September 1: Support Wild South Non-Profit

Posted 8.29.12

Birds of prey, wolves, reptiles and all manner of wild life will be the focus of Wild South’s Wild Things Weekend on Saturday, September 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Pack Place in downtown Asheville.

This fundraiser for Wild South’s educational outreach programs features live animal shows, award-winning wildlife films, and interactive exhibits from a wide range of outdoor businesses, environmental educators, and conservation groups.

Learn from wolf expert Rob Gudger and his pack of wolves, explore the important role that birds of prey play in our environment, and hear Cherokee animal stories from historian and storyteller Freeman Owle. Other presenters include Steve O’Neil with his reptiles and amphibians as well as special guest John Rucker and the “Turtle Dogs.”

Wild South is a non-profit grassroots organization whose mission is “to inspire people to enjoy, value, and protect the wild character and natural legacy of the South,” according to its official statement.

“Our goal at Wild South is to inspire people to value and protect wild places and wild things.  Our wildlife education and outreach events help accomplish this in a fun-filled atmosphere that everyone can enjoy,” said Ben Prater, Associate Director of Wild South.

This year’s International Wildlife Film Festival films include, “Wilderness North Carolina,” “Red Wolves at the Crossroads,” “Where Bears Belong,” and “The Hunt for Wood Turtles.”  Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the offerings from exhibitors such as REI. Inc., Diamond Brand Outdoors, Wild Birds Unlimited, WNC Nature Center, and High Touch High Tech among many others.

This all-ages event will inform both children and adults. The earlier people can begin to understand our strong connection to and responsibility for the environment and its biodiversity, the sooner they can begin to make eco-friendly decisions that have a lasting impact on our world.

For a $5/person donation, receive full access to presentations and films. For a complete schedule and registration information, visit wildsouth.org.