Central Region News

A message from Executive Director Bob Wagner: 

MountainTrue volunteers are awesome! With spring upon us and summer arriving soon, our volunteers are busy collecting water samples for our annual Swim Guide Program so that you can know if your favorite swim sites are safe. At our BioBlitz this past Saturday, volunteers identified hundreds of plants along the Nolichucky River, which may one day help the area obtain a Wild & Scenic designation — our nation’s strongest form of protection for free-flowing rivers and streams. Throughout the summer, our volunteers will remove invasive plants, advocate for environmental protection to local leaders, and more. 

Lastly, I want to give our Board of Directors a special shoutout. These dedicated volunteers commit significant time to learning about, supporting, and guiding MountainTrue. They help us navigate the business side of running a nonprofit and the programmatic direction. They play a critical role in our success. Thanks to all of you who give time and resources to protect our rivers, forests, and mountains!

Help us clean the Swannanoa River this summer

Join Wicked Weed, Dewey Property, and MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper for a river cleanup on Saturday, June 8. Stick around for the after-party at The Outpost. Learn more + register here!

See Michael Franti & Spearhead at the Salvage Station on June 28-29

Asheville’s cherished summer tradition returns to the scenic banks of the French Broad River for its 8th year. Music icon Michael Franti, renowned for his global performances and deep commitment to social causes, will headline a two-night musical extravaganza at the Salvage Station, continuing his support for the environmental efforts of the French Broad Riverkeeper. Get your tickets here.

Catch us at AMB Mills River for our June pint night

Join us at Appalachian Mountain Brewery’s Mills River location from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, for a MountainTrue pint night. MountainTrue will receive $1 of all beers poured on June 11. Can’t make it on the 11th? MountainTrue will be the featured nonprofit for the month of June and will receive $1 of all pours of AMB’s chosen beer for June: Czech One, Two — a classic Czech lager.

Volunteer with us on the French Broad Paddle Trail

Get out on the river with your French Broad Riverkeeper and help clean up a section of the French Broad Paddle Trail on Friday, July 19, near Alexander, NC! This will be a paddle-based cleanup, with the option to stay on land to clean up the access points and roadside areas if paddling is not of interest. Find out more or register!

Paddling Film Fest: August 22 in Asheville, NC

Join us for the Paddling Film Festival World Tour at New Belgium Brewing in Asheville, NC, on August 22! Organized by Paddling Magazine and Rapid Media, sponsored by Headwaters Outfitters, and hosted by New Belgium Brewing, this event is a fundraiser for MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper program, which includes Swim Guide and the French Broad Paddle Trail. You’ll be inspired to explore rivers, lakes and oceans, push extremes, embrace the paddling lifestyle, and appreciate the wild places. Find out more and buy tickets!

Photo: Green Riverkeeper Erica Shanks (left), Development & Engagement Manager Amy Finkler (center), and Southern Regional Director Nancy Díaz (right) pose for a photo before meeting with elected officials in Raleigh.​

MountainTrue advocates for environmental priorities in Raleigh

At the beginning of May, our legislative advocacy team traveled to Raleigh to champion key environmental initiatives during the NC General Assembly’s short session. We met with several legislators to discuss stormwater pollution reduction, rural septic system repairs, E. coli monitoring in the French Broad River, and securing State Trail designations. Learn more about our advocacy efforts and legislative priorities in our latest Raleigh Report.

Madison County cryptocurrency ordinance update

With its moratorium set to expire this month, Madison County Commissioners unanimously approved language to amend their land use ordinance to regulate data processing facilities, including cryptocurrency mining operations. During the year-long moratorium, MountainTrue shared with the county a draft ordinance we developed in response to cryptocurrency mines in Cherokee County and advocated for the adoption of updated ordinance language to regulate cryptomine use. The updated ordinance now regulates small data processing facilities (<10,000sf), which would be permitted in Madison County’s commercial districts, and permits large facilities the county’s industrial districts. MountainTrue is grateful to Madison County for stepping up to regulate this potentially disruptive industrial use and keep it out of agricultural and residential zoned areas.

Photo: MountainTrue Deputy Director & General Counsel Gray Jernigan (left), Watauga Riverkeeper Andy Hill (center), and French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson (right) showcase three handmade paddles crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell.​

Win a sweet paddle made by the Broad Riverkeeper!

Want to paddle in style? Grab a raffle ticket for a chance to win a paddle designed and crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell! Proceeds support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper program. This paddle is made of walnut, basswood, oak, and mahogany; it’s 150 cm long and weighs 32 oz. Unlike most “production” paddles, which have a hard finish, Caldwell Carvings’ paddles have an oil finish that is warm to the touch and easily maintained. The raffle winner will be drawn on September 14. Click here for full guidelines or to purchase tickets.

Just released: Pirani x MountainTrue reusable Hellbender cup

Pirani’s mission is to empower everyday heroes in safeguarding our planet through raising eco-awareness and creating high-quality, sustainable solutions to single-use products. Forget those disposable party cups and party on sustainably! Sales of these special edition cups benefit MountainTrue. Get your Hellbender cup now (and receive free shipping on your Pirani cup through the end of June!)

MountainTrue partners with Sugar Hollow Solar

Something exciting is brewing in the heart of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains — a new collaboration between MountainTrue and Sugar Hollow Solar, a forward-thinking solar power company! This partnership isn’t just about harnessing the sun’s energy; it’s about fostering a community committed to a greener, more sustainable future. From now until September 30, 2024, Sugar Hollow Solar is running an inspiring referral program. For every new customer who signs a solar contract based on your referral, Sugar Hollow Solar will generously donate $50 to MountainTrue. And that’s not all – as a token of appreciation, you, the referrer, will receive $250. But if you’re feeling particularly generous, you can opt to have the full $300 benefit go to MountainTrue. To be a part of this impactful program, visit Sugar Hollow Solar’s Referral Page, send an email to hello@sugarhollowsolar.com, or give them a call at (828) 776-9161. Learn more about this exciting partnership on our blog. 

Farm Weather Impact Survey

Calling all farmers! Click this link to fill out our Farm Weather Impact Survey and enter to win a $100 Tractor Supply Co. gift card! 

As extreme weather events continue to pose challenges for farming operations, we must take steps to rally behind our farmers. This is why MountainTrue is launching a Farm Weather Impact Survey. The survey aims to better understand how extreme weather is affecting agricultural production in the Southern Blue Ridge and what resources are needed for resiliency. The information we receive will help guide MountainTrue in tailoring support initiatives, advocating for vital resources, and implementing strategies to support farms in Western North Carolina. 

Any farmer cultivating, operating, or managing a farm for profit in the Buncombe, Haywood, Transylvania, Henderson, Polk, Rutherford, & Cleveland Counties is encouraged to participate. It should take less than 5 minutes to complete and will be open until September 1, 2024. Your responses will be anonymous unless you choose to share your contact information. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please reach out to climateaction@mountaintrue.org.

High Country News

A message from High Country Regional Director & Watauga Riverkeeper Andy Hill: 

We’re so excited about summer in the High Country. We’re thrilled with all the good rain and new growth with healthy flows in our rivers. We’re excited to host guided snorkel trips, Trash Trout cleanouts, invasive plant workdays and, of course, Swim Guide! We’re so grateful to our volunteers and Swim Guide site sponsors. Join us for an impactful volunteer opportunity or a Beech Mountain Resort Summer Concert.

Catch us at AMB for our June pint night

Join us at Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone on Tuesday, June 11, for a MountainTrue pint night. MountainTrue will receive $1 for all beers poured on June 11. Can’t make it on the 11th? MountainTrue will be the featured nonprofit for the month of June and will receive $1 of all pours of AMB’s chosen beer for June: Czech One, Two — a classic Czech lager.

Join us on a guided paddle adventure

Mark your calendars for our upcoming guided paddle adventure! This family-friendly guided paddle trip on Saturday, June 22, will be full of knowledge sharing, meeting new people, and celebrating the High Country’s clean and cold water. Learn more + register.

Help us clean up our rivers this summer

Throughout the summer, our High Country team will be hosting Trash Trout cleanouts at the Boone Greenway for the whole family to take part in! Volunteers are needed on June 28, July 27, and August 24. Be sure to keep an eye on our volunteer opportunities tab to stay up to date on ways to keep our community cleaner this summer!

Swim Guide launch party

The Watauga Riverkeeper team recently had a wonderful time at Valle Crucis Community Park celebrating the upcoming summer days and Swim Guide season with this year’s volunteers! We enjoyed a yummy pizza dinner together, went over Swim Guide protocols, and made new friends. Our team is so thankful for the incredible community members, volunteers, and sponsors that make every Swim Guide season a success. If you or your business is interested in sponsoring a Swim Guide site or becoming a backup volunteer this summer, please contact High Country Outreach Coordinator Emma Crider (emma@mountaintrue.org).

INFRAMES Knowledge Co-Production Workshop

Andy and Emma had the privilege of attending and serving as panelists at the INFRAMES workshop held at Appalachian State University in May. This workshop was a demonstration of knowledge co-production, bringing researchers, practitioners, educators, artists, and the public together around a particular topic and problem space: interactions between surface waters and human decisions, targeting microplastics and nutrient cycling in waters. We met great people, discussed mitigation strategies, and began creating solutions to some of the High Country’s most “wicked” problems.

Photo: High Country Outreach Coordinator Emma Crider (right) and Will Bennett (left) take a selfie at the May 28 garlic mustard workday.​

Pulling garlic mustard in Boone

Warmer weather means invasive plants are out and causing problems again! Our Outreach Coordinator, Emma, partnered with Grandfather Mountain Research Coordinator and Town of Boone Intern Will Bennett to host a garlic mustard workday at Rivers Park on May 28. We had a wonderful time meeting new people and helping out one of our local parks. Stay tuned for more workdays this summer!

MountainTrue advocates for environmental priorities in Raleigh

At the beginning of May, our legislative advocacy team traveled to Raleigh to champion key environmental initiatives during the NC General Assembly’s short session. We met with several legislators to discuss stormwater pollution reduction, rural septic system repairs, E. coli monitoring in the French Broad River, and securing State Trail designations. Learn more about our advocacy efforts and legislative priorities in our latest Raleigh Report.

Photo: MountainTrue Deputy Director & General Counsel Gray Jernigan (left), Watauga Riverkeeper Andy Hill (center), and French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson (right) showcase three handmade paddles crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell.​

Win a sweet paddle made by the Broad Riverkeeper!

Want to paddle in style? Grab a raffle ticket for a chance to win a paddle designed and crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell! Proceeds support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper program. This paddle is made of walnut, basswood, oak, and mahogany; it’s 150 cm long and weighs 32 oz. Unlike most “production” paddles, which have a hard finish, Caldwell Carvings’ paddles have an oil finish that is warm to the touch and easily maintained. The raffle winner will be drawn on September 14. Click here for full guidelines or to purchase tickets.

Just released: Pirani x MountainTrue reusable Hellbender cup

Pirani’s mission is to empower everyday heroes in safeguarding our planet through raising eco-awareness and creating high-quality, sustainable solutions to single-use products. Forget those disposable party cups and party on sustainably! Sales of these special edition cups benefit MountainTrue. Get your Hellbender cup now (and receive free shipping on your Pirani cup through the end of June!)

MountainTrue partners with Sugar Hollow Solar

Something exciting is brewing in the heart of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains — a new collaboration between MountainTrue and Sugar Hollow Solar, a forward-thinking solar power company! This partnership isn’t just about harnessing the sun’s energy; it’s about fostering a community committed to a greener, more sustainable future. From now until September 30, 2024, Sugar Hollow Solar is running an inspiring referral program. For every new customer who signs a solar contract based on your referral, Sugar Hollow Solar will generously donate $50 to MountainTrue. And that’s not all – as a token of appreciation, you, the referrer, will receive $250. But if you’re feeling particularly generous, you can opt to have the full $300 benefit go to MountainTrue. To be a part of this impactful program, visit Sugar Hollow Solar’s Referral Page, send an email to hello@sugarhollowsolar.com, or give them a call at (828) 776-9161. Learn more about this exciting partnership on our blog. 

Southern Region News

A message from Southern Regional Director Nancy Díaz: 

Welcome, summer! What are you looking forward to the most this season? In the Southern Regional Office, we’re excited to be joined by Golden Leaf Scholar, Caleb McCabe. Caleb is a student at NC State University, from Lawndale, NC, studying Environmental Science. This summer, he’ll be adding capacity to our Broad Riverkeeper program, supporting our Swim Guide program, outings, events, and river stewardship programs. Thank you to the Gold Leaf Foundation for facilitating this opportunity for their scholarship recipients. Please join me in welcoming Caleb, and consider joining a Broad River event to meet Caleb this summer!

Float the First Broad River with us on June 8

Join your Broad Riverkeeper for a fun paddle on the cool, shady waters of the First Broad River on Saturday, June 8! Just downstream from the South Mountain Game Lands and one of our few Outstanding Resource Waters, this is some of the cleanest and life-filled water in the Broad River basin. For safety reasons, this event is limited to participants aged 18 and older. Learn more + register.

Catch us at AMB Mills River for our June pint night

Join us at Appalachian Mountain Brewery’s Mills River location from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, for a MountainTrue pint night. MountainTrue will receive $1 of all beers poured on June 11. Can’t make it on the 11th? MountainTrue will be the featured nonprofit for the month of June and will receive $1 of all pours of AMB’s chosen beer for June: Czech One, Two — a classic Czech lager.

Spring + summer ‘24 Hendersonville Green Drinks lineup

Join us at Trailside Brewing Co for these upcoming spring and summer ‘24 installments of Hendersonville Green Drinks, presented by MountainTrue, Conserving Carolina, and Trailside Brewing Co:

???? 6/13 from 5:30-7pm: “Why should environmentalists support building more housing?” w/ MountainTrue Housing and Transportation Director Susan Bean

???? 7/11 from 5:30-7pm: Green Drinks with The Carolina Farm Trust

???? 8/8 from 5:30-7pm: Conserving Carolina’s restoration work along the French Broad River

Save the date: 9th Annual Sarah Sweep on September 7

Join us on Saturday, September 7, as we honor Sarah Spencer and friends with our 9th Annual Sarah Sweep on the First Broad River. Volunteers will spend the day removing litter from the river before heading back to enjoy the live music and food at the First Broad River Festival.

Photo: MountainTrue Deputy Director & General Counsel Gray Jernigan (left), Watauga Riverkeeper Andy Hill (center), and French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson (right) showcase three handmade paddles crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell.​

Win a sweet paddle made by the Broad Riverkeeper!

Want to paddle in style? Grab a raffle ticket for a chance to win a paddle designed and crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell! Proceeds support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper program. This paddle is made of walnut, basswood, oak, and mahogany; it’s 150 cm long and weighs 32 oz. Unlike most “production” paddles, which have a hard finish, Caldwell Carvings’ paddles have an oil finish that is warm to the touch and easily maintained. The raffle winner will be drawn on September 14. Click here for full guidelines or to purchase tickets.

Just released: Pirani x MountainTrue reusable Hellbender cup

Pirani’s mission is to empower everyday heroes in safeguarding our planet through raising eco-awareness and creating high-quality, sustainable solutions to single-use products. Forget those disposable party cups and party on sustainably! Sales of these special edition cups benefit MountainTrue. Get your Hellbender cup now (and receive free shipping on your Pirani cup through the end of June!)

MountainTrue partners with Sugar Hollow Solar

Something exciting is brewing in the heart of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains — a new collaboration between MountainTrue and Sugar Hollow Solar, a forward-thinking solar power company! This partnership isn’t just about harnessing the sun’s energy; it’s about fostering a community committed to a greener, more sustainable future. From now until September 30, 2024, Sugar Hollow Solar is running an inspiring referral program. For every new customer who signs a solar contract based on your referral, Sugar Hollow Solar will generously donate $50 to MountainTrue. And that’s not all – as a token of appreciation, you, the referrer, will receive $250. But if you’re feeling particularly generous, you can opt to have the full $300 benefit go to MountainTrue. To be a part of this impactful program, visit Sugar Hollow Solar’s Referral Page, send an email to hello@sugarhollowsolar.com, or give them a call at (828) 776-9161. Learn more about this exciting partnership on our blog. 

Farm Weather Impact Survey

Calling all farmers! Click this link to fill out our Farm Weather Impact Survey and enter to win a $100 Tractor Supply Co. gift card! 

As extreme weather events continue to pose challenges for farming operations, we must take steps to rally behind our farmers. This is why MountainTrue is launching a Farm Weather Impact Survey. The survey aims to better understand how extreme weather is affecting agricultural production in the Southern Blue Ridge and what resources are needed for resiliency. The information we receive will help guide MountainTrue in tailoring support initiatives, advocating for vital resources, and implementing strategies to support farms in Western North Carolina. 

Any farmer cultivating, operating, or managing a farm for profit in the Buncombe, Haywood, Transylvania, Henderson, Polk, Rutherford, & Cleveland Counties is encouraged to participate. It should take less than 5 minutes to complete and will be open until September 1, 2024. Your responses will be anonymous unless you choose to share your contact information. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please reach out to climateaction@mountaintrue.org.

Photo: Green Riverkeeper Erica Shanks (left), Development & Engagement Manager Amy Finkler (center), and Southern Regional Director Nancy Díaz (right) pose for a photo before meeting with elected officials in Raleigh.​

MountainTrue advocates for environmental priorities in Raleigh

At the beginning of May, our legislative advocacy team traveled to Raleigh to champion key environmental initiatives during the NC General Assembly’s short session. We met with several legislators to discuss stormwater pollution reduction, rural septic system repairs, E. coli monitoring in the French Broad River, and securing State Trail designations. Learn more about our advocacy efforts and legislative priorities in our latest Raleigh Report.

NC issues Clear Creek Treatment Plant Discharge Permit

In May, the NC Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources (DWR) approved a permit for the Clear Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in Henderson County. MountainTrue and our legal partners at the Southern Environmental Law Center challenged the permit, stating that issuance of the permit would further pollute an already impaired waterway. After considering comments from MountainTrue members and others, DWR approved a permit with some significant changes, including: 

• Maximum treatment capacity of 200,000 gallons per day;
• More stringent limits for five-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and ammonia nitrogen to ensure the protection of downstream water quality; and
• A required annual study of in-stream impacts to biological integrity after discharge begins.

Hendersonville Gen H Plan: Community Input Survey

The Gen H comprehensive plan draft is now available. The City welcomes the community to provide feedback on the draft plan by completing this survey. Also, mark your calendars for two upcoming Gen H public hearings: Monday, June 24 at 4 p.m. with the Hendersonville Planning Board, and Wednesday, July 10 at 5:45 p.m. with the Hendersonville City Council. Both meetings will be held at the City Operations Building (305 Williams St), and the public is welcome and encouraged to provide public comment. Learn more about the Gen H Plan here.

Western Region News

A message from Western Regional Director Callie Moore: 

Welcome, summer! What are you looking forward to the most this season? In the Western Region, we’re looking forward to significantly reducing the invasive aquatic parrot feather in Lake Chatuge, keeping everyone updated on where it’s safe to swim, and training new volunteers in our water quality monitoring program. We’re also looking forward to meeting and helping orient MountainTrue’s new Public Lands Organizer, who will hopefully be starting in July! And lots of Healthy Communities work as well, including managing a project to develop a conservation plan for the southern half of Jackson County, NC. Personally, I’m also looking forward to homegrown garden produce! Let us know how you’d like to be involved with MountainTrue this season.

Robbinsville High senior Donovan Carpenter wins Carson Conservation Scholarship

The 2024 winner of the Glenn F. Carson, II Memorial Conservation Scholarship Graham County resident and Robbinsville High graduate Donovan Carpenter. Donovan plans to major in either civil engineering or construction management when he heads to Western Carolina University this fall. Read more about Donovan and the Carson Conservation Scholarship.

Recap of habitat restoration work in Jackson Co, NC

MountainTrue, in partnership with several other organizations that included Jackson Co. Parks & Recreation and Mainspring Conservation Trust, organized volunteer workdays beginning in January 2023 to control invasive plants along the Jackson Co. Greenway. In 2024, those efforts expanded to include workdays at Pinnacle Park and the site of a future park on the Tuckasegee River. Altogether, 96 volunteers participated in one or more of nine workdays, contributing 288 hours! Click here to watch a fun 15-minute presentation about these efforts by Western Region AmeriCorps member, Eve Davis.

Get involved: volunteer with us this summer!

MountainTrue’s Western Region team is in need of:

• Microplastics volunteers in Jackson and Swain counties
• Weekly Swim Guide volunteers in Union County, GA, and Macon County, NC

Photo: Members of Oconaluftee Job Corps sever invasive vines at the site of a future riverside park.​​

MountainTrue partners with Oconaluftee Job Corps for kudzu control in Cullowhee

Cullowhee Revitalization (CuRev), MountainTrue, and American Rivers are laying the groundwork for the creation of a future riverside park along the Tuckasegee River in the Cullowhee community of Jackson County, NC. One step toward the goal is to eradicate nonnative invasive plants – mainly kudzu and oriental bittersweet – from the project site, which is between Old Cullowhee Road, Wayehutta Road, and the Tuckasegee River. On April 27, 14 members of the Oconaluftee Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center completed the first steps in the process by cutting invasive vines and shrubs there.

Parrot feather control is underway in Lake Chatuge!

On May 3, Aqua Services conducted an initial treatment of the invasive aquatic plant called parrot feather that has infested the southern end of Lake Chatuge for the past two years. A survey of the treatment area on May 17 showed significantly diminished aquatic vegetation. The areas still showing vegetation consist of dead, but standing, parrot feather and other plants. Aqua Services projects the second application will happen this week. Read more about the treatment plan here.

Photo: Western Region summer ‘24 Water Quality Intern, Joshua Jones, collects water samples as part of our weekly Swim Guide program.​​

Western Region intern starts just in time to help kick off Swim Guide in the Hiwassee Watershed

Joshua Jones of Cumming, GA, is this summer’s Western Region Water Quality Intern. Josh is a biology major minoring in music at Young Harris College. He’ll be a senior in the fall and is looking to gain experience for a possible career after graduation in environmental science or conservation. He began work just one day before the first sample collection for our Swim Guide monitoring program in the Hiwassee River Watershed; join us in welcoming Josh to the team! Click here to learn more about Swim Guide and download the app.

MountainTrue advocates for environmental priorities in Raleigh

At the beginning of May, our legislative advocacy team traveled to Raleigh to champion key environmental initiatives during the NC General Assembly’s short session. We met with several legislators to discuss stormwater pollution reduction, rural septic system repairs, E. coli monitoring in the French Broad River, and securing State Trail designations. Learn more about our advocacy efforts and legislative priorities in our latest Raleigh Report.

Photo: MountainTrue Deputy Director & General Counsel Gray Jernigan (left), Watauga Riverkeeper Andy Hill (center), and French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson (right) showcase three handmade paddles crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell.​

Win a sweet paddle made by the Broad Riverkeeper!

Want to paddle in style? Grab a raffle ticket for a chance to win a paddle designed and crafted by Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell! Proceeds support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper program. This paddle is made of walnut, basswood, oak, and mahogany; it’s 150 cm long and weighs 32 oz. Unlike most “production” paddles, which have a hard finish, Caldwell Carvings’ paddles have an oil finish that is warm to the touch and easily maintained. The raffle winner will be drawn on September 14. Click here for full guidelines or to purchase tickets.

Just released: Pirani x MountainTrue reusable Hellbender cup

Pirani’s mission is to empower everyday heroes in safeguarding our planet through raising eco-awareness and creating high-quality, sustainable solutions to single-use products. Forget those disposable party cups and party on sustainably! Sales of these special edition cups benefit MountainTrue. Get your Hellbender cup now (and receive free shipping on your Pirani cup through the end of June!)

MountainTrue partners with Sugar Hollow Solar

Something exciting is brewing in the heart of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains — a new collaboration between MountainTrue and Sugar Hollow Solar, a forward-thinking solar power company! This partnership isn’t just about harnessing the sun’s energy; it’s about fostering a community committed to a greener, more sustainable future. From now until September 30, 2024, Sugar Hollow Solar is running an inspiring referral program. For every new customer who signs a solar contract based on your referral, Sugar Hollow Solar will generously donate $50 to MountainTrue. And that’s not all – as a token of appreciation, you, the referrer, will receive $250. But if you’re feeling particularly generous, you can opt to have the full $300 benefit go to MountainTrue. To be a part of this impactful program, visit Sugar Hollow Solar’s Referral Page, send an email to hello@sugarhollowsolar.com, or give them a call at (828) 776-9161. Learn more about this exciting partnership on our blog. 

Central Region News

A message from Executive Director Bob Wagner: 

While many are dealing with personal or societal grief for any number of reasons, it’s an excellent time to take in the anticipation and vibrancy springing forth outside our windows, on the trails near our house, and on our morning rides to work. We don’t have to go far to see cherry blossoms, redbuds, and daffodils, with dogwoods and rhododendrons on deck. They’re a reminder that life, beauty, and goodness are tenacious. This Earth Month, I hope we can embrace and celebrate that goodness. Come join us at one of our spring events as we take a moment to acknowledge and give thanks for the natural gifts all around us.

Photo: Single-use plastic bags tangled in the streambank brush on the French Broad River.

Enjoy lunch + learn about our plastics advocacy at Green Sage on April 17

Want to learn what MountainTrue is doing to address the single-use plastics problem and how you can help? Join us for a lunch + learn hosted by MountainTrue and Green Sage Cafe on Wednesday, April 17. Lunch will be purchased separately by participants — to make ordering easier, Green Sage will have a designated cash register for event participants. Please arrive between 11:10 and 11:25 a.m. so you can order and get settled before the presentation. Learn more and register.

Celebrate Earth Day with MountainTrue in Asheville!

Join us as we raise a glass to Earth Day and MountainTrue supporters from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, April 22, at The Funkatorium in Asheville, NC. MountainTrue volunteers in the month of April will receive a complimentary beer, wine or n/a beverage courtesy of Wicked Weed, so make sure you check out our volunteer opportunities! And that’s not all: Sugar Hollow Solar will also celebrate with us on-site. Homeowners or business owners can bring in their power bill for one complimentary drink ticket (good for beer, wine, or n/a drinks) on behalf of Sugar Hollow Solar.

Help save native habitat on our Earth Day Garlic Mustard Pull

Join us outside on Earth Day, April 22, for a day spent enjoying and protecting the fantastic botanical diversity of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The wildflowers should be at their peak as we pull garlic mustard and listen to the birds sing near Hot Springs, NC. Sign up soon, this one is filling up fast! Register here.

Call for tabling volunteers

Love talking to people and want to volunteer with MountainTrue? Consider being a volunteer at tabling events! Contact amy@mountaintrue.org for more information.

MountainTrue member spotlight: meet the Bairds

Ross and Bess Baird have been MountainTrue members for more than a decade. Recently, they’ve focused on supporting the Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC program. When asked why this project has inspired them to give, they said, “We want to support systemic work that makes an impact at the local level. Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC is promoting dense development that can reduce urban sprawl in the counties. We’re currently crowding single-family homes onto smaller acreage with little to no erosion controls and building outwards rather than up. In the process, we’re destroying farmlands and forests. We want to treat the cause of suburban sprawl, and MountainTrue is working to do that.” Read more on our blog.

5Point Adventure Film Fest returns May 21

Tickets are on sale now! Join us on Tuesday, May 21, for the 5Point Adventure Film Screening in Asheville, NC, presented by Mosaic Realty and benefiting MountainTrue. Learn more.

Join MountainTrue’s Board of Directors

MountainTrue seeks a diverse board representing its service areas, including different areas of expertise and life experiences. The Governance and Equity Committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, and the full board considers new members at its August meeting. If interested, please complete the board member application and attach your CV/bio. Review the board member job description and apply here. We look forward to hearing from you!

Kid’s merch contest

Calling all budding artists aged 10-14 — MountainTrue Kid’s Merchandise Contest Launches on Earth Day (April 22)! Learn more here.

Print-on-demand merch options

Looking for a more responsible way to support MountainTrue’s mission and our environment while raising critical dollars for our ongoing work? We’ve partnered with Recover Brands to offer a mix of sustainable apparel throughout the month of April. All items in our temporary online store are printed on-demand when you place your order, which eliminates waste and relieves us from dealing with the expense and hassle of excess inventory. These items will ship straight to your door and Recover will send MountainTrue a check at the end of the month. Join us this Earth Month in making more intentional decisions for our organization and our earth. Place your order now!

MountainTrue hellbender hoodies & t-shirts are back in stock!

Proceeds fund the work of MountainTrue, including our clean water team. We are excited to announce that our Hellbender shirts are now 100% organic cotton. These have sold out fast so don’t wait — get yours today!

Rural Transportation Workshop: Building Clean Connected Communities

We’re excited to announce a free workshop charting the course for improved transportation in rural Western North Carolina on April 13. Through community-led sessions, peer discussions, and connections with resources and supporting organizations, we’ll gain insights and tools to address your community’s unique transportation challenges and bring sustainable mobility solutions home. Please join us to be a part of this transformative journey. Register here.

May 4 pollinator garden workshop

Looking for a family-friendly outing? Stop by the Olivette Pollinator Garden Workshop in Asheville on May 4 to learn about native plants and pollinators. This event is hosted by MountainTrue’s organizational partner, Sugar Hollow Solar.

Clean up the French Broad with Headwaters Outfitters this May

Join French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson for Headwaters Outfitters’ Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up Day on May 18 in Rosman, NC! This is not a MountainTrue-hosted event — Headwaters Outfitters supports MountainTrue, and we would love to help them in return. Space is limited and advance registration is required, so sign up today! Contact Danielle for more information or questions regarding this event at danielle@headwatersoutfitters.com.

MountainTrue Annual Gathering: save the date!

Mark your calendars and join us for our Annual Member Gathering in Asheville, NC on September 14, 2024!

Septic system repair grants available for qualifying property owners

MountainTrue has partnered with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and local health departments to provide septic system repair grants to qualifying property owners in Buncombe, Cherokee, Haywood, Henderson, Macon, Madison, Mitchell, Transylvania, and Yancey counties, as well as several other counties across WNC. Residents of rural areas outside of town are highly likely to have onsite septic systems. Problems with septic systems usually arise as systems age or when maintenance is neglected. Property owners: review eligibility requirements and apply for the repair program here.

Madison County advocacy updates

On April 9, Madison County Commissioners will take up two significant ordinances to regulate industrial activity in the county upon recommendations from the Planning Board, while kicking the can down the road with another potentially harmful revision to an existing ordinance.

Biomass facilities: In response to public feedback, the Madison County Planning Board has significantly revised the definition of what constitutes a large biomass facility, requires they obtain a special permit, and restricts their operations to industrial-zoned areas of the county. MountainTrue supports the revised ordinance, although, to be clear, MountainTrue opposes industrial-sized biomass facilities in Madison County, as they would emit more climate-changing carbon into the atmosphere, cause significant air pollution, and pose serious fire risks to nearby residents. So, while the Planning Board has moved in the right direction, we encourage the Board to reconsider whether large biomass facilities are appropriate for Madison County at all.

Cryptocurrency mining: The Planning Board also recommended the adoption of an ordinance to regulate the siting of data processing centers (aka, cryptocurrency mines) to industrial and commercially zoned districts. Cryptocurrency mining and the processes necessary to maintain and validate cryptocurrency transactions are incredibly energy-intensive. Because the fans needed to cool crypto storage units/warehouses full of computers are so loud, crypto companies look for locations with few or weak land-use protections when deciding where to build data processing centers. They also produce copious amounts of electronic waste and non-compactable styrofoam. MountainTrue applauds Madison County for stepping up to address this issue and protect citizens from this industrial nuisance.

Ridgetop protection: Responding to the desires of a single landowner, the Madison County Planning Board put aside the best interests of the wider community and recommended doing away with the rule that would prevent the construction of homes and buildings within 50 feet of ridgelines. This change would completely undercut Madison County’s Mountain Ridge Protection ordinance and open the door to unfettered home construction along mountaintops. County Commissioners have now called on an in-house staff task force to explore the ordinance revision, with no pending deadline for their findings. Allowing development on our ridgetops would threaten Madison County’s irreplaceable natural beauty, environmental health, economic vitality, and community well-being. MountainTrue will continue to monitor this development and keep our members updated when it’s time to act. 

Buncombe County advocacy updates

Regulating short-term rentals: The Buncombe County Planning Board is considering amendments to regulate short-term rentals (STRs), including limiting the location of STRs, clarifying definitions, and creating special requirements. Ensuring that short-term rentals are appropriately regulated and located can create more opportunities for long-term rental and owner-occupied housing in our county. There are over 5,000 STRs in Buncombe County, accounting for about 5% of the county’s total housing stock. The Planning Board continues determining what STR regulations would allow pre-existing STRs to remain in operation. Homestays will be taken up at a later date. View the full list of the discussed STR regulations and watch the meeting video on the county’s website. We’ll keep you posted as county officials continue to develop their regulations.

Public transit: When public transit is efficient and reliable, people can choose to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by taking the bus to meet daily needs. The transportation sector is the country’s largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, most of which come from personal vehicles. Take action to encourage Asheville and Buncombe County to commit to increased bus service frequency in South Asheville and give our community cleaner transportation options.

High Country News

A message from High Country Regional Director & Watauga Riverkeeper Andy Hill: 

Happy spring and Happy Earth Month! We’re encouraged by the warmer weather and new life. We’ve been busy planting trees and celebrating World Water Day with our friends at Appalachian Mountain Brewery here in Boone. Thank you to all the old and new friends who came out to volunteer and support our work! We look forward to getting out on the water with you this spring. Scroll down + check out our upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Hope to see y’all at the Fly Fishing Film Fest to celebrate Earth Day on April 20!

Mark your calendars for the Trout Derby on April 6!

Join MountainTrue and your Watauga Riverkeeper for the annual Trout Derby in Blowing Rock, NC, on Saturday, April 6. Whether you want to compete or enjoy a day outside filled with food, games, and music, it’ll be a fun Saturday for your whole crew! This family-friendly event has been happening for over four decades and is sure to impress. See you there!

Photo: Volunteers prepare live stakes for planting along the banks of the Watauga River.​

That’s a wrap on our winter ‘23-24 live staking season!

As temperatures rise and plants emerge from their dormant season, our winter 2023-24 live staking season came to a bittersweet end on Saturday, March 23. With the largest turn-out in High Country live staking history and the weather clearing up right on time, we planted over 2,500 live stakes along Rominger Road, just upstream from the old Ward’s Mill dam site. We’re so excited to see how these live stakes revegetate the riparian buffer and continue to shade and protect our river. A huge thank you to all of our trusty workday volunteers this season — we couldn’t have done it without y’all! And shout out to Tennessee Valley Authority and Tennessee River Basin Network’s Shade Your Stream Grant for providing much-appreciated live staking funding.

Call for tabling volunteers

Love talking to people and want to volunteer with MountainTrue? Consider being a volunteer at tabling events! Contact amy@mountaintrue.org for more information.

Join MountainTrue’s Board of Directors

MountainTrue seeks a diverse board representing its service areas, including different areas of expertise and life experiences. The Governance and Equity Committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, and the full board considers new members at its August meeting. If interested, please complete the board member application and attach your CV/bio. Review the board member job description and apply here. We look forward to hearing from you!

Our annual BioBlitz returns June 1

This year, MountainTrue BioBlitzers will be exploring the Nolichucky in Erwin, TN, alongside experts. We’re excited to offer both water-based and land-based BioBlitz options in 2024! Register now.

MountainTrue member spotlight: meet the Bairds

Ross and Bess Baird have been MountainTrue members for more than a decade. Recently, they’ve focused on supporting the Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC program. When asked why this project has inspired them to give, they said, “We want to support systemic work that makes an impact at the local level. Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC is promoting dense development that can reduce urban sprawl in the counties. We’re currently crowding single-family homes onto smaller acreage with little to no erosion controls and building outwards rather than up. In the process, we’re destroying farmlands and forests. We want to treat the cause of suburban sprawl, and MountainTrue is working to do that.” Read more on our blog.

Kid’s merch contest

Calling all budding artists aged 10-14 — MountainTrue Kid’s Merchandise Contest Launches on Earth Day (April 22)! Learn more here.

Print-on-demand merch options

Looking for a more responsible way to support MountainTrue’s mission and our environment while raising critical dollars for our ongoing work? We’ve partnered with Recover Brands to offer a mix of sustainable apparel throughout the month of April. All items in our temporary online store are printed on-demand when you place your order, which eliminates waste and relieves us from dealing with the expense and hassle of excess inventory. These items will ship straight to your door and Recover will send MountainTrue a check at the end of the month. Join us this Earth Month in making more intentional decisions for our organization and our earth. Place your order now!

MountainTrue hellbender hoodies & t-shirts are back in stock!

Proceeds fund the work of MountainTrue, including our clean water team. We are excited to announce that our Hellbender shirts are now 100% organic cotton. These have sold out fast so don’t wait — get yours today!

MountainTrue Annual Gathering: save the date!

Mark your calendars and join us for our Annual Member Gathering in Asheville, NC on September 14, 2024!

Southern Region News

A message from Southern Regional Director Nancy Díaz: 

Thank you for celebrating World Water Day with our Riverkeepers and Clean Water team last month! I also enjoyed interacting with students at Polk County Middle School to get them interested in environmental careers! We look forward to continuing the love and appreciation for our environment with you throughout April at our various Earth Day events and programs. Continue reading our newsletter to find ways to get involved.

Celebrate spring on our April 12 Wildflower Hike!

Join MountainTrue Public Lands Field Biologist Josh Kelly and Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell to explore the downstream trail at the Broad River Greenway near Shelby, NC, on Friday, April 12. David will discuss the value and concerns associated with the Broad River, while Josh will inform us all about the flowers, plants, and animals we find there. Meeting location: Broad River Greenway main parking lot beside the Ranger Station and bathrooms at 10:30 a.m. This out and back hike is approximately five miles with almost no elevation change, although the terrain is rugged. Learn more and register.

Photo: A MountainTrue SMIE volunteer holds up a giant hellgrammite found in a WNC stream.

Macroinvertebrate and water quality volunteer training

Join your Green Riverkeeper on Saturday, April 13, from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. for a volunteer training day for our Clean Water programs! Volunteers will spend most of the day learning about our SMIE (Stream Monitoring Information Exchange) program, which looks for macroinvertebrates in our local creeks to determine stream health. We’ll also talk about and demonstrate how to take samples for our Swim Guide bacteria monitoring program and VWIN (Volunteer Water Information Network) program. The classroom-style morning session will be held at the Saluda library, and the afternoon session will be spent outside on the Green River. Class attendance is limited to 15 people to ensure everyone has a great hands-on experience. Register here.

Come out to Hendo Earth Fest on April 20

Join MountainTrue and other environmental organizations at Hendersonville’s 2nd Annual Hendo Earth Fest on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. This is a family-friendly event! Kids will love the hands-on exhibits with the Aquarium and Shark Lab by Team ECCO, along with demonstrations and activities by over 40 more exhibitors. Hendo Earth Fest is sponsored by the City of Hendersonville’s Environmental Sustainability Board. We hope to see you there! Learn more here.

Henderson County Convenience Center Earth Day Tour

Join MountainTrue and Henderson County’s Environmental Programs Coordinator for a tour of the Henderson County Convenience Center and Compost Facility on Thursday, April 18, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Learn about the recycling options Henderson County offers to residents, including single stream recycling, glass recycling, food waste collection, hard-to-recycle items like foam packaging, florescent lights, electronics, cooking oil, appliances, and more. This is a great opportunity for individuals looking to learn more about recycling options in Henderson County or individuals interested in visiting the compost facility. Meeting location and parking details to come. Register here.

Spring + summer ‘24 Hendersonville Green Drinks lineup

Join us at Trailside Brewing Co for these upcoming spring and summer ‘24 installments of Hendersonville Green Drinks, presented by MountainTrue, Conserving Carolina, and Trailside Brewing Co:

???? 4/11 from 5:30-7pm: “Hendersonville Water and Sewer Utility Update” w/ Utilities Director Adam Steurer

???? 5/9 from 5:30-7pm: “The French Broad Paddle Trail & Henderson County” w/ MountainTrue French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson

???? 6/13 from 5:30-7pm: “Why should environmentalists support building more housing?” w/ MountainTrue Housing and Transportation Director Susan Bean

???? 7/11 from 5:30-7pm: Green Drinks with The Carolina Farm Trust

???? 8/8 from 5:30-7pm: Conserving Carolina’s restoration work along the French Broad River

Call for tabling volunteers

Love talking to people and want to volunteer with MountainTrue? Consider being a volunteer at tabling events! Contact amy@mountaintrue.org for more information.

Photo: 2023 Spring Clean on the Green volunteers pose for a group photo.​

Exciting Green River events on Saturday, May 4

Spring Clean on the Green + Green Bash: Join your Green Riverkeeper and Liquidlogic co-founder Shane Benedict for the 14th Annual Green River Spring Cleaning! We’ll meet at Fishtop Access (2302 Green River Cove Rd, Saluda, NC 28773) at 10 a.m. on May 4, where we’ll divide into teams and get on the river to pull out as much litter as possible before the summer paddling season. We need paddlers of all skill levels to tackle each section of the Green all the way from the Upper Green below the Tuxedo hydroelectric station, through the Narrows, down the Lower Green, and all the way to Lake Adger. Bring your boat, paddling gear, snacks/lunch, and water, and be prepared to get dirty and wet. MountainTrue has a limited number of duckies and gear. Advance registration required — register here.

Green River Bash: The whole Green River community is invited to the Spring Green Bash block party at Green River Adventures in downtown Saluda from 5-9 p.m. on May 4! We’ll enjoy great beer from Oskar Blues Brewing and music by Pretty Little Goat Stringband. We’ll also announce the winner of the charity raffle for a Liquidlogic kayak! Proceeds from the raffle benefit MountainTrue’s Green Riverkeeper – the protector and defender of the Green River Watershed. Stay tuned for more info and web links coming soon! 

MountainTrue member spotlight: meet the Bairds

Ross and Bess Baird have been MountainTrue members for more than a decade. Recently, they’ve focused on supporting the Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC program. When asked why this project has inspired them to give, they said, “We want to support systemic work that makes an impact at the local level. Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC is promoting dense development that can reduce urban sprawl in the counties. We’re currently crowding single-family homes onto smaller acreage with little to no erosion controls and building outwards rather than up. In the process, we’re destroying farmlands and forests. We want to treat the cause of suburban sprawl, and MountainTrue is working to do that.” Read more on our blog.

Join MountainTrue’s Board of Directors

MountainTrue seeks a diverse board representing its service areas, including different areas of expertise and life experiences. The Governance and Equity Committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, and the full board considers new members at its August meeting. If interested, please complete the board member application and attach your CV/bio. Review the board member job description and apply here. We look forward to hearing from you!

Kid’s merch contest

Calling all budding artists aged 10-14 — MountainTrue Kid’s Merchandise Contest Launches on Earth Day (April 22)! Learn more here.

Print-on-demand merch options

Looking for a more responsible way to support MountainTrue’s mission and our environment while raising critical dollars for our ongoing work? We’ve partnered with Recover Brands to offer a mix of sustainable apparel throughout the month of April. All items in our temporary online store are printed on-demand when you place your order, which eliminates waste and relieves us from dealing with the expense and hassle of excess inventory. These items will ship straight to your door and Recover will send MountainTrue a check at the end of the month. Join us this Earth Month in making more intentional decisions for our organization and our earth. Place your order now!

MountainTrue hellbender hoodies & t-shirts are back in stock!

Proceeds fund the work of MountainTrue, including our clean water team. We are excited to announce that our Hellbender shirts are now 100% organic cotton. These have sold out fast so don’t wait — get yours today!

Photo: Crews work to pull a tractor trailer from the Second Broad River after it crashed on March 15 in Rutherford County. Photo credit: WLOS

Tractor trailer crash spills fuel & fertilizer into the Second Broad River

On the morning of March 15, a tractor trailer carrying four and a half tons of fertilizer ran off Hwy 74 and into the Second Broad River. Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell followed up with the NC Department of Environmental Quality and received this report on March 18:

“The tractor trailer was transporting approximately 9,950 pounds of pellet fertilizer, which contained a small portion of herbicide. All of that material fell into the Second Broad River. An undetermined amount of diesel, but estimated at 75 gallons, was released from the truck’s saddle tanks. Multiple rows of absorbent boom and pads were placed in the river to address the petroleum. Efforts were made to remove the fertilizer from the river. However, only three empty tote bags (previously carrying either 2,000 pounds or 1,000 pounds), two empty 50-pound bags, and one half-full 50-pound bag were recovered as of yesterday afternoon. The environmental contractor was going to try again yesterday, but further recovery of fertilizer unlikely due to the high turbidity and flow, which make it extremely difficulty to see anything in the river and dangerous. Treatment of petroleum-contaminated soil was ongoing yesterday.” 

In response to a question about precautions downstream, they added, “Excess nutrients are known to impact water quality and aquatic life. It’s difficult to know what impact this release will have due to a multitude of variables, including variations in river flow, solubility of the pellets, pellet exposure, chemical composition, etc. Our office typically works with DHHS and the local health department to determine if a formal advisory is warranted. Nothing has been issued yet.” Stay tuned for more info and follow your Broad Riverkeeper on Instagram and Facebook.

Lake Adger Celebration

The community is invited to attend the Lake Adger Celebration — a free, family-friendly event from 12-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, featuring guided kayak tours, fishing demonstrations, guided bird walks, kids’ activities, and more! This event is presented in partnership by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue, and Polk County Parks and Recreation, and hosted by the Lake Adger Property Owners Association, Inc. Learn more.

Clean up the French Broad with Headwaters Outfitters this May

Join French Broad Paddle Trail Manager Jack Henderson for Headwaters Outfitters’ Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up Day on May 18 in Rosman, NC! This is not a MountainTrue-hosted event — Headwaters Outfitters supports MountainTrue, and we would love to help them in return. Space is limited and advance registration is required, so sign up today! Contact Danielle for more information or questions regarding this event at danielle@headwatersoutfitters.com.

PHHAT treatment days on the Green w/ Hemlock Restoration Initiative

Join us on the upper section of the Green River (class III) on May 5 and May 25 and become a member of the Paddlers Hemlock Health Action Taskforce (PHHAT)! This collaboration between the Hemlock Restoration Initiative, American Whitewater, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, and MountainTrue’s Green Riverkeeper utilizes experienced whitewater paddlers to treat trees along the Green River. We use a custom protocol to protect hemlock trees from infestation and death by the woolly adelgid (a nonnative sap-sucking insect), whilst ensuring safety and protection of water quality. Learn more and register.

MountainTrue Annual Gathering: save the date!

Mark your calendars and join us for our Annual Member Gathering in Asheville, NC on September 14, 2024!

Henderson County bradford pear bounty

A statewide program to eliminate Bradford Pear trees – called the NC Bradford Pear Bounty Program – is being coordinated in Henderson County by the Hendersonville Tree Board this spring. Residents may participate and receive replacement trees at no charge when they remove up to five Bradford Pear trees on their property. Registration for the program is underway and pick-up date for replacement trees is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, from 9-11 a.m. at the Hendersonville Operations Center (305 Williams St). Learn more here.

Septic system repair grants available for qualifying property owners

MountainTrue has partnered with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and local health departments to provide septic system repair grants to qualifying property owners in Henderson and Transylvania counties, as well as several other counties across WNC. Residents of rural areas outside of town are highly likely to have onsite septic systems. Problems with septic systems usually arise as systems age or when maintenance is neglected. Property owners: review eligibility requirements and apply for the repair program here.

Western Region News

A message from Western Regional Director Callie Moore: 

April is Earth Month, and the wildflowers along my favorite forest trails are already starting the celebration! We’ll be at Spring Fling in Andrews, NC, again this year on Saturday, April 20, and we hope you’ll join us there for a really fun street fair and nature expo. Thank you for being MountainTrue!

Photo: Jennifer Hallett shows her bid card to the auctioneer after winning a hand-carved wooden dough bowl during the live auction at the 2024 Watershed Gala.​

Thank you to our Watershed Gala sponsors, auction/raffle donors, & participants

MountainTrue sincerely thanks this year’s Watershed Gala sponsors: Equinox Environmental, All Creatures Short & Tall, Aulick Engineering, Clay County Soil & Water Conservation District, and Towns County Civic Association! We’d also like to thank the 30 businesses and individuals who donated auction and raffle items, including Goldhagen Art Glass, Freedom Boat Club, The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge, and Andrews Valley Rail Tours. Lastly, we appreciate the 166 guests who attended and bought raffle tickets and auction items for helping to make the 2024 Watershed Gala a success!

Photo: 2022 Carson Conservation Scholarship award winner Marley Kelly has enjoyed being involved in the Leopold Wildlife Club at NC State University.​

Carson Conservation Scholarship deadline: THIS Thursday, April 4

The Carson Conservation Scholarship assists young people from Cherokee, Clay, and Graham counties who want to pursue higher education in natural resource conservation fields. Awards are made annually to one high school senior in each county. The top award is $2,000 and is renewable at $1,000/year for up to four years, based on continued eligibility. Learn more and apply.

Call for tabling volunteers

Love talking to people and want to volunteer with MountainTrue? Consider being a volunteer at tabling events! Contact amy@mountaintrue.org for more information.

Photo: Volunteers work to control invasive plants along the Jackson County Greenway in March.

Final Greenway workday of the season + MountainTrue happy hour on April 12

Join MountainTrue and Mainspring Conservation Trust on the Jackson County Greenway at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 12, for the last volunteer workday of the 2023-24 season! Since we began hosting workdays in January 2023, more than 75 individuals have contributed 249 hours to habitat restoration along the Tuckasegee River greenway. Learn more and sign up here. 

Post-workday, meet the MountainTrue team at Innovation Station in Dillsboro, NC, for a happy hour social gathering to celebrate our habitat restoration work on the Jackson County Greenway! Volunteers who participated in any of the workdays will receive a free beverage between 4-5 p.m. as a thank you! Although we love our volunteers, anyone interested in learning more about MountainTrue is welcome, and we hope to see you there. Afterward, stay on from 5-7 p.m. to learn more about trails, trail work, and sustainable recreation with Friends of Panthertown. 

Mark your calendars for the 5Point Adventure Film screening in Brasstown this May

MountainTrue and Kula Wellness Center in Brasstown, NC, are partnering to bring the 5Point Adventure Film screening out to the Western Region! Tickets are already on sale for the event, which will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21. Current MountainTrue members receive discounted tickets. Space is limited, so don’t wait! Volunteers are also needed to help with this event and will receive a free ticket. Email Callie Moore (callie@mountaintrue.org) to learn more.

Join MountainTrue’s Board of Directors

MountainTrue seeks a diverse board representing its service areas, including different areas of expertise and life experiences. The Governance and Equity Committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, and the full board considers new members at its August meeting. If interested, please complete the board member application and attach your CV/bio. Review the board member job description and apply here. We look forward to hearing from you!

MountainTrue member spotlight: meet the Bairds

Ross and Bess Baird have been MountainTrue members for more than a decade. Recently, they’ve focused on supporting the Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC program. When asked why this project has inspired them to give, they said, “We want to support systemic work that makes an impact at the local level. Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC is promoting dense development that can reduce urban sprawl in the counties. We’re currently crowding single-family homes onto smaller acreage with little to no erosion controls and building outwards rather than up. In the process, we’re destroying farmlands and forests. We want to treat the cause of suburban sprawl, and MountainTrue is working to do that.” Read more on our blog.

Treatment of Parrot Feather in Lake Chatuge in Towns County, GA begins this month.

Read about the Treatment Plan here.

Upcoming events hosted by our friends at Mainspring Conservation Trust:

????April 13: Cullasaja Gorge Cleanup near Highlands, NC 

????May 17-19: Needmore Game Lands BioBlitz near Franklin, NC

MountainTrue Annual Gathering: save the date!

Mark your calendars and join us for our Annual Member Gathering in Asheville, NC on September 14, 2024!

Septic repair funds still available for qualifying homeowners

MountainTrue has partnered with the NC Dept. of Health and Human Services and local health departments to provide septic system repair grants to qualifying property owners in Cherokee County and others across WNC. Residents of rural areas outside of town are highly likely to have onsite septic systems. Problems with septic systems usually arise as systems age or when maintenance is neglected. Cherokee County is being prioritized because a long stretch of the Valley River is unsafe for swimming due to bacterial contamination; leaking septic systems in older neighborhoods have been identified as one part of the problem. Macon County is also being prioritized based on new Swim Guide data in the Little Tennessee River in Franklin. Property owners: review eligibility requirements and apply for the repair program here.

Kid’s merch contest

Calling all budding artists aged 10-14 — MountainTrue Kid’s Merchandise Contest Launches on Earth Day (April 22)! Learn more here.

Print-on-demand merch options

Looking for a more responsible way to support MountainTrue’s mission and our environment while raising critical dollars for our ongoing work? We’ve partnered with Recover Brands to offer a mix of sustainable apparel throughout the month of April. All items in our temporary online store are printed on-demand when you place your order, which eliminates waste and relieves us from dealing with the expense and hassle of excess inventory. These items will ship straight to your door and Recover will send MountainTrue a check at the end of the month. Join us this Earth Month in making more intentional decisions for our organization and our earth. Place your order now!

MountainTrue hellbender hoodies & t-shirts are back in stock!

Proceeds fund the work of MountainTrue, including our clean water team. We are excited to announce that our Hellbender shirts are now 100% organic cotton. These have sold out fast so don’t wait — get yours today!