LIFE IN OUR STREAMS

LIFE IN OUR STREAMS — Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Laurel Community Center • 4100 NC Hwy 212, Marshall, NC

What lives in our Western North Carolina streams? How do we know when a stream is healthy—or recovering after floods or pollution? How are forests and streams linked? What makes a trout stream “tick”? Find out when the WREN Center hosts Life in Our Streams, a one-day workshop exploring the essentials of stream ecology.

This event is for anyone who loves streams and rivers—anglers, boaters, snorkelers, naturalists, and resource professionals who want to learn more. Madison County’s Laurel River watershed includes 222 miles of Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) streams, and the creek is right outside the door at LCC.

Taught by stream ecologists Dave Penrose, Mary Kelly, Pat Ciccoto, and Vlad Gulis, the day includes engaging presentations and outdoor demonstrations featuring live stream fish, insects, fungi, and microorganisms. Learn how aquatic food webs work and how healthy forests help sustain clean, resilient waters.

The workshop highlights the Laurel River system, but the content applies to streams across WNC.
Registration is $20 & includes lunch.

Also check out other Workshops in Marshall.