News Release

Guided Bird Walk with Dr Chuck Nicholson, April 27 at Big South Fork

NPS

News Release Date: April 22, 2024

Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

In celebration of the 24th Annual Spring Planting & Music Festival, the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area announces a birding walk with Dr. Charles P. Nicholson on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Participants will meet at the Bandy Creek Campground swimming pool at 8:00 AM (ET).

Dr. Nicholson has over 35 years of birding experience on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee, including the Big South Fork area. He is an active member of the Tennessee Ornithological Society and has served as president and editor of its journal. Dr. Nicholson studied birds for his PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology and is the author of the Atlas of Breeding Birds of Tennessee, the comprehensive source book on the distribution and biology of the birds nesting in this state. He has also taught a course in birdwatching in the University of Tennessee non-credit program for several years and led numerous birding field trips.

The Spring Planting Festival is one of the many ways to join the Big South Fork throughout 2024 in a year-long celebration for its 50th anniversary! From new park waysides and interpretive programs to special events and nights under the stars, there’s an activity for everyone. Visit the Bandy Creek Visitor Center for a copy of this year’s Go BIG Challenge booklet, information on upcoming programs and annual photo contest, and a great selection of limited-edition anniversary items!