Etowah Library Speaker Series: Wildflowers of the Cove Forest: Ecology, Adaptations, and Hidden Stories

Date: March 25, 2026

Time: 2:00 pm

Location: Etowah Library

Speaker: E.J. Dwigans, Forest Ranger and an environmental educator with the North Carolina Forest Service

Join us for an engaging, photo presentation exploring the rich diversity of wildflowers found in Southern Appalachian cove forests, with a special focus on Holmes Educational State Forest. This one-hour talk will dive into the ecology of these lush, species-rich forests and the wildflowers that thrive within them. We’ll explore how spring ephemerals and other forest herbs survive in shaded environments, the fascinating ways wildflowers are pollinated and disperse their seeds, and the unique adaptations that allow them to take advantage of brief windows of light and moisture. Along the way, you’ll learn fun facts, natural history stories, and ecological connections that reveal why cove forests are among the most botanically diverse ecosystems in North America.

E.J. Dwigans is a Forest Ranger and an environmental educator with the North Carolina Forest Service, where he has worked for the past nine years at Holmes Educational State Forest. During that time, he has explored and studied every corner of the forest’s ecosystems and leads annual guided wildflower hikes for students and the general public. His work focuses on helping people build meaningful connections to the natural world. E.J. grew up near Uwharrie National Forest in Randolph County, North Carolina, and developed an early passion for the outdoors through scouting.

In addition to his educational work, E.J. serves as a Public Information Officer for the North Carolina Forest Service and most recently supported wildfire response and public communication during the Black Cove Complex wildfires in Polk County. He believes strongly in the role of environmental education in fostering long-term stewardship of North Carolina’s forestland.

*Space is limited and pre-registration is required by visiting the Etowah Library’s calendar of events at this link.

The Etowah Library Speaker Series programs are made possible thanks to our partnership with the Henderson County Public Library.

Contact Pam Torlina, pam@conservingcarolina.org, with questions or for more information.