wildflower, native plant, blossom

Research

There are almost 400,000 species of plants in the world. There is so much to discover and learn to help preserve these plants, the ecosystems they belong to, and ensure a future generation of plant scientists, horticulturists, and naturalists to continue the legacy. The Reserve and our collections are built on a foundation of scientific inquiry. From investigating and conserving plants in the wild to horticultural research, science is integral to all activities at the Reserve. Research at Southern Highlands Reserve is part of who we are. Our research spans from pollinator counts to germination studies to assessing the impact we have in children’s lives.

The Biodiversity Project

This long-term project investigates and measures the contrasts and similarities in biodiversity between our 20-acre Core Park and the natural woodlands surrounding it.

This long-term project investigates and measures the contrasts and similarities in biodiversity between our 20-acre Core Park and the natural woodlands surrounding it.

native plants, pollination, flowers, gardens
Southern Highlands Reserve - Golden Eagle Photo Monitoring Project

The Golden Eagle Photo Monitoring Project

SHR surveyed the activities of Golden Eagles on our land in order to estimate the Golden Eagle population wintering in the Appalachia. With guidance from West Virginia University’s College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design and the NC Wildlife Resource Commission, SHR virtually “trapped” eagles using a digital camera set to take photographs in one-minute intervals.

How can something so strong be so vulnerable?

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Research