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Islands of Biodiversity: Rock outcrop plant communities in the SC UpstateRock outcroppings exist where bedrock breaks the earth’s surface, restricting most woody plant growth and allowing lower plants - subshrubs, herbs, grasses, mosses, and lichens - to thrive. The flora of an outcrop is strongly site-specific, influenced by the rock type, moisture gradient, aspect, and other abiotic factors. Generally embedded within the broader natural landscape of our region, outcrops form isolated yet incredibly important communities that often support specialist plants and animals. This talk offers attendees a tour of various outcrops in the SC upstate, from granitic flatrocks in the upper piedmont to cataract bogs along the escarpment. We’ll discuss the defining components of these ecosystems, explore their physiologic and floristic structure, and learn about the rare, threatened, and endangered species that call these special places home.
Owen Carson has spent the last 15 years as a professional botanist/ecologist with Equinox, an Asheville-based ecological design and planning firm serving the Southern Appalachians. Their work has supported the permanent protection of tens of thousands of acres of public and private land in our region, as well as the ecological restoration of stream and wetland ecosystems. Owen specializes in plant ecology, and spends most of his time documenting the flora, fauna, and natural communities of land slated for conservation, working with local partners such as Conserving Carolina, The Nature Conservancy, and others. Outside of his professional career, Owen is husband to a wonderful woman, father of twins, a dog and cat lover, native plant gardener, rock climber, soccer coach, Democratic candidate for Transylvania County commissioner, and tenkara angler with a preference for wild fish in high mountain streams.
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Event Venue
25 Heritage Green Pl, Greenville, SC 29601-2034, United States
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