Overview of the Magnolia Detectives Project

     Polk County High School has embarked on a real-world research project wherein students in the Introduction to Biotechnology class are learning DNA manipulation techniques in order to solve a Polk County mystery.  Mr. John Vining, pictured, of the Polk County Cooperative Extension Center asked PCHS to help determine the closest genetics relatives to a local stand of Sweetbay Magnolia, also known as Magnolia virginiana.  This species is usually found in coastal regions.  Polk County is located in Western North Carolina and the local population of Sweetbay Magnolia represents the western-most out-population for the range of this species.
     PCHS students directed by Jennifer Allsbrook will attempt over the next several semesters to address the Magnolia mystery.  Adding to this blog, my students will explain some of the laboratory techniques and protocols that they have learned while working as Magnolia Detectives!

Follow the Magnolia Detectives as we strive to solve this mystery and visit our home page at http://www.pchsmagnoliadetectives.org