Birding classes are among the courses offered this fall by the Blue Ridge Naturalist Program

What do hawks, medicinal herbs and biofuels have in common? All are among the topics covered in the Blue Ridge Naturalist Program's fall classes. Some 28 courses are available, beginning September 9. The Blue Ridge Naturalist Program is hosted by the nationally acclaimed North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement located on the UNC Asheville campus. Classes are open to students of all ages.

Outdoor enthusiasts and environmental advocates can enroll in one-day courses or choose classes that meet for up to eight weeks. Students can take up birding, go hiking in nearby old-growth forests, study meteorology, soak up fall colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway or examine how to make their homes more environmentally friendly.

The fall term runs from September 9-December 13. Classes will meet at the Reuter Center on the UNC Asheville campus or in outdoor locations around Asheville. Students who wish to enroll in the outdoor classes must be in good physical condition and be able to walk moderate distances on uneven ground.

Cost for the classes range from $7-$126. Some classes also require the $40 annual membership fee to the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement. Membership benefits include a campus parking permit, access to the University library, discounts on special events and more.

For more information or to register, contact Mike McCreary at 828/251-6198 or mmccrear@unca.edu. A complete course catalog and registration forms are available online at www.unca.edu/ncccr/.