Grandfather Mountain hosts ocean conservationist Julia Roberson July 19

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN, NC (July 12, 2018)…The mountains and the sea are closer than you may think.

Julia Roberson, vice president of communications for the Ocean Conservancy, will discuss their relationship and much more at a special after-hours event at Grandfather Mountain.

Her appearance, taking place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 19, is part of the Grandfather Presents lecture series. Refreshments will be served until 6:30 p.m., and guests will have the opportunity to talk with Roberson following the presentation.

“I am excited to have Julia speak at Grandfather Mountain, because she offers insight into the health and conservation needs of our planet’s oceans,” said Amy Renfranz, director of education and natural resources for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that owns and operates the Linville, N.C., nature park. “Oceans are a driving force in overall climate, and they connect continents. What flows down the river in Watauga and Avery counties will eventually flow into the ocean.

“The same goes for communities across the planet. Julia aims to inspire us to be better stewards of our rivers, oceans and planet overall.”

Renfranz described Roberson as an energetic and passionate speaker. According to her bio, Roberson’s passion is “taking complex issues that affect our ocean and figuring out how to make them real and relevant to people.”

People who don’t live near oceans should still take an interest in their well-being, Renfranz said, including High Country residents and visitors.

“For one, the oceans drive weather and climate patterns,” she explained. “On a more personal note, our daily behavior affects the health of oceans in direct ways. Grandfather Mountain is at the headwaters for four major river systems, all of which flow into oceans. If trash is not disposed of correctly, it will wind up in an ocean. Ocean life — sea turtles, whales and birds — depend on us being good stewards of our rivers.”

Admission to Grandfather Presents: Julia Roberson costs $20 for general admission and is free for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club. Space is limited, meaning registration is required by emailing judi@grandfather.com or calling (828) 733-2013.

To learn more about the Grandfather Mountain Bridge Club, or to become a member, visit www.grandfather.com/preserving-protecting/become-a-member/.

The not-for-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For more information, call (800) 468-7325, or visit www.grandfather.com to plan a trip.