Meet Ed Morgan, an Abingdon writer, naturalist, and former mayor, as he discusses his new book, “Notes on the State of Southwest Virginia.”

In 2015, Morgan was astonished to realize that Southwest Virginia was the most biodiverse location in the nation. He immediately asked himself how this was possible and why he did not know about it. “Notes on the State of Southwest Virginia” is a series of essays and memoirs exploring those two questions. The title of his book is a homage to Thomas Jefferson who was one of the first people to examine the biodiversity of Virginia in his 1785 publication, “Notes on the State of Virginia.” Morgan writes about the scientists, professionals, and amateurs, who have studied the biota of our region and its supporting ecosystems along with government officials and private citizens who have worked to preserve this bounty.

Morgan describes himself as an amateur naturalist with a broad knowledge of Southwest Virginia, the region where he has lived for 75 years. He is writing for the non-scientist, like himself, who possesses a keen interest in nature and would like the opportunity to experience the region’s hidden riches. While his book focuses on Southwest Virginia, many of the events and topics examined apply to the Appalachian region as a whole.

There will be book sales and signings following the author presentation. This event is free and open to the public.