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Date

October 7, 2020

Time

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Age: High School to Adult
Discipline: Biology, Wildlife Conservation, Ecology, Environmental Science
Title: A salamander’s journey along the A.T. in Virginia

Description: Explore habitats along the A.T. in Virginia through the eyes of a salamander. The southern Appalachian Mountains are often referred to as the Salamander Capital of the World, with more species of salamander than anywhere else. Discover how the incredible diversity of salamanders is connected to the varied terrain that the A.T. traverses. We’ll visit several beloved A.T. landmarks and learn what salamander species live there and how their life cycles – from the way they reproduce to how they breathe – is uniquely adapted to the ecosystem they call home. Along the way we’ll learn about aquatic ecology and ways to help amphibians, from the A.T. to your own backyard.

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Presenter bios:

Dr. Kevin Hamed: I joined Virginia Tech’s Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation in August 2019. Much of my research focuses on amphibians, especially Appalachian salamanders, small mammals, and minnows. My research answers questions to provide data-driven foundations for conservation biologists and policymakers. I advocate for experiential learning and work to ensure my students always have opportunities to learn by doing. Prior to becoming a part of the Hokie Nation, I was a biology professor at Virginia Highlands Community College for 16 years. I was awarded the 2017 State Council of Higher Education in Virginia’s Outstanding Faculty Award. I hold a bachelor’s degree in biology from Tennessee Technological University, a master’s in biology from East Tennessee State University, and a Ph.D. in Natural Resources from the University of Tennessee.  When I am not teaching or conducting research, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Misty, and daughter, Maddie.

 

Jo-el Nelson teaches GIS, Aquatic Geology, and Advanced Enironmental Science at the Shenandoah Valley Governors School in Fishersville, Virginia. While her education began on the coast, including a Masters in Marine Biology from UNC-Wilmington, Jo-el has been teaching in the mountains of Virginia for over 15 years. She taught Advanced Environmental Science and Ecology at a local high school for 7 years before joining the faculty at the Shanandoah Valley Governors School. Incorporating the Appalachian Trail into her curriculum has been a natural fit ever since she completed ATC’s Trail to Every Classroom program in 2008.