When: October 13, 2026 @ 4:00 pm
Explore the magical world of mosses during this hands-on event
Beginner bryologists (moss scientists) are invited to marvel at mosses! These tiny plants can live almost anywhere, including places like our windowsills and sidewalks. They may seem like green fuzz, but when we zoom in a little, they look like mini trees and ferns. There are even little animals living in the moss, like mites and water bears! During this event, budding naturalists will get up-close and personal with a variety of local, native mosses. We will learn how to tell them apart from each other using magnifying glasses, and discover why they are important to our forests.
This event will occur from 4:00pm-5:00pm at the Village Green in Cashiers. The program is free and open to the public, and no registration is required. This event is geared towards children 5-12 years old, but we welcome attendees of all ages! Email Skye ([email protected]) with any questions.
Please note: all mosses are safe to touch and handle, and though they are not edible, none are poisonous. As a precaution, parents are requested to to keep an eye on their young children as they explore the mosses. Thank you!
MEET YOUR TEACHER
As Mainspring’s Conservation Outreach Director, Skye Cahoon inspires people to connect with their local landscape and value the conservation efforts that protect it. As a kid, she could often be found climbing trees, hunting for salamanders, or chasing fish at the swimming hole. Her passion for nature grew with her, and in 2020 she earned her Zoology B.S. from the University of Maine. Integrating her experience in wildlife research with her excitement about the natural world, Skye now strives to make science fun and accessible. She leads a variety of educational programs here at Mainspring, and enjoys continuing to learn about the diverse and fascinating creatures that call the Southern Appalachians home.
