Fact: The Appalachians are the nation's oldest and the world's most biologically diverse mountains. (Consider that more plant, tree and animal species can be found in one acre in the North Carolina Blue Ridge mountains than in all of Europe's forests.)
This is one of the many interesting things you can learn by watching an extraordinary four-part PBS series: Appalachia: A History of Mountains and People. The premier airs tonight -- don't miss it. More details on the film's website: http://appalachiafilm.org/series.
For more information on this amazing documentary series, narrated by Oscar award-winning actress Sissy Spacek ("The Coal Miner's Daughter"), read what Jeff Biggers has to say about it on Huffington Post today.
And in case you're wondering, the series does end by profiling the devastating practice of mountaintop removal, which is turning the majestic Appalachian mountains into molehills.
Enjoy this special PBS series celebrating the Appalachians. Set your TiVo for stunning.