Weird Science

SPECIAL SUMMER PROGRAMS OFFERED TO YOUNG SCIENTISTS Great Smoky Mountains National Park is offering special programs for youth to participate in science activities on three occasions. July 26 at 2:00-3:30 p.m. – Special Scientists Young scientists, 10 years of age or older, are invited to become “Special Scientists” and learn about some of the tiny creatures that are part of the amazing biodiversity of the Smokies. A park ranger will set up microscopes and other scientific equipment for participants to collect and view microscopic invertebrates such as water bears, also known scientifically as tardigrades. These eight-legged creatures, the “other bears” of the Smokies, exist in mosses, liverworts, and lichens. Young scientists will be surprised and amazed to learn how these critters move, eat, and live their lives. The program will be held at the Twin Creeks Science and Education Center, a 15,000-square-foot impressive environmental-friendly facility that supports the Park’s research and science education programs. July 23 and August 2 – High School Volunteer Days – Half Day High school students, recent graduates, and their families can spend time in the field with a Park Ranger conducting scientific projects such as salamander monitoring, tree identification and mapping, and water quality assessments. These hands on projects provide participants with a specialized field experience that will help Park researchers perform important studies. This experience also provides young people an opportunity to get involved in science and in their national park in a fun and interesting way. For more information and to register for the programs, contact Park Ranger Emily Guss at 865-436-1292 -NPS-