Asheville River Day Cleanup presented by Lua Flora and the French Broad Riverkeeper Team in Asheville, NC-CANCELED
2024-07-13 11:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Craven Street River Access, 192 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC, 28801
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we regret that the French Broad Riverkeeper must cancel the clean-up portion of this event. The music event is happening as planned. We hope you will consider attending to support Lua Flora and the other talented musicians. More information about Asheville River Day Concert can be found here.

French Broad Paddle Trail Clean Up Alexander to Walnut 7/19 near Alexander, NC
2024-07-19 09:00 - 14:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
MountainTrue members and the general public are invited to help clean up trash with French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, Jack Henderson. The clean up will focus on the French Broad River between Alexander River Park and Walnut Island River Park in northern Buncombe County. This will be a paddle-based clean up, with the option to stay on land to clean up the access points and roadside areas if paddling is not of interest.
MountainTrue can provide canoes to volunteers with previous canoeing experience, but attendees are otherwise requested to bring their own boats. If you don’t have a boat, or have limited canoeing experience, you are welcome to come and help clean up the access areas.
There might also be an option to paddle out-and-back to Whittier Branch Island, a future Paddle Trail campsite, to clean up trash from the island and return to Alexander River Park (not paddling downstream). Overall, there are class 1-2 rapids on this section of river that require some knowledge and experience with paddling, especially with boats filled with collected garbage.
MountainTrue will provide a limited number of canoes, paddles, and PFDs. PFDs must be worn by all participants, so if you bring your own boat, bring a PFD. MountainTrue will also provide trash bags and removal of garbage. Volunteers should bring their own gloves.
Children are welcome to attend this event as a Paddle Access volunteer. They may be on the water if they have prior paddling experience. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring:
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Lunch
Gloves
PFD if bringing your own boat
This event will be rain or shine (with the exception of heavy rain). The event will be canceled if water levels are too high or too low.

Paddling Film Festival World Tour Screening in Asheville, NC
2024-08-22 18:30 - 21:00 | New Belgium Brewing Company, 21 Craven St, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
MountainTrue is excited to bring a showing of the Paddling Film Festival World Tour to Asheville, North Carolina on August 22, 2024! 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, including Swim Guide and the French Broad Paddle Trail.
Since 2006, the Paddling Film Festival World Tour has showcased the best paddling films. You’ll be inspired to explore rivers, lakes, and oceans, push extremes, embrace the paddling lifestyle, and appreciate the wild places. Since Rapid Media launched the festival in 2006, the World Tour has screened 959 times to more than 282,864 audience members. Rapid Media has awarded $71,000 to paddling filmmakers and helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for charitable causes. The Paddling Film Festival World Tour has become one of the largest paddling events in the world.
Doors to New Belgium’s Brewhouse will open at 6:00 PM, and the show will begin around 6:30. We’ll have several short films before an intermission, which will feature a short presentation about the work of MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper program and Headwaters Outfitters, and a raffle featuring a variety of outdoor gear and swag. Following the intermission, there will be one longer film and a couple more short clips before wrapping up for the evening at 9:00. Raffle tickets will be sold at the event.
Hungry or Thirsty? New Belgium Brewing will have a food truck on site and beer for sale inside the event space. MountainTrue will have popcorn available for free and non-alcoholic beverages for sale. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Tickets are $15.00 in advance for adults and $20.00 at the door (if available). Kids under the age of 12 are $5.
**Online registration will close on 8/21/2024. Tickets may be available at the door but please email amy@mountaintrue.org to check availability.
Any other questions can be sent to jack@mountaintrue.org

French Broad River Clean-Up – Paddling Pisgah Forest to Penrose w/ The Hub
2024-08-29 10:00 - 16:00 | Penrose Boating Access Area, Apac Drive, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768
Come help MountainTrue and The Hub clean up the French Broad River in Transylvania County between Pisgah Forest River Access and Penrose Boating Access Area. This will be a boat-based cleanup on a 5.5-mile section of calm water with the option to clean access points if you do not wish to be on the water.
MountainTrue will provide a limited number of canoes to volunteers with previous paddling experience, but attendees are otherwise welcome and encouraged to bring their own boats and gear. If you don’t have a boat, or have limited paddling experience, you are welcome to join and help clean up the access points.
Children are welcome to attend this event as a Paddle Access volunteer. They may be on the water if they have prior paddling experience. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring:
Clothes that can get dirty and wet during the event
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Lunch
Gloves
PFD/boat/gear if bringing your own boat
MountainTrue and The Hub will provide:
– Canoes
-PFDs and paddles to those who signed up to borrow a boat
– Trash bags
– Disposal of trash afterwards
– Shuttle of people and gear between the put-in and take-out
This event will be rain or shine (with the exception of heavy rain). The event will be canceled if water levels are too high or too low.

MountainTrue 2024 Annual Gathering in Asheville, NC
2024-09-14 15:30 - 17:30 | Devil’s Foot, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd., Ste 10, Asheville, NC, 28803, United States
You’re invited to the Annual MountainTrue Member Gathering on Saturday, September 14th. We will be back at Devil’s Foot Beverage in Asheville, NC this year.
Come early at 3 pm to meet our Board Members. General programming will begin at 3:30 pm and will include reflecting on our achievements to date in 2024 and honoring outstanding Volunteers. We will have heavy snacks and MountainTrue will cover the cost of your first beer, wine or n/a beverage.
The fun doesn’t stop there. Stick around after the business wraps for a fiery round of MountainTrue-themed trivia.
This event is open to current members of MountainTrue. Check your current membership status here or by emailing members@mountaintrue.org. If you’re not a current member, we would love to have you join us — You don’t want to miss out on the fun!
Come raise a glass with us to another year of being stronger together!
This event is free to current members but, if you would like to help us cover the cost of the event, the suggested donation per attendee is $25. This can be made as an additional donation on the registration form.

Fall Float on the French Broad Paddle Trail with MountainTrue and Headwaters Outfitters in Rosman, NC
2024-09-21 10:30 - 15:00 | Headwater Outfitters Outdoor Adventures, 25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC, 28772
Come float the headwaters of the French Broad River with Headwaters Outfitters, MountainTrue, and local partners in celebration of North Carolina being the Great Trails State. The French Broad River was designated a Tennessee State Scenic River in 1968, a North Carolina State Trail in 1987, and officially launched as the French Broad Paddle Trail by MountainTrue and RiverLink in 2012. MountainTrue is North Carolina State Parks’ Partner Organization for the French Broad River State Trail and leads watershed-wide Paddle Trail efforts through its French Broad Riverkeeper program based in Asheville.
While the French Broad Paddle Trail flows for over 140 miles in both North Carolina and Tennessee, the upper sections in Transylvania County have become especially popular due to the plentiful access, calm water, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. This float will experience all of these factors as we travel from the river’s beginnings in Rosman to Headwaters Outfitters’ Hannah Ford Campground, a distance of 8 miles and approximately 3 hours. Before the float, we’ll present some light programming to cover the history, present status, and future plans for the Paddle Trail, and afterward – there’s an option to attend the annual “Paddle to the Pork Bluegrass Festival” happening at Hannah Ford Campground or be shuttled back to your car and head into Brevard for an evening of your choosing.
Participants should have prior paddling experience and be comfortable navigating their boat of choice in moving water. Boats and gear can be rented from Headwaters Outfitters, or you’re welcome to bring your own. Lunch will be eaten along the river, so plan to pack your own or reserve a catered option.
We hope you’ll join us for a beautiful start to autumn here on the French Broad River in Transylvania County.
Feel free to reach out to Jack Henderson, MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, at jack@mountaintrue.org with any questions.
Click this link for ticket options and to book your trip: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/headwatersoutfitters/items/544504/availability/1448057332/book/?flow=no&full-items=yes

**CANCELED** Plastics Please" river clean-up in Asheville, NC
2024-10-05 13:00 - 15:00 | Smith Mill Creek, 1068 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC, 28806
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 5 AND 6.
Join MountainTrue and partners from Sierra Club, Enviro Action Committee and Plastic Free WNC to clean up Smith Mill Creek. Our main haul will be single-use plastics, but we’ll get whatever trash we can. Then, we’ll move down the street to call on our large retailers, such as Ingles, to reduce their single-use plastic contributions to a growing pollution problem in our watershed.
Please remember to bring:
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Gloves
**Due to the possibility of urban and potentially hazardous trash in this creek, please no one under the age of 12. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire outing.
Rain date: is Sunday, Oct. 6th. Please save both dates on your calendar.

**CANCELED** MountainTrue Volunteer Appreciation Party in Asheville, NC
2024-10-08 18:00 - 19:00 | The Outpost, 521 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 8.
Have you volunteered with MountainTrue this year? We want to acknowledge and celebrate the folks who have gotten in the weeds and dirt (literally and figuratively) with us. Let’s be honest, we know time is precious. Any time you spend supporting our efforts is greatly appreciated.
Let us say thanks by buying you a drink, providing some light appetizers and a chance to hang out with fellow volunteers and MountainTrue staff.
We will be at The Outpost in Asheville, NC on Tuesday, October 8th from 6 to 7 pm. (If it’s raining, look for us under the covered area).
Don’t forget that MountainTrue volunteers are eligible for a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. To receive your complimentary membership, please email members@mountaintrue.org.

**CANCELED** Hellbender Puppet crafting night with Street Creature Puppet Collective in Asheville, NC
2024-10-10 18:00 - 20:00 | Asheville Mall, 3 S Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC, 28805
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 10.
Join MountainTrue and Street Creature Puppet Collective for an evening crafting props to use in the Holiday Parade in Downtown Asheville on November 23rd. (Stay tuned for more information on how you can be involved with the parade). Help with a giant 3 person Hellbender puppet, painting cardboard fish cut outs and more! Originally scheduled for September 24th this has been rescheduled to October 10th.
You don’t have to be crafty to join this evening of fun (kids are welcome!). Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty as we may be working with paint, glue, etc.
MountainTrue will provide light snacks and sparkling waters but participants are welcome to bring their own food and drink.
Specific instructions on how to find the studio will be sent once you register.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up near Asheville, NC 10/31
2024-10-31 10:00 - 13:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins, 9 Midnight Drive, Asheville, 28806, United States
Join MountainTrue’s Clean Water Team and staff from River Link to help remove debris and mitigate pollution in the French Broad.
Volunteers will meet at the Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins at 10 am on Thursday, October 31st.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants and bring any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Arden, NC 11/8
2024-11-08 09:00 - 12:00 | Glen Bridge River Park, 77 Pinner Road, Arden, NC, 28704
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Glen Bridge River Park in Arden. We will focus on the park itself, along with riparian areas on both sides of the river, extending down to Corcoran Paige River Park.
Feel free to bring your boat to retrieve trash from the water, and if you do – bring your PFD and appropriate clothing and footwear.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
We hope to provide lunch for volunteers at the end of the event, but that is not guaranteed, so bring water and snacks. and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Marshall 11/14
2024-11-14 09:00 - 12:00 | Redmon Dam River Access, 2753 Redmon Rd., Marshall, NC, 28753, United States
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Redmon Dam River Access downstream of Marshall. We will be focusing on the park itself, along with riparian areas on river-right, extending downstream as far as we can walk.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
We hope to provide lunch for volunteers at the end of the event, but that is not guaranteed, so bring water and snacks. and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Sample Blitz in Asheville 11/14
2024-11-14 10:00 - 15:00 | MountainTrue — Asheville, 29 North Market Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Help members of the French Broad River water team take water samples to assess Hurricane Helene’s impact on some of our sewer infrastructure. We’ll meet at the MountainTrue Asheville Office where we will give out supplies and a map before dividing up to grab samples and do visual assessments of some of our region’s sewer lines. We’ll teach you everything you need to know.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders, and bring any snacks or drinks you may need.
End time will depend on how quickly we complete our sampling.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups or Sampling!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Alexander 11/21
2024-11-21 09:00 - 12:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Whittier Branch, a future French Broad Paddle Trail campsite adjacent to Alexander River Park. If Alexander River Park is still closed, we will focus on the riparian areas upstream of the park and also the island, via ferrying over from river-right.
Please bring a boat if you have one, and if you do – bring your PFD and appropriate clothing and footwear.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
We hope to provide lunch for volunteers at the end of the event, but that is not guaranteed, so bring water and snacks. and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

Join MountainTrue at the 2024 Asheville Holiday Jamboree on Nov. 23rd
2024-11-23 11:00 - 17:00 | Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
In light of the exhaustion of local resources and the catastrophic events of the past month+, the Asheville Holiday Parade has become the Asheville Holiday Jamboree this year. The event will take place on Saturday, November 23rd from 11 am to 5 pm in Pack Square Park.
MountainTrue will have a tent at the event, showing that we are MountainStrong and we need YOU! Let’s celebrate the resilience of our community and bring some much-needed joy to the season.
We need volunteers to take shifts dressed as Native Species, engaging with people and handing out native seed packets.
Volunteer Shifts Needed:
11 am to 1 pm
1 pm to 3 pm

When you aren’t hanging around the MountainTrue tent, make sure to catch some of the performances at the main stage.
If you want to help but aren’t sure what to wear, find some ideas Appalachian Endemics and Native Species List for 2024
**The official theme for the Jamboree is Winter Wonderland so if you want to add a snowy element to your costume, let your creativity take the “reins”!
Please reach out to amy@mountaintrue.org with any questions.

French Broad River Clean-Up: Paddling Glen Bridge to Bent Creek in Asheville, NC 12/5
2024-12-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Bent Creek River Park, 1610 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC, 28806
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene along the river between Glen Bridge River Park and Bent Creek River Park. This will be a boat-based paddling clean-up on a 5-mile section of class 1 river. All participants must have prior paddling experience and have proper cold-weather attire.
MountainTrue has up to 8 canoes available to borrow, but participants can bring their own boat – canoes, jon boats, and drift boats would be best (not kayaks or inflatables). This will be a paddling-only event (no option for only working the access points).
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
Please bring any water or food that you need. Please scroll to the bottom to register.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Alexander 12/12
2024-12-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
Come help the French Broad Riverkeeper team clean up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Alexander River Park in Buncombe County. We will be removing garbage from within the park itself and along the riparian areas upstream and downstream of the park. Please note that this will be a land-based clean-up (no boats).
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

Swannanoa Watershed Sample Blitz in Asheville 12/12
2024-12-12 10:30 - 15:00 | MountainTrue — Asheville, 29 North Market Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Help members of the French Broad River water team take water samples to assess Hurricane Helene’s impact. We’ll meet at the MountainTrue Asheville Office where we will give out supplies and a map before dividing up to grab samples. We’ll teach you everything you need to know, send you off to collect samples and have you drop samples back at our office to process. This event will be focused in the Swannanoa watershed.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders, and bring any snacks or drinks you may need.
End time will depend on how quickly we complete our sampling.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups or Sampling!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Holiday Clean-up in Marshall 12/19
2024-12-19 10:00 - 13:00 | Barnard Park, 1995 Barnard Rd, Marshall, NC, 28753
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene at Barnard Park. We will be removing trash and debris from the park itself and along the riparian areas upstream, downstream and across the river. Please note that this will be a land-based clean-up (no boats).
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks. Please dress for the weather and expect to get dirty. If you have festive holiday clothing you don’t mind getting dirty please wear it!
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

2025 Paddling Film Festival World Tour RAFFLE benefiting MountainTrue in Asheville, NC
2025-01-01 - 2025-03-06 | NC
2025 Paddling Film Festival Raffle featuring TWO raffle packages with a variety of outdoor swag.
Buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win!
All ticket sales benefit the work of MountainTrue. You do not need to be present at the film screening to win. Full raffle guidelines below.
HOW TO ENTER THE RAFFLE:
1. Enter online by completing this form and paying with a credit card OR (Online ticket sales cut off at 11:59 pm on March 5th, 2025)
2. Pay in person at the event on March 6th in Asheville, NC.
P.S. Want to watch the films? Join us for the Paddling Film Festival in Asheville, NC on March 6th.

Buy Tickets for the 2025 Paddling Film Festival World Tour Screening in Asheville, NC benefiting MountainTrue (Screening March 6th)
2025-01-01 19:00 - 2025-03-06 21:30 | The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
It’s back!! MountainTrue is excited to bring the Paddling Film Festival World Tour back to Asheville, North Carolina on Thursday, March 6th in honor of World Water Day. World Water Day, held on March 22nd every year since 1993, is an annual United Nations Observance focusing on the importance of freshwater.
What better way to celebrate than by watching the best paddling films and being in community with other clean water supporters?! You’ll be inspired to explore rivers, lakes, and oceans, push extremes, embrace the paddling lifestyle, and appreciate the wild places.
Doors to the Grey Eagle will open at 6 PM, and the show will begin at 7. Seats are general admission so come early to snag your spot and grab some food from the Grey Eagle Taqueria.
Tickets are being sold by The Grey Eagle and are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Kids under the age of 12 are $5. (*Venue convenience fees not included in ticket pricing). Buy film tickets now!
We’ll have several short films before an intermission, which will feature a short presentation about the work of MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper Program and a RAFFLE featuring TWO Raffle Packages with a variety of outdoor gear and swag. What are you waiting for? Grab a raffle ticket now!
The Films:

Film
Duration

Ganga Girls
0:19:17

Streamers, Steamers and Struggles on the Krka
0:08:23

Ay Chihuahua!
0:17:07

Duration of 1st half
0:44:47

Interval
0:15:00

Made x Mtns
0:06:40

The Smoke that Thunders
0:04:30

Van by a River-The Abby Holcombe Story
0:15:01

Sbonelo
0:09:00

Duration of 2nd half
0:35:11

Total Event Time
1:49:58

A HUGE Thank you to our sponsors for making this event happen:

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Alexander 1/18 hosted by United by Blue
2025-01-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
There is still a large amount of debris along the French Broad River in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Join us in coming together to help the Asheville community by cleaning up the French Broad River. Removing debris from the river will allow for outdoor recreation and tourism to return to the area as well as get rid of any materials that might be leaching harmful chemicals into the water. Now more than ever it is important for us to come together and support communities in need.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks.
We will provide free bagels and coffee for volunteers in the morning, but feel free to bring water and any food that you need. United by Blue will also be donating sustainable giveaways for volunteers!
After the cleanup, New Belgium Brewing has graciously donated FREE BEER for volunteers. We will head to the New Belgium Brewery at 21 Craven Street after we wrap the cleanup.
SIGN-UP HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/french-broad-river-cleanup-tickets-1082664922929?aff=oddtdtcreator
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

Save the Date! French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Alexander, NC 1/23-CANCELED
2025-01-23 10:00 - 14:00 | Walnut Island River Park, 3042 Old Marshall Hwy, Alexander, NC, 28701
Due to the incredibly cold weather we are experiencing this week, this event has been canceled. Please sign up for the clean-up on January 30th instead! Come help the French Broad Riverkeeper team clean up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Livestaking Workday near Fletcher or Brevard 1/23 CANCELED
2025-01-23 10:00 - 15:00 | NC
Due to the incredibly cold temperatures in the area this week, this event has been canceled. Please check out one of the other upcoming Live Staking dates! Come help us start to restore riverbanks of the French Broad after Hurricane Helene. We’ll plant stakes that will eventually grow into trees.
Please bring:

Lunch/snacks
Warm layers & gloves (we’ll be on the water, so dress for weather and make sure it’s things you don’t mind getting dirty)
Rubber boots and/or waders
An extra set of dry clothes

We will email you with the exact location and more details closer to the event date.
We’ll decide where we’re planting based on that week’s weather and will be in touch about final location. Expect work locations to be either in Fletcher or in the Rosman/Brevard areas. Depending on the warmth that day, we may be paddling, so there could be an opportunity to canoe down and plant as we go, but we will let you know beforehand.

French Broad River Live Staking Workday near Fletcher or Brevard 1/25-CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER
2025-01-25 10:00 - 15:00 | NC
Due to the blast of cold weather that has hit our region, the ground is frozen in the areas that we planned to work. This event will be canceled. Please check our Events Calendar for upcoming workdates in February. Come help us start to restore riverbanks of the French Broad after Hurricane Helene. We’ll plant stakes that will eventually grow into trees.
Please bring:

Lunch/snacks
Warm layers & gloves (we’ll be on the water, so dress for weather and make sure it’s things you don’t mind getting dirty)
Rubber boots and/or waders
An extra set of dry clothes

We will email you with the exact location and more details closer to the event date.
We’ll decide where we’re planting based on that week’s weather and will be in touch about final location. Expect work locations to be either in Fletcher or in the Rosman/Brevard areas. Depending on the warmth that day, we may be paddling, so there could be an opportunity to canoe down and plant as we go, but we will let you know beforehand.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up near Asheville 1/30
2025-01-30 10:00 - 14:00 | Walnut Island River Park, 3042 Old Marshall Hwy, Alexander, NC, 28701
Come help the French Broad Riverkeeper team clean up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas upstream and downstream. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

Everett Rd. Transylvania County Clean-up with MountainTrue & Conserving Carolina 2/8
2025-02-08 10:00 - 14:00 | Everett Rd. Clean-up, 44 Everett Rd, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team and Conserving Carolina as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Transylvania County. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas upstream and downstream. Please note this will be a land-based clean up.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. (Expect to get dirty!) We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
Please bring water and snacks and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Live Staking Workday near Fletcher or Brevard 2/20-CANCELED
2025-02-20 10:00 - 15:00 | NC
Due to extremely cold weather, we are forced to cancel this event. The ground will be too cold. Please check out our other live staking event on February 22nd! Come help us start to restore riverbanks of the French Broad after Hurricane Helene. We’ll plant stakes that will eventually grow into trees.
Please bring:

Lunch/snacks
Warm layers & gloves (we’ll be on the water, so dress for weather and make sure it’s things you don’t mind getting dirty)
Rubber boots and/or waders
An extra set of dry clothes

We will email you with the exact location and more details closer to the event date.
We’ll decide where we’re planting based on that week’s weather and will be in touch about final location. Expect work locations to be either in Fletcher or in the Rosman/Brevard areas. Depending on the warmth that day, we may be paddling, so there could be an opportunity to canoe down and plant as we go, but we will let you know beforehand.

French Broad River Live Staking Workday near Fletcher or Brevard 2/22
2025-02-22 10:00 - 15:00 | NC
Come help us start to restore riverbanks of the French Broad after Hurricane Helene. We’ll plant stakes that will eventually grow into trees.
Please bring:

Lunch/snacks
Warm layers & gloves (we’ll be on the water, so dress for weather and make sure it’s things you don’t mind getting dirty)
Rubber boots and/or waders
An extra set of dry clothes

We will email you with the exact location and more details closer to the event date.
We’ll decide where we’re planting based on that week’s weather and will be in touch about final location. Expect work locations to be either in Fletcher or in the Rosman/Brevard areas. Depending on the warmth that day, we may be paddling, so there could be an opportunity to canoe down and plant as we go, but we will let you know beforehand.

French Broad River Clean-up at Silverline Park in Woodfin, NC 3/8
2025-03-08 11:30 - 15:30 | Silverline Park, 1050 Riverside Drive, Woodfin, NC, 28804
Hosted by the Town of Woodfin in cooperation with Riverlink and MountainTrue–join us for a land-based clean-up after Hurricane Helene.
Youth aged 14 and older are welcome to participate. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.

Register Now!
