week at the BRFAL Chapter Mushroom-Man presentation, or as I like to call him "The Mushroom Dude of the Blue Ridge" Skip Taliaferro shared with us something extra special "THE LIFE BOX"

Meet Skip Taliaferro - rock star of the mushroom world!

2011-10-27T08:45:00.000-04:00

Morel – GOOD! Death Cap – BAD!

Did you know there are more variety of wild mushrooms in the Blue Ridge than practically anywhere else?

By Meg Brager

Our local BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists recently invited a guest speaker, Skip Taliaferro (pronounced Tolliver), to our monthly meeting in Rocky Mount to talk about mushrooms, or the science of mycology.
Read more »

Hawk Watching Fun Peaks in October - November

2011-10-26T12:12:00.000-04:00

A VIRGINIA MASTER NATURALIST SHARES SOME VALUABLE INFORMATION ABOUT HAWK WATCHING!

By Marie Majarov

Meg's Hike

2011-10-24T09:47:00.000-04:00

A Fall Hike at Happy Hollow Garden and Carvins Cove by Meg Prager

The Mighty Oak at Happy Hollow (That's my husband Rich)

My husband and I went hiking today to enjoy the fabulous weather we are experiencing, our first stop was Happy Hollow Garden in South Roanoke.
Read more »

Shenandoah National Park Trees and Shrubs

2011-10-22T19:42:00.000-04:00

This September I was able to attend the Statewide Conference for Virginia Master Naturalists held near Charlottesville Virginia.

Shenandoah River from the overlook at Shenandoah River State Park Photo credit: E.Ames Oct 2011

Two of the field trips were hikes up in the Shenandoah National Park. Here is a bit of information on what trees and shrubs we saw on this hike:
Read more »

Today in Franklin County VA

2011-10-20T22:33:00.002-04:00

Shellie took these this evening of the spectacular Fall colors in our Franklin County Virginia

Grassy Hill (taken from Landmark Mountain)

Cahas Mountain to the left (Hwy 220 hidden to the right in this image)

Now you can see why we as Master Naturalists adore this part of the country, and these Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes!

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here! BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today.

Get involved in something cool, our next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org

Got Fall?

2011-10-19T16:14:00.001-04:00

Here are some lovely Fall photos from Meg Brager of the BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist from this week:

Primland Resort at Meadows of Dan, VA

Can you spot the canoe? This is at Fairy Stone State Park

Virginia Naturally

2011-10-18T10:11:00.000-04:00

In 2000, Virginia Naturally was designated as the official environmental education program of the Commonwealth.

Celebrate some accomplishments:

Growing Partnerships:
Virginia Naturally established a partnership program for businesses and organizations that have environmental components or missions as part of their programs. At the end of 2010 the Virginia Office of Environmental Education reported that there are over 900 Virginia Naturally Partners.

Virginia Naturally Schools:
As of 2010, 52 schools have been recognized as Virginia Naturally schools demonstrating exemplary practices in environmental education. Virginia Naturally schools make an effort to support environmental conservation and stewardship. A recognized school must continue to submit an annual plan and add an additional feature to its environmental and conservation plan each year.

Virginia Naturally Grants Program:
In 2002, in an effort to help teachers meet Bay Agreement's educational goals, the Virginia Resource Use Education Council (VRUEC) partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE), and Smithfield Foods to establish and administer the Virginia Naturally Classroom program. Many classrooms around the state are conducting “Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences" thanks to the Virginia Naturally Classroom Grants and Partner Grants. Combined, 748 grants have been awarded for a total of $643,900 involving more than 200,000 students, 1,000 faculty and 800 community partners.

Paddling Thomas Jefferson's River

2011-10-15T18:28:00.000-04:00

The Rivanna River is often referred to as "Mr. Jefferson's River" because Thomas Jefferson grew up on the shores of the Rivanna and later built his Monticello home along its banks.

We were able to paddle this historic river as part of the VM Naturalist Statewide Conference

Sharing Mr. Jefferson's appreciation for this historic river, a group of Fluvanna County residents established The Rivanna Conservation Society (RCS) in 1990.
Read more »

Ribbit! Guide to the Frogs and Toads of Virginia

2011-10-13T12:32:00.001-04:00

Guide to the Frogs and Toads of Virginia Now Available

A Guide to the Frogs and Toads of Virginia is a 44 page field guide that covers all 27 species of frogs and toads that inhabit Virginia. Species accounts, descriptions, biology, behavior, habitats and conservation issues are all described and illustrated through more than 80 photographs and drawings. Included is a complimentary CD of The Calls of Virginia Frogs and Toads. The price is $10.00 and is available through the VDGIF website.

Read the introduction to A Guide to the Frogs and Toads of Virginia »

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here! BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today.

Get involved in something cool, our next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org

Saving the Appalachians from Mountaintop Removal Mining

2011-10-13T11:22:00.000-04:00

What Is Mountaintop Removal?

What You Can Do

Article from Wildlife Promise

Saving the Appalachians from Mountaintop Removal Mining

Click here to read this article

Just sharing this article I thought may be of interest to BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists and all those interested in conservation and environmental issues in these mountains.

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today.

If you are interested in the Virginia Master Naturalist program and want to learn more about it, or when the next training will be held, click here. BRFAL Chapter will be holding the next basic training course beginning in March 2012 in downtown Rocky Mount at The Franklin Center.

VMN in the news

2011-10-12T10:34:00.000-04:00

Learning Garden outdoor art class for kids Saturday

Free program with botanical artist teaches kids to capture nature on canvas

Botanical artist Linda Miller, right, and York County master gardener Carol Bartram, work with a youngster during an earlier botanical workshop. (Courtesy Linda Miller / October 5, 2011)

"The Learning Garden is perfect for this workshop format, especially for children," said Miller. A Williamsburg resident who loves capturing flora in watercolors, Miller is the first artist-in-residence for The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo, N.C. She's also a Virginia master naturalist and avid hiker of wildlife trails in Virginia.

Read the entire article here from Dailypress.com

A reminder of Virginia Master Naturalists out doing what they do, getting involved with their communities and the great outdoors!

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program here. Get involved in something cool, the BFRAL Chapter next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org

Cloudless Sulfur Butterfly

2011-10-10T12:47:00.004-04:00

First in spring, last in autumn

Swallowtail in Rocky Mount VA

To Native Americans, butterflies symbolize joy, color and change. Unwed Hopi girls of the butterfly clan shaped their hair like butterfly wings. For early Christians, this mystical flyer symbolized the soul. In China, it represented conjugal bliss, and in Egypt, butterfly art decorated ancient Egyptian tombs. Today, the magnificent emperor butterfly is Japan’s national emblem.

Although there are earlier traces, butterflies and moths fully evolved about 65 million years ago. The order Lepidoptera includes about 220,000 species, of which nearly 45,000 are butterflies. One of these, the cloudless sulfur, is among the largest of the sulfur butterflies and captivates even casual observers. The cloudless sulfur ranges throughout the Western Hemisphere from America’s southwest to the east coast and as far south as Patagonia. Generally, the cloudless sulfur, Phoebis sennae eubule, is one of the first spring butterflies observed in Virginia and often one of the last to head south.

With a strong, rapid wing beat, stunning yellow males patrol the skies for receptive greenish-yellow or albino females. In late summer or early fall, thousands of cloudless sulfurs migrate north into California, Montana, Virginia and on to Canada. Migrants travel in a direct path, rarely stopping. Instead of returning south, these autumn visitors die in their northern destination. Lepidopterists (scientists who study butterflies and moths) are perplexed by this strange phenomenon.

Read this entire article here in Virginia Living Magazine
See a list of North American butterflies here.

North American Butterfly Association

The Butterfly Society of Virginia

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here! BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today.

Get involved in something cool, our next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org

Don't be kept in the dark! Free public lecture on mushrooms

2011-10-09T09:25:00.002-04:00

Would you eat the mushroom in this photo or not? Come find outwhether it is edible. Thursday October 20th, Franklin Center in Rocky Mount at 8PM. FREE, but prior registration required (see below for details).

NOTE - REGISTRATION HAS CLOSED AS ALL AVAILABLE SPOTS ARE NOW FILLED. Thank you for your interest!

Do you know me?

FREE PUBLIC LECTURE

The Blue Ridge Foothills And Lakes (BRFAL) Chapter of theVirginia Master Naturalist Program (VMNP) announces a free public lecture onmushrooms, Thursday Oct 20th at 7PM in the Franklin Center in Rocky Mount. Speaker Skip Taliaferro is a local amateur mycologist who willprovide information about wild mushrooms -- from how to find them growing inthe woods around Southwest Virginia to which ones are edible. A member ofthe National Mycological Association for at least 8 years, he has been studyingmushrooms for over 20 years. He estimates there are 15,000-20,000varieties in the Blue Ridge Mountain range alone.

NOTE - REGISTRATION HAS CLOSED AS ALL AVAILABLE SPOTS ARE NOW FILLED. Thank you for your interest! ~~The seminar is free, but advance registration is required due to limitedspace.~~ ~~Reservations can be made by email to: contact@brfal.org or by phone at:540-365-4613.~~ Click here for directions. Certified Virginia Master Naturalists will get AdvancedTraining Credit for attending this seminar.

This is also a good time to indicate your interest in becoming a VirginiaMaster Naturalist by participating in the 2012 Basic Training Course which willbe conducted from the first week of March to approximately the 20th ofMay. Classes are held on Tuesday nights from 6:00 to 8:30 PM and severalSaturday field trips are included. Topics covered include: geology,entomology, aquatic ecology, plants, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals,etc. All with a Virginia emphasis. More information will becomeavailable on our website: www.brfal.org and also on this blog!

While attending the seminar you will also have the opportunity to peruse aBRFAL Phenology Calendar which you can order (cost $12 ea). Thesecalendars have regional specific information regarding plant and animal lifecycles and their relationships with weather and climate. Photos in thecalendar were taken by BRFAL members. Calendars will be distributed byNov 18th. They are informative and make great gifts!

The BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside,explore and learn something new, so plan to attend this event. See youthere!

Virginia Birding and Wildlife Guides

2011-10-08T13:16:00.000-04:00

DISCOVER OUR WILD SIDES!

Discovering Our Wild Side just got a lot easier!

With the entire state now in one book, you won't want to leave this on your coffee table. The new guide provides updated information on all sites, including updated maps and driving directions.

Award-winning artist Spike Knuth created new artwork for the new heavier cover designed for better durability.
Maps now provide page numbers to make it easier to find the loop you want to visit.
Familiar features retained include contact information for each site, listings for local Chambers of Commerce and Visitor Centers, site descriptions, viewing tips and wildlife facts, and updated wildlife festival listings.

So grab your binoculars, guide, and go!

Order yours today online here from DGIF.

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today. Get involved in something cool, learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here!

HUNTING SEASON HAS STARTED - WEAR ORANGE

2011-10-06T09:55:00.000-04:00

BE SAFE - WEAR ORANGE, HIKE ON SUNDAYS!
It's hunting season here in Virginia and that means it's time to break out the orange vests (or brightly color

clothing) when you head out for your next hike, trail run, bike ride, or camping adventure. And don't forget to put a vest on your dog too.

Tips:

A licensed hunter has every bit as much right to be in the woods as you.
Sunday is the safest day to be outside (if you aren't a hunter). It is illegal to hunt on Sundays.
Be visible. Wear bright colors and avoid earth tones. Don't wear white. A flash of white may be mistaken for the white of a deer's tail.
Make yourself heard. Don't be obnoxious, but don't be silent. Just be heard. Talk with your partner, whistle, or wear a bell.
Stick to the trail. Hunters are generally aware of where trails are located.

Seasons:

Visit the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries for an official listing of hunting seasons, regulations, and standards. This list is incomplete and only covers the more popular hunting seasons.
Err on the safe side and assume it is hunting season anytime between October 1 and January 1.
Deer firearms season is the most popular: 11/19 - 12/17 (depending on the county).
Deer archery: 10/1-11/18 and 12/5-1/7 (depending on the county).
Deer muzzleloader: 11/5-11/18 and 12/17-1/7 (depending on the county).
Turkey firearms: 10/29-11/11, 11/24, and 12/5-12/31.

Information shared by RoanokeOutdside.com the website that is everything outside! Click here to learn why the Roanoke Region is outdoor area on the East Coast!

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here! BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today.

Get involved in something cool, our next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org

Recycling is Good Works in Action

2011-10-05T17:14:00.000-04:00

Discovery Shop tops $1.15 million mark
By REBECCA JACKSON, Smith Mountain Eagle

For seven years, the Smith Mountain Lake Discovery Shop in The Plaza shopping center has turned the donations of individuals, businesses and the High Point Market into $1.15 million in gross proceeds for the American Cancer Society.

"We're very excited," said volunteer and shop manager Margot Realmuto. "2011 has been a banner year for us. We've earned more than ever, and exceeded our business plan. Financially, this has been a very good year. I'm thrilled.

The shop and its 180-plus volunteers and customers celebrated Sunday with a birthday observation.

Visitors were treated to free cupcakes and punch.

There also was a drawing for an American Girl doll outfit and wardrobe cabinet.

In conjunction with the shop's birthday and October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Salon One next door is offering discounts on hair services for Discovery Shop customers. Also, salon owner Eddie Blankenship will hold drawings at the end of October, selecting customers for hair coloring, shampoo and set, manicures and pedicures, as well as other services offered at the salon.

The shop boasts a great inventory of upscale used and new furniture, unique home accessories, glassware, paintings and framed prints, books, children's toys, kitchenware, sporting goods, including golf accessories, and small appliances. The Lake store, the only American Cancer Society store in the country that operates with all volunteers and no paid staff, does not stock clothing. For those in search of a deal on fine apparel can go to the Roanoke Discovery Shop in Townside Plaza.

The Lake store is managed by a committee of three volunteers, with one manager rolling off he committee every year.

It's ideally situated in the Plaza shopping center, which does a brisk business. The shop is located between Salon One and Curves for Women and near a couple of restaurants. Many shoppers who patronize the Discovery Shop do business with the entrepreneurs close by.

The business mix here helps everyone.

To read more of this and other stories, pick up a copy of this week's Smith Mountain Eagle on newsstands or subscribe online or by calling 719-5100. A year's subscription, which is just $26 in Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania County, also gives you free access to the Smith Mountain Eagle's e-edition, an online version of the entire newspaper.

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists say "Congratulation to the Smith Mountain Lake Discovery Shop for putting the pedal to the metal, for recycling and repurposing some great stuff and it going for a good cause!"

Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here! BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today. Get involved in something cool, our next basic training will be held at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount beginning March 2012, feel free to email us for more details: contact@brfal.org

Got Trees Virginia?

2011-10-05T12:33:00.002-04:00

VDOF Online Tree Seedling Store Open!
Virginians looking to plant trees on their land in the spring will have to go no farther than their computer. The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) opened its online tree seedling store today.

Got trees?

This year, VDOF has expanded the quantities of its offerings. Seedlings are now available in bundles of 10 and 25; previously, the smallest quantity of bareroot seedlings available was 50.

“Adding smaller quantities allows us to meet the needs of some of our customers,” said Josh McLaughlin, nursery forester. “Not every customer is planting 100 trees or more. Some [landowners] want to add trees to their property, and since they have a smaller area to plant, they want to make a purchase without buying large numbers of seedlings that they can't use. The 10 and 25 quantities mean we're offering what our customers are looking for.”

The VDOF's two tree nurseries grow and sell 24 million tree seedlings each year.
State Forester Carl Garrison said, “Our tree nurseries cultivate, pack and ship some of the best species available - something we've been doing for the citizens of the Commonwealth for 92 years.”

Virginians who are interested in purchasing tree seedlings can log onto the VDOF website at www.dof.virginia.gov and order from the more than 40 species available. The online store also includes information to help landowners choose the right species, as well as pricing and shipping details. A seedling price guide, with a mail-in order form, is also available at any VDOF office. The local office for our area is 483-5330.

The Virginia Department of Forestry protects and develops healthy, sustainable forest resources for Virginians. Headquartered in Charlottesville, the Agency has forestry staff members assigned to every county to provide service to citizens of the Commonwealth. VDOF is an equal opportunity provider.
With nearly 16 million acres of forestland and more than 144,000 Virginians employed in forestry, forest products and related industries, Virginia forests provide more than $27.5 Billion annually in benefits to the Commonwealth.

The Virginia Department of Forestry protects and develops healthy, sustainable forest resources for Virginians. Headquartered in Charlottesville, the Agency has forestry staff members assigned to every county to provide service to citizens of the Commonwealth. VDOF is an equal opportunity provider.

With nearly 16 million acres of forestland and more than 144,000 Virginians employed in forestry, forest products and related industries, Virginia forests provide more than $27.5 Billion annually in benefits to the Commonwealth.

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and see something new today. Don't forget your camera!

If you are interested in the Virginia Master Naturalist program and want to learn more about it, or when the next training will be held, click here. BRFAL Chapter will be holding the next basic training course beginning in early March 2012 in downtown Rocky Mount at The Franklin Center. email: contact@brfal.org for more info!

Coal and Water in Central Appalachia: The Challenge to Balance

2011-10-04T08:37:00.002-04:00

2011 Water Research Symposium

The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center

Blacksburg, Va. - November 15, 2011

The institutes for water resources in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentuckyare pleased to announce this one-day symposium that will focus on the challenges of balancing the management of coal and water in central Appalachia.
Read more »

Featured Blog - Baystride Images Journal

2011-10-03T12:58:00.000-04:00

I was sharing this blog "Baystride Images Journal" by John Gresham with a fellow BRFAL Chapter member and thought it would be nice to share it with you!

John Gresham is a Wildlife Enthusiast/Birder (as well as an Education Support Specialist at York River State Park) who takes some gorgeous photos of the world around him, especially the coastal estuaries of Virginia. I follow his blog and have added it to our favorite blog list on the right side panel of this blog!

John wrote on his blog article titled "Marsh Magic":

A Williamsburg Photography Meet-up group member along Taskinas Creek by John Gresham

Virginia is for... volcanoes?

2011-10-03T08:52:00.000-04:00

Virginia is known for many things, from its beaches to its mountains, its farms and universities.

But volcanoes?

True enough, Virginia has a quirky if still unexplained history with volcanic activity, one of the few East Coast states that can make that claim.

Mole Hill is surrounded by farms, many owned by Mennonite families, on the outskirts of Harrisonburg. The summit, about 1,900 feet above sea level, is covered by thick scrub and forest. (Jane Harper | Special to The Virginian-Pilot)

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today.

If you are interested in the Virginia Master Naturalist program and want to learn more about it, or when the next training will be held, click here. BRFAL Chapter will be holding the next basic training course beginning in March 2012 in downtown Rocky Mount at The Franklin Center.

Farms Dominate Landscape Here

2011-10-02T15:37:00.000-04:00

Despite Pockets of commercial and residential development, farms remain the dominant feature in Franklin County's landscape.

Franklin County farm facing east and fall scenery

Franklin County ranks eighth among Virginia's 95 counties in the amount of farmland, according to the most recent U.S. Census of Agriculture.
Franklin County has 166,592 acres of farmland, according to the census.
Bedford County ranks fifth with 212,237 acres.
Franklin County also ranked among the top 10 counties for Virginia Farm income, according to the census.
The average Farm in Virginia generates $61,334 worth of sales according to figures from the national Agriculture Service (NASS).
The average size of a Virginia farm is 171 acres, according to NASS.

The BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist visited a local Dairy Farm as part of their basic training last Spring and saw the day to day operations. I cannot commend our local Farmers enough for all they do to produce quality dairy products for us!

IF YOU ENJOY YOUR FOOD - THANK A FARMER!

If you are interested in the Virginia Master Naturalist program and want to learn more about it, or when the next training will be held, click here.

Be careful! It’s a jungle out there!

2011-09-30T10:11:00.004-04:00

MEET THE BRACKEN FERN

Bracken Fern

By Meg Brager

Observe Plants and Animals

2011-09-25T16:43:00.002-04:00

Nature's Notebook is a national plant and animal phenology observation program
Taking the pulse of our planet

You can join thousands of other individuals who are providing valuable observations that scientists, educators, policy makers, and resource managers are using to understand how plants and animals are responding to climate change and other environmental changes. Your observations will make a difference!

Read more »

25+ Nature and Wildlife Mobile Apps

2011-09-23T09:31:00.000-04:00

Do you have a smart phone and want to use it to explore nature? The saying, “there’s an app for that,” rings true in this case. I’ve tested out a number of smart phone applications, and I must say they really can help you find nature, identify, share and enjoy the wildlife you’ve seen.

This is a sister post to “Fantastic Wildlife and Nature iPhone Apps,” and, while you’ll notice a few repeats, I decided to extend the mentions to a few new ones! I’ve linked mostly to the iPhone applications, but most of them have an Android counterpart.

Read this article with links and information on Nature and Wildlife Apps from Wildlife Promise here.

Mobile Apps to Help You Find Parks and Trails

Sometimes, in order to see wildlife and feel close to nature, you have to find it, so that’s what these applications help you do.

Examples: NatureFind

Price: Free

Find the closest parks, forests and nature centers with this application. It also will tell you local events that the places are hosting. This application is incredibly useful regardless if you’re in a city or surrounded by suburban houses.

Wildlife Sightings and Citizen Science

WildObs Observer

Price: Free

When it comes to wildlife observations, there are several useful apps and WildObs is one of my favorites. It makes it very easy for you to report your sightings and identify species, and your observations show up on National Wildlife Federation’s Wildlife Watch website. It’s one of the only apps that allows you to report sightings without having a photo and it also tags your location if you so desire.

BRFAL Presentation to Retired Teachers

2011-09-20T19:28:00.004-04:00

Connie Hylton is both a member of the Franklin County Retired Teachers Association and the Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter (BRFAL) of the Virginia Master Naturalists. At our recent monthly BRFAL meeting, as usual, Connie had her thinking cap on and suggested that someone from BRFAL attend one of the Teachers Association meetings and give a brief presentation to them to explain what BRFAL and VMN is all about to spur some interest and perhaps find a new VMN candidate or two.

Now you have to know a little about how things work at our monthly BRFAL meetings. Just even think about volunteering for something and the next thing you know, you are it! Well that’s what happened to me! So before I knew it I was responsible to put together a 15-20 minute PowerPoint presentation and present it to the retired teachers.

So with some great cooperation from Michelle Prisby, Guy Buford, Jim Pilversack and Connie Hylton, I managed to take existing PowerPoint presentations and pare them down to fit into the allotted timeframe.

Blue Ridge Parkway Wildflower Report for September 20th, 2011

2011-09-20T16:12:00.000-04:00

TOUCH-ME-NOTS!

Shellie took this image here in BRFAL country VA

It is mid-September and depending on your location you may find a few signs of fall color on some trees along the Parkway. This is just a reminder to the display that always arrives here in the mountains around the middle of October. Generally the fields full with this time of year with Black-eyed Susan, Joe-Pye weed, Queen Anne's Lace, Ironweed, Goldenrod and in some places great displays of Cardinal Flower in wet areas.

What about Dan?

2011-09-19T14:45:00.000-04:00

Do you know the history of the Dan River? Did you know there are well-preservednineteenth century river structures now on the National Register of HistoricPlaces?

Leaksville Bridge Piling, Dan River

DRBA (Dan River Basin Association) is having a a 5-mile cleanup float on the Dan River from Whetstone Creek to Eden on October 1. The cleanup ispart of NC Big Sweep, the statewide component of an international watershedcleanup. Participants record the types of trash they find, contributing tostatistics that help design educational programs to prevent littering.
Read more »

The most beautiful bird in North America is here in the SE

2011-09-16T14:33:00.000-04:00

I read the article shared by NWF "Environmental Graffiti" magazine 7 Most Beautiful Birds on Earth. I was pleased to see I have met a few of them, living down under such as the Rainbow Lorikeet, and now living in the SE in the USA I know the Painted Bunting (binomial name is Passerina ciris).

The article speaks of the Painted Bunting as the most beautiful and spectacular bird in North America. That is quite an honor. Tony Leather writes:
Read more »

Feeding Deer is Illegal in Virginia

2011-09-14T20:34:00.000-04:00

Reminder: Effective September 1, Feeding Deer is Illegal in Virginia

Effective September 1, it will be illegal to feed deer statewide in Virginia. The annual prohibition runs through the first Saturday in January. In addition, it is now illegal to feed deer year-round in Clarke, Frederick, Shenandoah, and Warren counties and in the city of Winchester as part of the Department's chronic wasting disease (CWD) management actions established in April 2010.

This regulation does not restrict the planting of crops such as corn and soybeans, wildlife food plots, and backyard or schoolyard habitats. It is intended to curb the artificial feeding of deer that leads to negative consequences.

DCR Natural Heritage Program 25th Anniversary Field Days!

2011-09-12T10:42:00.002-04:00

Explore some of Virginia’s best-kept natural areas Oct. 8

Grassy Hill, Franklin County

Ryan Klopf - Mountain Region Steward, Virginia Natural Heritage Program Time: 10 a.m.

Location info here
Read more »

The Virginia Department of Forestry needs your help!

2011-09-09T10:38:00.000-04:00

COLLECT SEEDS AND ACORNS!

The Virginia Department of Forestry needs your help to continue producing quality seedlings for Virginia landowners. Virginia-grown seed generally produces trees that will grow well in our state. Every year, homeowners from all over the state donate acorns and other seed to help us produce the next season’s crop. Seed collection is a great activity for children and adults! It also allows individuals to learn more about Virginia trees. Every year, homeowners spend countless hours raking up acorns and wonder what to do with them. We have the answer... donate your acorns to the Virginia Department of Forestry!

Species Needed for 2011

Read more »

Create a Certified Wildlife Habitat

2011-09-06T03:35:00.000-04:00

Turn Your Yard Into a Haven for Wildlife!

By providing food, water, cover and places for wildlife to raise their young, your garden can join the nearly 140,000 Certified Wildlife Habitat™ sites across the country.

Start here to certify your habitat >>

Whether you have an apartment balcony or a 20-acre farm, you can create a garden that attracts beautiful wildlife and helps restore habitat in commercial and residential areas. By providing food, water, cover and a place for wildlife to raise their young--and by incorporating sustainable gardening practices--you not only help wildlife, but you also qualify to become an official Certified Wildlife Habitat™.

How to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

What is that thing?

2011-09-05T15:55:00.003-04:00

I found two of these things! The first was stuck by our side door. I didn't think much of it. I thought it was something that blew off a tree and just got stuck by the door. I threw it off the deck. But when I saw the second one hanging from our garden hose hanger I said "hummmf, this must have be something put here by a creature!"

But what creature? With a little research assistance from my wife Meg, we determined that this was most likely a "bag" from the bagworm moth. The "bags" are constructed from silk and natural materials such as sand, soil, lichen and plant materials. The one in our yard looks like they copied the design from a native hut. Shellie thought it looked like a hula skirt.

Some species of bagworms are considered pests causing significant damage to certain plants. If you would like to do some more research, we looked at the following sites:

Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagworm_moth
University of Nebraska:
http://lancaster.unl.edu/hort/bagworms.shtml
If you think this was built by something other than a bagworm moth, please let us know. We are anxious to learn. Thanks.

Rich Brager

Chowing down on invasive species

2011-09-04T10:56:00.000-04:00

Kudzu salad with hydrilla vinaigrette, anyone?

Like the saying goes, when life hands you lemons, makelemonade. Instead of bemoaning ourinvasive species, maybe we should be developing a taste for them. Read below...

Introducing the vine that ate the south, Kudzu. Don't leave your car parked there for very long.

From a NY Times article by Elisabeth Rosenthal (Read thefull article here)

Answer for Invasive Species: Put It on a Plate and Eat It

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/10/science/earth/10fish.html

An invasive species, the lionfish is devastating reeffish populations along the Florida coast and into the Caribbean. Now, anincreasing number of environmentalists, consumer groups and scientists areseriously testing a novel solution to control it and other aquatic invasivespecies — one that would also takes pressure off depleted ocean fish stocks: theywant Americans to step up to their plates and start eating invasive critters inlarge numbers.

“Humans are the most ubiquitous predators on earth,” saidPhilip Kramer, director of the Caribbean program for the Nature Conservancy.“Instead of eating something like shark fin soup, why not eat a species that iscausing harm, and with your meal make a positive contribution?”

Invasive species have become a vexing problem in theUnited States, with population explosions of Asian carp clogging the MississippiRiver and European green crabs mobbing the coasts. With few natural predatorsin North America, such fast-breeding species have thrived in American waters,eating native creatures and out-competing them for food and habitats.

While most invasive species are not commonly regarded asedible food, that is mostly a matter of marketing, experts say. Imagine menuswhere Asian carp substitutes for the threatened Chilean sea bass, or lionfishreplaces grouper, which is overfished.

Article shared by Rich and Meg Prager, BRFAL Chapter Members of Virginia Master Naturalist.

September kicks off Fall Stewardship Virginia campaign

2011-09-03T18:07:00.000-04:00

An official press release of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation

September kicks off Fall Stewardship Virginia campaign

Volunteers at our Virginia State Parks making a difference!

(Richmond, VA)— Stewardship Virginia, a statewide campaign to encourage and recognize voluntary activities with a tangible impact on Virginia’s natural resources, continues its ninth year with events across the state. The campaign features activities in the spring and fall. The fall portion runs through October 31.

First ever Virginia State Parks digital photography contest

2011-09-03T15:25:00.000-04:00

In conjunction with Virginia State Parks 75th Anniversary celebration, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation will hold an amateur photography contest.

Prizes totaling more than $8,000 will be awarded to winners in each category and the photographer will have their work used in various Virginia State Parks brochures and advertising for all to enjoy. Share your love of photography and Virginia State Parks by entering this contest.

Canoes and Cabin at Hungry Mother State Park (Marion VA)

Read the article with information on how to enter and what amazing prizes are in store here.

CONTEST LINK HERE

DCR is a sponsor of the Virginia Master Naturalist Program, we appreciate their support!

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today. Get involved in something cool, learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here!

9/11 National Day of Remembrance at Virginia State Parks

2011-09-02T10:58:00.002-04:00

If you are looking for a way to remember 9/11 and give back - Virginia State Parks will have a Day of Service/Day or Remembrance where everyone can come out and share their patriotism and love for America.

Click here for the article and list of parks. Many people do not realize Virginia was also hit on 9/11 as the Pentagon is in Virginia.

Buffer landscaping – protecting Smith Mountain Lake from us

2011-08-31T13:19:00.001-04:00

We hope you enjoy this informatiive article by Virginia Master Naturalist BRFAL Chapter member Meg Brager on Buffer Landscaping at Smith Mountain Lake. Click the link at the end for more information

A basic physics lesson - everything up there will end up down here

Walking Home - a Book Review

2011-08-26T14:25:00.001-04:00

Walking Home: A Traveler in the Alaskan Wilderness, a Journey into the Human Heart by Lynn Schooler.
I am reviewing this book I just finished with its many insights into the natural world as I feel Virginia Master Naturalists and those interested in the great outdoors would enjoy this book!

Publisher's description:
In the spring of 2007, hard on the heels of the worst winter in the history of Juneau, Alaska, Lynn Schooler finds himself facing the far side of middle age and exhausted by laboring to handcraft a home as his marriage slips away. Seeking solace and escape in nature, he sets out on a solo journey into the Alaskan wilderness, traveling first by small boat across the formidable Gulf of Alaska, then on foot along one of the wildest coastlines in North America.
Read more »

Can you name this flower in two petals or less?

2011-08-24T10:38:00.003-04:00

Charlotte who is one of our BRFAL Chapter Members found an interesting discovery in her own backyard!

Can you identify this wildflower? Charlotte could!

Thanks to a lack of mowing and to VMN training, I have discovered a new wildflower in my Callaway area back yard.
Read more »

BRFAL Projects 2011

2011-08-19T09:11:00.001-04:00

The Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist are involved!
Some of the projects the members are involved in reach from After-School Science Workshops at Local Schools to Buffer Education to Gill Creek Stream Ecosystem Monitoring.

BRFAL Training is given on all projects

Got bird questions? There's an app for that

2011-08-16T09:30:00.000-04:00

Curious about a bird?
App answers your questions!

It isn’t always enough just to watch birds — bird watchers are always asking questions about them too. WHY is that cardinal attacking my car? WHY don’t birds fall off branches as they sleep? WHY is bird poop white?
Read more »

COMING SOON! Phenology Calendar makes a great gift for Nature Enthusiasts

2011-08-10T11:14:00.040-04:00

This is a pre-order recommendation from the BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist, as we will be compiling and selling a phenology calendar with original photographs from the BRFAL Chapter member's Kodak moments in the wild!

Hey maybe I should enter my oyster mushroom? I already sent a wildlife image though

Can you Identify this Virginia Bird?

2011-08-08T15:15:00.001-04:00

A striking black-winged red bird, it is a common species of the eastern forest interior.

Despite its brilliant coloring it is often overlooked because of its rather secretive behavior and its preference for the forest canopy.

Quite possibly the greatest film ever made "Microcosmos"

2011-08-06T21:03:00.026-04:00

WITH A TINY CAST OF THOUSANDS!

Plot Summary
A documentary of insect life in meadows and ponds, using incredible close-ups, slow motion, and time-lapse photography. It includes bees collecting nectar, ladybugs eating mites, snails mating, spiders wrapping their catch, a scarab beetle relentlessly pushing its ball of dung uphill, endless lines of caterpillars, an underwater spider creating an air bubble to live in, and a mosquito hatching. Written by Will Gilbert
Read more »

Do you know this spider?

2011-08-06T13:30:00.000-04:00

Budding Virginia Master Naturalists have eyes on everything from macro to micro!
Meg and Rich sent this image to share with us of a spider they saw recently and found very interesting! They snapped this photo in Hardy Virginia.

Recognize me?

Rich said "Since we got this picture from the bottom of the spider, it was a little harder to ID but pretty sure it is a jeweled spider also called a horned orb weaver."

Click here for more images and info on what Meg and Rich believe is this very same spider! Feel free to comment on this blog (below) and share your thoughts!

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today. Get involved in something cool, learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here! (Don't forget your camera, you never know what you might spot in the wild!)

Get out of Dodge!

2011-08-05T11:45:00.001-04:00

Read this article with beautiful photographs from VirginiaOutdoors.com, which features the blog articles of Virginia State Parks!

Virginia State Parks is one of the sponsors for the Virginia Master Naturalist program. We thank them for their sponsorship and encouragement to get outside!

A change of scenery

By Shellie Anne

My Dad used to always say two things "Get out of dodge" and "get a change of scenery." Now that he has left the rat race of the city and retired here in these Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, he has different favorite sayings that we hear, often.

But as a kid, that change of scenery-thing used to perplex me. Now that I am married and have a family of my own, working, living, busy, stressed, it all makes sense to me. Some days the daily grind is just that, a real grind, on your nerves, on your feelings and emotions, and even on your heatth! Every once in a while it does a body good to get out of dodge, to enjoy a change of scenery.

Mother Nature's Soundtrack

2011-08-04T11:44:00.000-04:00

It turns out Mother Nature provides a better soundtrack than any random shuffle on an iPod could come up with!
Some of the hits you may hear:

Born to be wild
Free bird
Wild thing
Shake, rattle and roll
Down by the river
and more...

by JENNIFER HORTON

Read this great article in the Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine here
Visit the Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine online here

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist wants you to get outside, explore and learn something new today. Get involved in something cool and take your family and friends with you! Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist program here

9th Annual Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition

2011-08-03T15:47:00.003-04:00

SAMPLE ENTRY FROM LAST YEAR

Butterflies: Walk and Talk in York County

2011-08-03T10:47:00.001-04:00

Butterflies: Walk and Talk teaches you about butterfly anatomy Saturday in York County

Find out more about attracting and identifying butterflies on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2011, from 10 a.m. until noon at New Quarter Park.

A Butterfly Walk and Talk will be led by Barb Dunbar, York County Master Gardener, Virginia Master Naturalist, and York County Junior Master Gardener leader. Bring the kids or grandkids to this event to enjoy Barb’s butterfly anatomy lesson as you make a butterfly out of candy that you can eat later.

Read the entire article here from Dailypress.com

Sharing Virginia Master Naturalists in the news, out and about doing great things!