Botanist Jim Sullivan will be at the Smithgall Woods State Park in Helen, Georgia on February 11, 2012 from 12 Noon to 4 PM. He will be discussing and demonstrating how to identify plants in the winter. Along with this study, he will report on the progress of the Eastern Hemlock trees after the treatment of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, a serious pest of the Hemlocks in the eastern United States. The Winter Botany study will also include a short hike to identify flora in the area.

Cost is $10 plus $5 parking. Register in advance by calling 706-878-3087.

Get geared up for the 33rd Annual Hogpen Hill Climb in Helen, Georgia on January 21, 2012. This Run and See Georgia Grand Prix event starts at Unicoi State Park in Helen, Georgia with the Piglet Run, a 5K run at 10 AM and the Hogpen Hill Climb, a 17K run at 12 Noon. The Hogpen Hill Climb is said to be one of the toughest races in North America with over 2500 feet of climbing over the 17K course.

Awards for the overall male and female of each race plus the top 3 finishers of each age group will be given at the post race award ceremony at 4:30 PM at the Unicoi Lodge. All participants will receive a long sleeve shirt.

Registration fees for the Piglet Run are: early – $25, regular – $30, student – $20.
Registration fees for the Hogpen Hill Climb are: early – $30, regular – $40, student – $20.
Early registration ends on January 13, 2012.

Check in and registration begin at 8 AM at the Unicoi State Park Lodge.

This event is being brought to you by Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia and Georgia Runners Magazine. For more information and to register, visit runthehogpen.org.