Join us for this special double-feature Branch Out event, which combines observation and conversation with naturalist Keith Watson and Smokies Life CEO, Jacqueline Harp!
Become a sparrow sleuth with Keith and peek into the secret life of sparrows. As you explore the fields and forest edges of Cades Cove, Jacqueline will share insights into your impact as a Park Keeper, and how the work of Smokies Life supports Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Learn new skills for this event on our November 11 webinar: Sparrow Identification.
Guides Keith Watson and Jacqueline Harp
Activity Rating Easy Active: A light-impact experience requiring some physical activity.
Distance 1–2 miles (1.6–3.2 km)
Meeting Location Cades Cove Orientation Shelter (view map)
Event Location Cades Cove, Sparks Lane, Hyatt Lane
Settings and Terrain
- Uneven trails
- Potential hazards, including exposed roots, downed trees, and rocks
- Potential wildlife presence, including large fauna, insects, and snakes
What to Bring
For this activity:
- Binoculars
- Applicable field guides of interest
Required gear for all activities:
- Comfortable and sturdy shoes/boots
- Rain gear and dress in layers for potentially changing weather
- Sun protection (sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Trekking poles or hiking staff to aid stability
- Food and plenty of water
About Your Guides
Keith Watson, a native of Sevier County, has over 35 years of national, coast-to-coast birding experience. He began birding as a conservationist in the mid-1970s while attending the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN. While working in NPS units such as Shenandoah National Park and Virgin Islands National Park, Keith promoted and coordinated bird conservation and partnerships. He developed an Avian Conservation Implementation Plan for each national park unit in the southeastern region of the NPS.
In Sevier County and around the Smokies, Keith leads bird tours for local organizations, including Smokies Life. Through this work, he has documented birds that have never been reported for Sevier County, TN.
Jacqueline Harp joined Smokies Life in fall 2024 after nearly 18 years at REI Co-op in various roles, most recently as its regional director for the southeastern United States. Prior to joining REI, Harp served as the marketing director of Harris YMCA in Charlotte, and she holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Queens University of Charlotte, where she also served as assistant director of student affairs.
In her current role as CEO of Smokies Life, Jacqueline brings her broad experience in the outdoor industry, proven strategic leadership and operational management skills, and deep commitment to partnership development and community engagement. Raised in East Tennessee, she is a lifelong advocate for Great Smoky Mountains National Park and an outdoor enthusiast who has completed the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certificate Program at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
She serves on the board of Nashville-based TennGreen Land Conservancy and is board chair of Chattanooga-based Lookout Mountain Conservancy. “Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been an important backdrop for my life, shaping my memories in the outdoors and my passion for conservation and nature connection,” she said. “It is an honor to have an opportunity to contribute to the legacy of Smokies Life and the perpetual preservation of the park, and I look forward to continuing the organization’s strong, existing partnerships to deepen our members’ and all visitors’ connections to the Smokies.”
Required Reading
Event Disclaimer
This information has been designed to be as accurate as possible; however, all programs are subject to change for multiple reasons, including weather.
Questions?
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Member Fee $45
Guest Fee $85
As a member, you are invited and encouraged to bring along a guest. This fee includes admission to this event and a year-long Park Keeper membership for your guest.