CRADLE OF FORESTRY IN AMERICA INTERPRETIVE ASSOCIA Georgia … · 201 GEORGIA PROGRAM REPORT 84 attendees Friday, July 19 Snakes of Georgia KATHY CHURCH Georgia is home to one of

Georgia Program ReportCRADLE OF FORESTRY IN AMERICA INTERPRETIVE ASSOCIATION

2019

ANNA RUBY FALLS & BRASSTOWN BALD

The mission of the Cradle of Forestry in America Interpretive Association (CFAIA) is to promote educational, recreational and interpretive opportunities about forest and water resources, natural history, and the Cradle of Forestry in America.

The CFAIA has operated as the concessioner at

Anna Ruby Falls since 2008 and Brasstown Bald

since 2012. Prior to the CFAIA operating Anna Ruby

Falls and Brasstown Bald very few educational or

interpretive programs were being offered to visitors.

Therefore, providing quality and innovative programs

at these locations has been a top priority in our

operating plan from day one.

With a vast array of topics such as Snakes of

Appalachia, Geology, Fly Fishing and Astronomy

being offered, it is easy to see that there is something

for every visitor, and this is only the beginning. With

a new Education Manager position for our Georgia

locations in place, CFAIA plans to build on our

current docket of programs and activities and carve

out a niche as the premier education nonprofit for

the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and

USDA Forest Service.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

North Carolina

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ALL CFAIA EVENT AND LOCATION PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KRISTA ROBB UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.

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Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area is one of the most visited sites in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, welcoming approximately 200,000 visitors per year. With plenty of open spaces and natural beauty, this pristine and accessible site lends itself well as a natural, open-air classroom for students and visitors of all ages.

Over the past five years, the CFAIA has steadily

increased the number of programs being offered

at Anna Ruby Falls with minimal staff or outside

help until this season. Since our 2015 season,

programs at Anna Ruby have grown from 8 total

with 1,529 participants to 36 programs and over

3,100 participants as of our current season. Most

of the programs offered are free with admission

to the site and many are offered in partnership

with other educational organizations such as

Georgia Mountain Falconry and Save the

Hemlocks Foundation.

Anna RubyFALLS

*MOST PROGRAMSPHOTO BY PHOTOJC123, FLICKR.COM

350% INCREASE IN PROGRAMS

SINCE 2015

3,100+ VISITORS REACHED

THROUGH PROGRAMS

FREE PROGRAMS WITH PARK ADMISSION*

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April 27 & May 19

Fly Fishing for Mountain TroutSTEVE HUDSON

Steve Hudson, a writer, teacher, lifelong fly fisherman, says he may have the best

of all possible jobs—one that lets him share the excitement of the outdoors with

others. An award-winning journalist and illustrator, he has written extensively on

fly fishing, fly tying, hiking and travel. Steve’s newest book, CHATTAHOOCHEE

TROUT, is a 328-page guide that’s been called “the definitive work on fishing for

trout in the Chattahoochee River.” This comprehensive volume covers all of the

river’s trout water —the headwaters and the upper Hooch as well as the upper and

lower tail water—and is an invaluable resource for anyone who fishing for trout in

the Chattahoochee. Visitors met Steve at Anna Ruby Falls to discover the fun of

fly fishing!

FREE with admission 84 attendees on average

Saturday, May 18

Falconry ProgramBUSTER BROWN WITH GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FALCONRY

After four decades as a successful teacher/

coach at both the high school and college

level, Buster has turned his love for raptors

and falconry into a business. Now, as a Master

Class falconer he is training hawks and falcons

instead of athletes. Visitors had a chance to

get up close and personal with some of

Georgia's most majestic birds of prey at Anna

Ruby Falls. Georgia Mountain Falconry and their

trainers introduced visitors to an unforgettable

experience where they met and learned about

exotic and native Georgia raptors such as owls,

falcons, and hawks.


The falconry program was awesome! My grandchildren learned about the diet, lifespan and habits of these gorgeous birds.

May 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 23, 30 June 4, 7, 11, 14, 20, 25

In Search of the Foxfire Night HikesIs it magic? Fairies? An inexplicable scientific phenomenon?

No—it’s Orfelia fultoni, the only bioluminescent species of fly found in

North America. The larvae live in stream banks among moss and rock

cavities, such as the area along the Anna Ruby Falls Trail. Visitors joined

us for a nighttime hike and educational experience in May and June to

view the unique summertime phenomenon nicknamed “Foxfire.”

A guided hike up to the falls for nighttime viewing

and exploration was enjoyed by visitors.

$7 Adult $3 Ages 10 & under 55 attendees per hike on average 769 attendees for all hikes

May 30, June 21, July 12, August 26, September 2

Living History Days HARDMAN FARM REENACTORS

Civil War veteran Captain Nichols and his wife

Kate built their home at the currently-named

Hardman Farm in Helen, GA. Captain Nichols

and his daughter Anna Ruby loved heading out

on the trail and riding horses together. It was

on one of their excursions that they discovered

the incredible and inspiring double falls

system we know as Anna Ruby Falls. Participants

were able to discover the rich heritage of the

falls and its cultural connection to Hardman

Farm, the state historic site just south of Helen.

Visitors met the unique personalities of the

Hardman Farm era as reenactors strolled the

grounds of Anna Ruby Falls in period dress

telling tales of their legacy.

FREE with admission

113 attendees per day on average 565 total attendees

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The Foxfire program was an amazing adventure, wonderful guide, thank you.


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Saturday, June 1

Hemlock DaySAVE THE HEMLOCKS FOUNDATION

The local nonprofit Save Georgia’s Hemlocks

had an education station near the visitor

center to assist visitors in learning what’s killing

our beautiful hemlocks and how we can help

save them. Special presentations were given

at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. Healthy hemlocks

saplings were available for adoption.

www.savegeorgiahemlocks.org

FREE with admission 132 attendees

Saturday, July 13

A Black Bear Morning TOM HENNIGAN

Black bears are an iconic and magical creature of the North Georgia Mountains.

It’s hard to believe at one point they were almost extinct due to loss of habitat

and over-hunting. Over the past 50 years, black bear populations have made a

dramatic comeback due to wildlife management efforts and hunting regulations.

Tom Hennigan, Organism Biology professor and ambassador for the North

American Bear Center offered an engaging program as well as touch and feel

displays for visitors at Anna Ruby Falls Visitors Center.


Friday, July 19

Snakes of GeorgiaKATHY CHURCH

Georgia is home to one of the highest

diversities of snakes in the US. Their roles as

both predator and prey make them unique,

as well as their presence being an indicator

of a healthy ecosystem. Visitors met a few

varieties of snakes, introduced to them by

Kathy Church, Interpretive Specialist for

Smithgall Woods State Park. Educational

displays were set up at the Visitors Center

for discovery at visitors own pace.


August 9, 16, 23, 30

Fascinating Forest FridaysVisitors had the opportunity to interact with nature by joining staff at

the Visitors Center for an Anna Ruby Falls-centric discovery touch table.

Interpretive education staff had cultural and natural objects for

participants to touch and learn more about.


PHOTO BY TIM LUMLEY, FLICKR.COM


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Saturday, August 10

Smokey Bear’s 75th Birthday Celebration

Visitors joined us at Anna Ruby Falls to celebrate Smokey’s

75th Birthday! They visited the falls and enjoyed desserts, drinks,

and so much more! There was even a visit from Smokey himself!


Monday, August 26

Appalachian Music with Blue Ridge ThunderThe music of Appalachia has deep roots in northeast Georgia.

Signature styles of old time and bluegrass music were pioneered

by musicians from the region. Visitors were able to relax and

enjoy traditional Appalachian music shared by local band,

Blue Ridge Thunder.


Event made possible in partnership with

Hardman Farm State Historic

Site

September 14, October 12, November 12

Fireside Storytellin’ and Full Moon HikeHARDMAN FARMS STATE PARK

In the magical holler of Anna Ruby Falls, visitors gathered around the campfire

with renowned North Georgia storytellers, Emory Jones, Garrison Baker, and

the Hardman Farms Living History Group. They heard stories of our wise ol’

mountains and intriguing characters that make this place unique. As the full moon

rose, visitors were guided up the rambling creek trail to the serene sounds and

moonlight glow of the beautiful Anna Ruby Falls. Pre-registration was required.

$20 Adult 17 attendees on average $10 Ages 15 & under

Sunday, September 22

Geology Walk and Native Plant CommunitiesBILL WITHERSPOON AND LESLIE EDWARDS

Geologist Dr. Bill Witherspoon, co-author

of Roadside Geology of Georgia and bio

geographer Dr. Leslie Edwards, co-author of

Natural Communities of Georgia, teamed up

September 22 to lead a nature walk at Anna

Ruby Falls near Helen. Both books “take the

general reader to Georgia’s natural wonders

and explain the science that lies behind the

scenery,” according to Witherspoon. The event

began at 1:00 at the Visitor Center, with an

activity geared to teach young and old about

native plants. Pre-registration was requested.



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Saturday, September 28

Sunrise Yoga: Flow at the FallsVisitors brought more energy and vitality to their bodies with

a morning flow yoga class at the base of Anna Ruby Falls!

They reconnected with mind, body and nature as they took

in the serene beauty and relaxing sounds of a magnificent

double waterfall while doing yoga. The morning started

with the birds as visitors took a short stroll on a paved creek

side path, winding their way up through the forest to the

observation deck where this one-of-a-kind class was held!

$18 admission 11 attendees

Saturday, October 12

Solar DayGuests discovered what makes the sun tick with The

Atlanta Astronomy Club as they were guided through using

a telescope with special solar viewing lenses. The event

started at 11:00 a.m. and lasted until 3:00 p.m.


PHOTO BY STEPHEN RAHN, FLICKR.COM

Gazers of the Galaxy is an amazing show. We have come two years in a row now and loved it both times.

This is something we hope continues in years to come.


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PHOTO BY KOSTYA KARTAVENKA, FLICKR.COM

BrasstownBALD

*MOST PROGRAMS

118% INCREASE IN PROGRAMS

SINCE 2015

2,286 VISITORS REACHED

THROUGH PROGRAMS

FREE PROGRAMS WITH PARK ADMISSION*

Brasstown Bald offers a truly unique experience as the highest peak in Georgia. Approximately 100,000 visitors per year come from miles around for the stellar view, hiking trails and visitor center and are pleasantly surprised to find fun activities and informative programming as well.

Since our 2015 season, programs at Brasstown Bald

have grown from 11 total and 835 participants to 24

programs and 2,286 participants as of this season.

Most of these programs are free with admission with

the exception of the Brasstown Bald signature

program, “Gazers of the Galaxy” which is presented

by local Georgian Astronomer, Alex Langoussis.

This completely unique experience offers 360

degree unobstructed views of the dark, Georgia

night sky, constellations, planets and more.

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Saturday, May 18

Hungry Birds of Northeast GeorgiaATLANTA AUDOBON SOCIETY

The search for food is a common survival

trait of all living beings. Brasstown Bald, the

first high point along the migration route up

the Appalachian Mountain chain, stands as a

beacon for hungry bids looking to fill up before

their flight. Visitors joined Atlanta Audubon’s,

Melanie Furr, for a special Saturday morning

program about identifying bird characteristics,

habitats, and migration patterns. This program

met at the pavilion next to the general store

at 8:00 am as birds were getting their

worms early.


May 11, June 28, October 4

Gazers of the GalaxyGEORGIA ASTRONOMER, ALEX LANGOUSSIS, FRAS

Have you ever gazed up at the night sky and wondered what was “out there?”

Visitors had a chance to view Brasstown Bald’s scenic vista in a whole new light—

the dark! Visitors met up with our astronomy friends at the highest point in

Georgia to discover the hidden mysteries of Georgia’s darkest sky. Astronomer,

Alex Langoussis, guided visitors through the night, interpreting the wonders of

the universe through his galactic stories and expertise, with the opportunity to

use a high powered telescope. Pre-registration was required for all attendees.

Ages 13+ $20/person Ages 6-12 $10/person 32 attendees on average

This is a wonderful experience. To see things you’ve only ever read about or seen in photos was truly spectacular.

GAZERS OF THE GALAXY VISITOR

SCAVENGER HUNT* Ages: ALL!

~5,000 attendees annually

NATUR AL INQUIRERAges: PreK–12 gradeThe Natural Inquirer program produces a variety of science

education materials for PreK through grade 12. Natural Inquirer

products are produced by the USDA Forest Service, the Cradle

of Forestry in America Interpretive Association (CFAIA), and

other cooperators and partners.


Saturday, June 8

Junior Explorers DayTHE NATURAL INQUIRER & SMOKEY BEAR

Kids and their families were welcomed to participate

in experimenting with real scientific equipment while

conducting nature-based investigations. Presentations,

guided experiences and activities were on-hand

throughout the day. Visitors were able to participate

at their own leisure, activities were available all day.

1:00 PM & 2:00 PM

NATURE SCIENTISTAges: 8+Natural Inquirer presented scientist equipment demonstrations

followed by a nature science investigator activity. Eleven

Forest Service scientists are highlighted in the Nature Science

Investigator activity booklet where students were introduced

to 2-3 hands-on activities for each scientist.

FREE with admission1:30 PM & 2:30 PM

JUNIOR R ANGER*Ages: 8+Kids had the opportunity to play a part in preserving

Brasstown Bald. They each took the oath to protect our

forests, complete games, identify native animals, and learn

about Brasstown Bald’s cultural and natural history.

$3 per child 75 attendees in 2019 (to date)

*Junior Ranger & Scavenger Hunt

activities are offered year round

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A Day in the Life of the Appalachian TrailGEORGIA APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

As morning rises with the sun, the 2,190 mile long Appalachian Trail community wakes up to crisp mountain air and fog rising from the valleys like a hot cup of coffee. The Appalachian Trail, wandering through the mountains from Georgia to Maine, is more than just a trail. It’s a connector of ecosystems and cultures that unites us all.

Visitors arrived at Brasstown Bald Visitor Center &

Recreation Area for a day of AT fun and discovery!

Mountain lovers, never-been-hiking-hikers, day hikers, and

long haul trekkers, all came together to support getting

outside and discovering. All ages, and walks of life were

welcome for a day of community celebration!

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

BR ASSTOWN BALD SUMMIT TR AILVisitors enjoyed events along the mini-AT (Brasstown Bald

Summit Trail) including a children’s scavenger hunt, trail

maintenance demonstration, how to hang a bear bag,

and a typical AT campsite.

FREE with admission 908 attendees for full day

Old Time SaturdaysThe music of Appalachia has deep roots in northeast

Georgia. Signature styles of old time and bluegrass music

were pioneered by musicians from the region. Visitors

were able to relax and enjoy traditional Appalachian music

shared by local musicians, the PB&J String Band.

FREE with admission250 attendees on average

10:30 – 11:30 AM

TR AIL MAGIC: GR ANDMA GATEWOOD STORYMOUNTAIN TOP THEATER

This gripping and inspirational, Emmy nominated “Best Historical

Documentary” had two special showings in our Mountain Top

Theater. With no real equipment and no real experience, the spirit

of the first woman to hike the AT back in the 1950’s lives on!

12:30 PM – 2:30 PM

LEAVE NO TR ACEMOUNTAIN TOP THEATER

AT hiker tales and Leave No Trace Principles

were shared.

10:00 AM

TREK/RIDE TO THE OBSERVATION DECKIn 0.6 mile, visitors got to see the mini-AT. Whether they walked

up the paved trail or walked down from the top, they saw banners

from each of the 14 states that the AT passes thru on its 2190 mile

journey from Georgia to Maine.

11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

CROSSCUT SAW DEMONSTR ATIONS

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

OLD TIME MUSIC

Solar AstronomyALEX LANGOUSSIS

Dominating our daily sky view is a glowing mass of hydrogen

and helium. Our almost perfectly spherical Sun is the most

important star in our solar system and is responsible for

Earth's climate, weather, and sea surface changes. Visitors

had the chance to safely take a closer look using a special

solar telescope.


APPALACHIAN TRAIL DAYSaturday, June 29

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Saturday, July 27

Rattlesnakes of AppalachiaORIANNE SOCIETY

Rattlesnakes are one of the most

misunderstood predators in the Blue

Ridge Mountains, and they also happen

to be local residents to Brasstown

Bald Mountain. Dr. Chris Jenkins, snake

researcher and CEO of the Georgia-

based Orianne Society, presented a

slideshow talk “Rattlesnakes of

Appalachia” along with a meet-n-greet

with one of our native slithery friends.


Saturday, August 3

Bat Meet & GreetGEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Bats...our insect-eating mammals of the

night! Like many predatory mammals, bats

sleep during the day, sometimes bedding

down in trees, barns, or even your house.

Often unseen and yet important to our

ecosystem. Georgia Department of Natural

Resources Wildlife Tech, Emily Ferrall,

joined visitors at Brasstown Bald to

unveil the secret nightlife of bats, plus

up-to-date research currently being

conducted by citizens and scientists

in Georgia.


June 15 & August 10

Lessons from a Black Bear: Myths and RelationshipsTOM HENNIGAN North American Bear Center

Black bears are an iconic and magical creature of the north Georgia

mountains. As far as the eye can see, hundreds of black bears comb the

forest for berries, grubs, moths, and animal matter. While they are indicators

of a healthy forest, their presence can often be feared and misunderstood

by humans. How does our understanding of a black bear’s habits and

habitat effect our relationship with them? Visitors joined in for a special

presentation in the Mountain Top Theater with Tom Hennigan, organism

biology professor and ambassador for the North American Bear Center.

They explored the use of trust - not tranquilizers in bear research. Touch

and feel displays were available to enhance the sensory experience.


Tuesday, July 9

Tap into Your ForestCALLIE MOORE Director of the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition

KRISTA ROBB Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association

National Forests are managed for many reasons, including outdoor recreation,

clean air, and wildlife habitat. One of the initial purposes was to protect our

nation’s water resources. An ecologically turbulent history over the past 100+

years in North Georgia has demonstrated a greater need to protect our forest

watersheds now and for generations to come.

Visitors joined an engaging walk & talk with Callie Moore, Director of the

Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition and Krista Robb, Education Manager for the

CFAIA. The journey started with scenic views atop Brasstown Bald where visitors

got a bird’s eye view of the Hiwassee watershed. They learned about modern

day water conservation efforts, as well as the science and history of the National

Forest surrounding Georgia’s highest point. The program ended with a visit to

the site’s spring-fed water system and a refreshing glass of mountaintop water.


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August 7, 14, 21, 28

Wonder WednesdaysVisitors were encouraged to interact with

nature at the discovery table! Once a week,

education staff were set up with displays

highlighting unique features of the forest.

Table specimens and samples change with

each session.


September 11, 25, 28

Conservation Pioneer ProgramThrough strife and struggle, through revitalization and powerful conservation

actions, it was a Forest Ranger's duty and calling to lead in protecting the

mountainous landscape of North Georgia for the benefit of all. Experience the

stories of how some of the most diverse and forested public lands in the world

came to be. Participants joined Forest Service staff for a Mountain Top Theater

presentation introducing a few of the first Forest Rangers of the Chattahoochee-

Oconee National Forest.


Saturday, September 21

Brasstown Bald Natural HeritageIsolated by elevation, Brasstown Bald is an island in the sky. Sitting 3,000 ft.

higher than the valley below, you’ll find unique combinations of plants and

animals, all influenced by the geology underneath them. Small and sometimes

undetected differences in air, water, and food create a one-of-a-kind ecosystem

in Georgia. A truly unique area and habitat!

Visitors enjoyed a geology and natural communities walk n’ talk with

Geologist Dr. Bill Witherspoon, co-author of Roadside Geology of Georgia and

bio-geographer Dr. Leslie Edwards, co-author of Natural Communities

of Georgia. The authors tag teamed a specially crafted presentation,

“A Window through Time: Geology and Nature at Georgia’s Highest Summit,”

in the Mountain Top Theater, followed by a book signing and a walk along

the mountain. There was also a table full of hands-on information and

activities. Pre-registration was highly recommended.

$5 adults - $3 kids 12 & under 20 attendees on average

Saturday, October 12

Raptor RendezvousGEORGIA MOUNTAIN FALCONRY

Georgia Mountain Falconry and its bird of prey

handlers brought a variety of native and non-

native raptors to the Brasstown Bald Visitors

Center for visitors to meet and greet throughout

the day. Two special presentations on raptors

and the art of falconry took place

at Noon and Three O’clock in

the mountain top theater.

Visitors were allowed to

take photos.


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21 RECREATIONAL SITES

800,000+ VISITORS PER YEAR

150 PROGRAMS & EVENTS

CRADLE OF FORESTRY IN AMERICA INTERPRETIVE ASSOCIATION49 PISGAH HWY. SUITE 4 | PISGAH FOREST, NC 28768

WWW.CFAIA.ORGWe would like to thank our partners at the US Forest Service for helping to make our mission a reality.

Documents

CRADLE OF FORESTRY IN AMERICA INTERPRETIVE ASSOCIA Georgia … · 201 GEORGIA PROGRAM REPORT 84 attendees Friday, July 19 Snakes of Georgia KATHY CHURCH Georgia is home to one of