The Highlands Biological Station is a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University consisting of academic research, teaching, and residential facilities as well as a natural history museum (Highlands Nature Center) and a 12-acre native plant botanical garden (Highlands Botanical Gardens). The Highlands Biological Station is primarily University-supported, with additional funding provided by grants, program revenue, and the non-profit Highlands Biological Foundation, Inc. Our mission is to foster research and education focused on the rich natural heritage of the Highlands Plateau, while preserving and celebrating the integrity of the “biological crown of the southern Appalachian Mountains.”
HBS realizes its mission of education and research broadly through (1) support of scientific research and graduate training, (2) an annual program of accredited field biology courses for undergraduate and graduate students (3)hosting visiting academic groups, and (4) a diverse outreach programming for regional K-12 schools and the local community.
- Year Founded
- 1927
- Year Joined OBFS
- 2010
- Size of Field Station (hectares)
- 1-100
- FSML Web Address
- https://highlandsbiological.org/
- Private nonprofit organization?
- No
- Universities affiliated / Parent Organization
- Western Carolina Univeristy
- Federal, state, or local governmental partners?
-
Other: University/College
- Member of the Virtual Field
- No
News And Updates
Summer Courses Are Open at Highlands Biological Station!
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with our friends at Highlands Biological Foundation and beyond — registration is now open for our upcoming summer courses at Highlands Biological Station!…
Calling summertime researchers!
Applications are now open for our Grant-in-Aid of Research program, supporting independent projects during the upcoming summer season. 🔗 Learn more & apply: https://highlandsbiological.org/grants-in-aid-of-research/📅 Deadline: March 1, 2026 Have an…