In the New River Gorge spring begins with the first solitary bloom of a skunk cabbage, bloodroot, or trout lily by the riverside in early March. The reason for this diversity of plants stems from the varied topography of the gorge, the northern flow of the New River that provides a pathway for southern plants to migrate and grow along the warmer sheltered riverbanks, and the higher elevations of the gorge that provide habitat for northern species. Besides providing essential habitat for endangered mammals, rare birds and amphibians, a dedicated botanist can find over 1400 species of plants in these park sites. New River Gorge National River and area West Virginia State Parks help preserve this unbroken and globally significant section of the Appalachian forest ecosystem. So what is so special about this area, the cause for such celebration? The New River Gorge has the most diverse flora of any river gorge in central Appalachia. This event highlights the glories of the season and our shared stewardship of these natural treasures at New River Gorge National River, Tamarack, Babcock, Hawks Nest, Little Beaver, and Pipestem Resort state parks. This weekend's 11 thannual New River Gorge Wildflower Weekend is a celebration of this amazing natural heritage, April 25 – 27, 2014. Spring in West Virginia highlights one of the earth's greatest natural treasures, the biologically diverse southern Appalachian forest. Glen Jean, West Virginia, April 21, 2014.
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