all taxa biodiversity inventory conference in gatlinburg

Everyone is invited to join the many Great Smoky Mountain National Park supporters and admirers in our celebration of the discovery of life in some of our country's most biologically diverse mountainous national parks.  Our annual All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) conference this year is titled, "Invasive Species:  The Biggest Threat to Biodiversity?"  A cast of Discover Life in America staff, Park staff, and dedicated volunteers are committed to making this gathering a memorable one for those who are interested in the discovery of new plant and animal life, and the science that supports this valuable endeavor.
This year's conference will provide informative activities for everyone.  Activities will include:
?    ATBI science talks
?    Smokies’ air quality update
?    Smokies’ save the Hemlocks update
?    Silent and live auctions to raise funds to help support the Smokies’ATBI
?    A nature photographer workshop
?    A full day for Educators at all levels
?    Workshops that include:  GPS use session, Schoolyard ATBI, Grant writing, Lost proofing, Waterbears, How to write a NSF grant, Citizen Science, “Getting everyone Involved,” and much, much more!
?    Scientific poster sessions
?    Fantastic field trips
?    Keynote address and a reception with celebrated, invasives biologist, Dr. Daniel Simberloff
?    Updates from ATBI’s across the country
?    The conference culminating event is “The Great Smoky Mountains Salamander Ball” at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies!
The All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory is a unique ecological undertaking to find and document every species of life in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, from ferns and fungi to birds and beetles.   The effort began in 1998 and is serving as a model for efforts to document the diversity of life throughout the nation—at other National Parks, State Parks, and in other preserves, large and small. 
To date over 900 species have been identified that are new to science and over 6,400 species have been identified that are new records for the Smokies! 
For a more detailed schedule; registration forms; or to volunteer...see conference info (schedules, times, special events) at www.dlia.org  Questions and/or to register for the conference, please contact Heather MacCulloch, at Discover Life in America, 865-430-4756 or e-mail at heather@dlia.org.