Talks & Presentations

Carrie offers educational presentations for groups interested in learning more about trees, plants, and the landscapes around them.
These presentations are designed to be clear, engaging, and accessible — helping audiences of all backgrounds begin to recognize the plants they encounter every day.
Who Presentations Are For
Carrie regularly presents to:
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Garden clubs
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Conservation groups
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Parks and recreation programs
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Community organizations
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Schools and educational institutions
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Homeschool groups and independent learning communities
Presentations can be adapted to fit the size, experience level, and interests of each group.
Topics
Each presentation is shaped to meet the needs of the audience, but common topics include:
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Tree and plant identification
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Learning and remembering scientific names
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Observing seasonal changes in the landscape
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Recognizing, understanding, and managing invasive plants
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Learning to “read” the landscape through patterns and relationships
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Understanding how plant choices affect birds, insects, and local wildlife
Talks can be general introductions or more focused explorations, depending on the setting.
Teaching Approach
Carrie’s presentations combine careful science with accessible teaching and practical field knowledge.
Using photographs, examples, and clear explanations, she helps audiences:
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Notice key identifying features
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Understand patterns across plant families
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Build confidence in recognizing plants
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Connect plant knowledge to real landscapes
The goal is not simply to present information, but to give people tools they
can carry with them — into their own yards, local parks, and natural areas.
Indoor & Outdoor Options
Carrie is based in western North Carolina and is often able to travel to nearby counties and surrounding areas. She welcomes inquiries from organizations, schools, and community groups interested in hosting a presentation, class, or field-based learning experience. Her programs are well-suited for:
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Indoor settings such as meeting rooms, classrooms, and evening programs
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Larger audiences or groups with limited mobility
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Times when weather or daylight make outdoor learning difficult
When appropriate, indoor presentations can also be paired with a field walk to reinforce learning through direct observation.
A Broader Purpose
Beyond identification, these talks often open the door to a deeper understanding of the landscapes people live in. As audiences begin to recognize plants, they may also begin to notice:
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How ecosystems are changing
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Where invasive species are spreading
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How land use decisions affect plant communities
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What supports healthy, resilient landscapes
In this way, learning becomes a foundation for awareness, appreciation, and stewardship.

Honorarium
Typical honorarium range: $200–$600, depending on format, preparation, and travel.
For nonprofit, educational, or conservation-focused organizations, Carrie may choose to adjust or waive fees.
Invite Carrie
to Speak
If your organization is interested in hosting a presentation, please reach out through the Contact page with details about your group, location, and interests.
