Date: January 16, 2027

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Location: Anne Elizabeth Suratt Nature Center at Walnut Creek Preserve

Speaker: Laura Stevens and Douglas Rao, North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies in Asheville, NC

How is a warming climate affecting the plants, wildlife, and landscapes of Western North Carolina? Scientists from the North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies share the latest insights on climate impacts—from shifting seasonal cycles to changing species migrations—and what these transformations mean for the place we call home.

Laura Stevens is an Asheville-based Research Scientist with the North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies—an NC State University research institute. Her primary role involves analyzing changes in both past and future climate in support of several global and national climate reports, including the State Climate Summaries and the North Carolina Climate Science Report. Laura has a passion for climate communication, education, and outreach, and enjoys presenting to both K-12 students and adult lifelong learners!

Douglas Rao is a Senior Research Scientist with the North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies in Asheville, NC. He applies long-term satellite observations and climate model simulations to understand the climate impacts to the ecosystems and the communities. His passion about outdoor exploration drove his research path from applied mathematics to climate science. Douglas enjoys birdwatching, hiking, and talking with the public about science!

RSVP is requested below, but not necessary to attend the event! Please join us!

The Walnut Creek Preserve Speaker Series programs are made possible thanks to our partnership with the Preserve.

*Walnut Creek Preserve is private property and guests are only allowed on the property by invitation (a planned event or scheduled group).  Thank you.

Contact Pam Torlina, pam@conservingcarolina.org, with questions or for more information.