MountainTrue

World Water Day 2024 with MountainTrue's Clean Water Teams
2024-03-22 - 2024-03-25 | North Carolina
Join us as we celebrate World Water Day throughout our regions. What is World Water Day, you might ask? It’s a day to acknowledge and appreciate the importance of water and the hard work we do around protecting and conserving this precious resource.
Throughout the Southern Blue Ridge, our 4 Riverkeepers and Western Region Water Quality Team diligently work to ensure the health and safety of our rivers, streams, and lakes so they can be resources we can enjoy today and into the future.
On March 22nd, World Water Day here is where you can catch us:
Asheville, NC: We will be at The Rad Brew Co. in Asheville, NC, from 5 to 7 pm. Chat with French Broad Riverkeeper Hartwell Carson, and grab a glass of “Stream of Conscience”. A portion of proceeds from “Stream of Conscience” beer sales will benefit the work of MountainTrue.
French Broad Riverkeeper, Hartwell Carson
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Boone, NC: Catch Watauga Riverkeeper, Andy Hill and the High Country Water Team at AMB from 5-8 pm. Raise a glass to over 50 years of the Clean Water Act! Come visit the MountainTrue team at AMB and lets cheers to fishable, swimmable, and drinkable water. We couldn’t have good beer or good fishing without good water!
Peace, Love and Water Symposium at Appalachian State University (ASU) from 3-5 pm. Visit the Watauga Riverkeeper team at ASU’s World Water Day celebration! This event will have tabling activities, geology museum tours, and presentations from local water activists. Thank you to our friends at the Office of Sustainability for having us!
Watauga Riverkeeper, Andy Hill
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Hendersonville, NC: Catch Green Riverkeeper, Erica Shanks at Trailside Brewing Company from 5-8. Come listen to music and grab a drink (n/a options also available).
Green Riverkeeper, Erica Shanks
Shelby, NC: Broad Riverkeeper, David Caldwell will be at Newgrass Brewing from 4-7 pm.
Broad Riverkeeper, David Caldwell
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And on Monday, March 25th we’ll be in Bryson City at Mountain Layers Brewing Co. from 5 to 7 pm. Come chat with Western Regional Director, Callie Moore and learn more about our restoration work at Island Park, the Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail, Swim Guide, and more!
Western Regional Director, Callie Moore
Let’s give a cheers for our hardworking Riverkeepers and Clean Water Team!

Green Drinks in Hendersonville, NC: Hendersonville Water and Sewer - Utility Update
2024-04-11 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
Join us for an informative session led by Adam Steurer, Utilities Director, who will summarize utility history, operations, project updates, and initiatives. Hendersonville provides 80,000 people with water service and 21,000 people with sewer service in Hendersonville and surrounding Henderson County.
Adam Steurer, Utilities Director, is passionate about leading the Hendersonville water and sewer utility in providing the highest level of service to the community while enhancing sustainability through conscientious stewardship of water resources.
5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.
6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn more about current environmental issues, have relevant discussions, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks; just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

Spring Wildflower Hike near Shelby, NC 4-12
2024-04-12 10:30 - 14:30 | Broad River Greenway Canoe Access, 126 Broad River Drive, Shelby, NC, 28152, United States
Join our MountainTrue Broad Riverkeeper, David Caldwell, as we explore the downstream trail at our Broad River Greenway. David will discuss the value and concerns associated with the Broad River along the way.
Meeting location is the Broad River Greenway main parking lot beside the Ranger Station and bathrooms at 10:30 sharp.
This out and back hike is approximately 5 miles with almost no elevation change, although the terrain is rugged. Children are welcome on this hike if they can hike 5 miles.
Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the hike.
While we love our furry friends, please no dogs on this hike.
Please bring:

Appropriate outerwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Water
Lunch and snacks
Walking stick (if you have one)

The rain date for this event is April 19th. Please hold both dates in your calendar.

CANCELED: Macroinvertebrate and Water Quality Volunteer Training in Saluda, NC
2024-04-13 09:30 - 16:00 | Saluda Library, 44 W Main St, Saluda, NC, 28773
This event has regretfully been canceled. Join your Green Riverkeeper for a full day of volunteer training for our Clean Water programs! Most of the day, you will learn about our SMIE (Stream Monitoring Information Exchange) program, which looks for macro-invertebrates in our local creeks and streams to determine stream health.
We will also add time to discuss and demonstrate how to take samples for our summer Swim Guide E. Coli monitoring and monthly samples for our VWIN (Volunteer Water Information Network) program.
The morning session will be classroom-style at the Saluda library. In the afternoon we will be on private property at Big Hungry sampling for bugs in a gorgeous location! (Registrants will follow each other to the private location day of training.)
We are limiting class attendance to 15 people to ensure everyone has a great hands-on experience. After the training, you can sign-up to volunteer with our clean water programs that stand out to you!
Participants need to be prepared to get into the creek in the afternoon. Waders will be provided but shoes that can get wet and go over the wader booties are required.
**Please be prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen and any medical supplies participants may need. There are local spots to grab lunch after the morning session to take to the afternoon location, or participants may bring their own lunch.
**For questions about future opportunities, please email erica@mountaintrue.org

MountainTrue's Henderson County Convenience Center Tour in Hendersonville, NC
2024-04-18 16:30 - 17:30 | Henderson County Convenience Center, 265 Convenience Center Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28791
Join us for a tour of the Henderson County Convenience Center and Compost Facility. 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 an excellent visit for individuals who are looking to find out more about recycling options in Henderson County or individuals interested in visiting the compost facility.
This tour will include walking on uneven surfaces so please wear appropriate close-toed shoes. Kids are welcome with a supervising parent or guardian.
If the tour is full, please email amy@mountaintrue.org to be put on the waitlist.
Parking instructions will be sent to registrants closer to the event date.

Hendo Earth Fest in Downtown Hendersonville, NC
2024-04-20 10:00 - 15:00 | North Carolina
Join MountainTrue at the City of Hendersonville’s Hendo Earth Fest! The purpose of the Hendo Earth Fest is to promote community education for all ages on environmental and sustainable practices, inspire action, and renew and expand commitments to protect our planet. Local and regional environmental allies focus on participation/hands-on activities and demonstrations designed to educate, renew, and expand action to protect our Western North Carolina environment and natural resources.
Ride your bike to the Hendo Earth Fest! Join a family-friendly bike ride to Hendo Earth Fest starting at 10:00 a.m. at First Congregational Church (5th Ave. & White Pine St) and ride down 4th Avenue to downtown Hendersonville. Blue Ridge Bicycle Club is providing free secure bike parking at City Hall.
Full event information found here.
Location: Downtown Hendersonville, Main Street from 6th Avenue to 4th Avenue and 5th Avenue.
Photo courtesy of: Jeff Shields, Conserving Carolina

Earth Day Kid's Merchandise Design Contest
2024-04-22 08:00 - 2024-05-31 23:59 | North Carolina
Calling all budding artists aged 10-14. In Honor of Earth Day, MountainTrue is hosting our first Kid’s Merchandise Design Contest.
The winner will receive the chance to work with a professional designer to make their design merchandise ready AND a wearable item with their design on it. They will also be featured in a MountainTrue e-newsletter as the contest winner.
Complete guidelines and requirements are below:
Theme: I love mountains
1. A preference will be given to designs that incorporate the beauty and biodiversity of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains
2. A preference will be given to designs that encourage others to share your love of our mountains and region
We want you to use your creativity to show why you love mountains. What makes them special to you?
Other rules:
1. No designs will be considered if they contain offensive material or profanity
2. Applicant must be within the age range at the time of submission
3. Must be available in August to meet virtually with the designer
4. No restrictions on the number of colors used for the design or the number of entries you can submit
Submission deadline: May 31, 2024
Winner selection Process: Three finalists will be selected by MountainTrue staff on June 3rd. The three final designs will be presented to MountainTrue supporters and the general public for voting through June 30th. The final winner will be notified during the first week of July.
Submit my design. (Parent/Guardian permission required to participate).

Earth Day Reflections: An Artistic Celebration in Flat Rock, NC benefiting MountainTrue
2024-04-22 17:00 - 19:00 | The Gallery at Flat Rock, 2702-A Greenville Highway, Flat Rock, NC, 28731, United States
The Gallery at Flat Rock invites you to Earth Day Reflections: An Artistic Celebration. This evening event will kick off at the gallery at 5:00 pm on Monday, April 22 (Earth Day 2024). Proceeds from this event will benefit MountainTrue.
Earth Day Reflections will include poetry readings, reflections, information sharing, and performances. Click here for the full schedule. The event will also feature, Katie Breckheimer (former Board Director of MountainTrue) speaking briefly about how the organization is working to protect the natural environment in our beautiful mountain region.
Join us at 5 pm with delicious tastings from Stump Farms before attendees are seated at 5:30 pm for the program. All of our senses will be awakened at this event!
Tickets to Earth Day Reflections are $15 per person. Purchase tickets online at the link below or stop by the gallery during normal operating hours.
Purchase tickets!

2024 Paddle Raffle to support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper
2024-04-23 - 2024-09-12 | North Carolina
2024 Paddle Raffle to support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper
Support MountainTrue and the Broad Riverkeeper with your raffle ticket purchase. Enter to win a paddle designed and crafted by Broad Riverkeeper, David Caldwell.
This is paddle #30 in a series of canoe and kayak paddles designed and created by David Caldwell, MountainTrue’s Broad Riverkeeper. This paddle is made of walnut, basswood, oak, and mahogany. It is 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.
Comes with a custom paddle hanger and small jar of “paddle balm” for maintenance.
HOW TO ENTER THE RAFFLE:
1. Enter online by completing this form and paying with a credit card (Online ticket sales will end at 11:59 pm on September 12th)
OR
2. Purchase tickets in person at the Annual MountainTrue Member Gathering in Asheville, NC on September 14th
**Must be a current member of MountainTrue to attend the member gathering

Invasive Removal at Double Head Knob near Arden, NC 4/24
2024-04-24 09:00 - 16:00 | Mountains To Sea Trail, Arden, NC, 28074
Join MountainTrue Biologist, Josh Kelly for an invasive plant removal workday. This workday will include a scenic and strenuous 3-mile hike to Double Head Knob, an excellent example of a montane grassland growing over a sloping rock outcrop. The site is being threatened by several species of invasive plants, which participants will help control mechanically and with herbicide.
We normally welcome younger folks on outings but for this workday, participants must be over the age of 14, able to complete a strenuous hike and comfortable using herbicides.
Meeting location:
We will meet at 9 am at Bent Creek Gap where the Mountains to Sea Trail crosses Bent Creek Rd.
Remember to Bring:
Long sleeved shirt
Long pants
Sturdy footwear
Two liters of water
Lunch
Rain gear
The rain date for this event is April 26, 2024. Please save both dates on your calendar.

MountainTrue Spring Clean on the Green with Co-Founder of LiquidLogic Kayaks, Shane Benedict in Saluda, NC
2024-05-04 10:00 - 15:00 | Fishtop Access, 2302 Green River Cove, Saluda, North Carolina, 28773
Join MountainTrue’s Green Riverkeeper and Liquidlogic Co-founder Shane Benedict for the 14th Annual Green River Spring Cleaning!
We’ll meet at the Fishtop Access at 10:00 AM on Saturday, May 4th where we will divide into teams and then 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 from the Upper Green below the Tuxedo hydroelectric station, through the Narrows, down the Lower Green, and to Lake Adger.
*Roadside clean-up is also an option for folks who do not want to get on the water!
Bring your: boat, paddling gear (including life jacket), snacks/lunch, water, sunscreen, any necessary medical supplies you may need, and be prepared to get dirty and wet.
This is not a guided adventure but a volunteer clean-up event. Please make sure you are comfortable on the section of river you are cleaning on as there will not be a “guide” specifically leading you down the river. Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian for the entire duration of the clean-up.
MountainTrue has a limited number of duckies and gear if needed, but you must register in advance.
Stick around for the after party in downtown Saluda at the Spring Green Bash with Green River Adventures! There will be a boat raffle to support the Green Riverkeeper program!

2024 Spring Green Bash in Saluda, NC
2024-05-04 17:00 - 21:00 | Green River Adventures, 111 E. Main Street, Saluda, NC, 28773, United States
2024 Spring Green Bash
Get ready for an exciting day full of kayaking trips, waterfall rappelling, treks, cold beer, and good music when the Spring Green Bash — Saluda’s favorite river and block party — returns on Saturday, May 4th!
The whole Green River community is invited to the Spring Green Bash block party at Green River Adventures in downtown Saluda, NC. 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 brand new Liquidlogic Coupe named…SALUDA! Proceeds from the raffle benefit MountainTrue’s Green Riverkeeper – the protector and defender of the Green River Watershed.
The party will be held from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the parking lot for Green River Adventures at 150 E Main St., Saluda, NC 28773.
Where: Green River Adventures, 150 E Main St., Saluda, NC 28773
When: Saturday, May 4, 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
HOW TO ENTER THE RAFFLE:
1. Enter online by completing this form and paying with a credit card OR
2. Pay cash in person at the event on May 4
**No tickets are needed for the block party. Tickets are only for the raffle.

PHHAT Treatment Days on the Green with Hemlock Restoration Initiative on May 5th and May 25th
2024-05-05 09:00 - 2024-05-25 16:00 | North Carolina
Join us on the Upper section of the Green River (class III) on May 5th and/or May 25th and become a member of the Paddlers Hemlock Health Action Taskforce (PHHAT).
This collaboration between the Hemlock Restoration Initiative, American Whitewater, the North Carolina 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 non-native sap-sucking insect), whilst ensuring the safety and protection of water quality.
For the Upper Green, plan on meeting at the put-in (Pot Shoals Rd) at 9 AM. We will drop boats and head to the Gallimore lot to set shuttle. We will review the treatment plan at the put-in, including river safety and group coordination on the river. We will scout and set safety for the major rapids on the Upper (Bayless, Wanda, Triple Drop). Expect to be off the river by 4 PM.
Please bring:

Your river gear and boat! No river gear will be provided! For special requests, we can provide inflatable kayaks. Dress for the weather and assumption of having to take a dip in chilly water. Please be sure you are qualified to paddle this class III, which is a very remote run. Participants may be asked to provide evidence of their experience level prior to the trip.
Paddlers will get out of their boats and climb up the river bank to reach the base of the trees where they will perform the treatments. Sometimes repeatedly. The terrain varies from flat to moderately steep. As such expect to be traversing difficult terrain in paddling gear (we will allow time to remove helmet, lifejacket and spray skirt at each treatment get-out spot).
Bring plenty of hydration materials and snacks, more than you would for a normal paddling trip. We will be taking extra breaks during the day.
Get plenty of rest the day before as these are strenuous days.
We will provide all the adelgid-destroying equipment in dry bags to load into our boats.

Please RSVP as soon as possible to Thom Green with HRI at info@savehemlocksnc.org and complete the sign-up form. He will be the primary contact for questions and send updates if plans change.
To learn more about the PHHAT team, visit paddlersforhemlocks.com.
Note: Treatments are based on the rigorous science of using imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid, to control woolly adelgid. We use a pelletized formulation of imidacloprid called Coretect™. Every tree is given a prescribed dose based on tree size using a dosage rate shown to only affect adelgids on that tree. The prescribed dose is inserted into the soil surrounding the tree. Surrounding trees and flowering plants are not affected. Utmost care is exercised to protect the applicators (you).

Green Drinks in Hendersonville, NC: The French Broad Paddle Trail & Henderson County
2024-05-09 17:30 - 19:00 | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
Come learn about the history, present condition, and opportunities for growth facing the French Broad Paddle Trail in Henderson County and abroad. Placed in the context of challenges from proposed dams, degraded water quality, and short-sighted growth, the French Broad River is an ongoing success story due to the work of passionate local communities, well-organized advocacy campaigns, and strong partnerships between non-profits, government agencies, and local businesses.
The French Broad Paddle Trail focuses on recreational access, stewardship, and information along the river, led by MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper program, and this presentation will give an overview of the Trail in general, share updates on specific projects occurring here in Henderson County, and inform attendees on how they can get involved and support this work.
Jack Henderson is MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager. In this role, he helps create, maintain, and improve public river access points, campsites, signage, and information; removes garbage; manages woody debris; and hosts events focused on celebrating and learning about the river. Jack has degrees in geography and recreation management from Appalachian State University, and has worked for several non-profits focused on conservation and recreation here in Western North Carolina and elsewhere around the United States, since 2010. Jack loves human-powered recreation, with a special affinity for remote rivers and rocky trails. He can often be found where there is greenery and gradient.
5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.
6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn more about current environmental issues, have relevant discussions, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks; just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

Lake Adger Celebration in Mill Spring, NC
2024-05-11 12:00 - 16:00 | Lake Adger Celebration, 4741 Lake Adger Rd, Mill Spring, NC, 28756
The community is invited to attend the Lake Adger Celebration, a free, family-friendly event. Come on out and celebrate the lake! The Celebration will be fun for the whole family with guided kayak tours, fishing demonstrations, guided bird walks, activities for kids, and more!
Organizations and presenters at the event include: Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue, Polk County Parks and Recreation, the Muskie Club, Foothills Humane Society, Polk County Library, Pisgah Chapter Trout Unlimited, Blue Ridge Audubon, Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE), and more!
This event is offered in partnership with Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue, and Polk County Parks and Recreation, and hosted by the Lake Adger Property Owners Association, Inc.
*If you have a life jacket for your kids (or yourselves), please bring them, as there will be limited quantities of life jackets available.

Headwaters Outfitters' Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up Day in Rosman, NC
2024-05-18 09:00 - 15:00 | Headwater Outfitters Outdoor Adventures, 25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC, 28772
Join French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, Jack Henderson, as he participates in Headwaters Outfitters’ Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-up Day.
This is not a MountainTrue-hosted event. Headwaters Outfitters supports MountainTrue, and we would love to help them in return.
Event info:
The French Broad River Clean-Up remains the best volunteer gig in town! Since the inception of “The Upper French Broad River Clean Up Day” in 1992, the annual river clean-up has netted more than 3,500 garbage bags, 4,500 old tires, and roughly 15 additional tons of trash along the upper French Broad. Over 3,000 volunteers have participated in the event, many returning year after year.
Volunteers show up at Headwaters Outfitters at 9:00 am. Everyone will be assigned Headwaters Outfitters canoes (2 people max per canoe, no kayaks please), paddles, life jackets, and garbage bags. Participants should bring sturdy gloves, river shoes, and tools such as trash grabbers or long-handled barbecue tongs to grab trash with. It’s always a good idea to bring a change of clothing for afterwards! After a light complimentary sponsored breakfast, volunteers will hit the river to collect as much trash as they can. Volunteers need to have solid paddling skills, be team players, and be ready to get dirty and work hard. Headwaters Outfitters will provide transportation to and from the river for the start and end of the day. Once back at the shop, a sponsored lunch will be provided thanks to generous donations from community members and businesses.
All volunteers must pre-register via Eventbrite to secure your spot. Space is limited.
Contact Danielle for more information or questions regarding this event at danielle@headwatersoutfitters.com

5Point Adventure Film Screening benefiting MountainTrue in Etowah, NC
2024-05-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Etowah’s Lion Club, 447 Etowah School Rd, Hendersonville Rd., NC, 28739
MountainTrue is excited to announce the 5 Point Film Festival presented by Mosaic Realty!
Join us at the Etowah Lions Club on Tuesday, May 21st for an evening of fun, adventure, and community.
Doors open at 7 pm, and the show starts at 7:30. Come early to get a seat, pick up some MountainTrue merchandise and chat with MountainTrue staff.
**Members of MountainTrue receive a discounted ticket price. Not a member of MountainTrue? Join now!
**Ticket purchases are non-refundable (but rest assured, your ticket sales go to fund the work of MountainTrue).
About 5Point Film
OUR MISSION is to build community and inspire change by showcasing and celebrating impactful stories of adventure. We are dedicated to uplifting diverse storytellers and stories that allow us to better understand the world around us.
Film line-up (subject to minor changes):

JACKSON GOLDSTONE – SOLO (3 mins)
DIRECTOR: SCOTT SECCO
PRODUCERS: SEB KEMP, DANIEL GILLOOLEY
(CANADA, 3 MIN)
When he’s not turning heads trackside, Jackson Goldstone will be found turning trails into his own personal playground. While his 9 to 5 is piloting his Syndicate V10 downhill bike down heinous tracks in pursuit of podium glory, he absolutely loves to get out on his local trails with his daily driver and have some fun.ABOVE THE NOISE (6 mins)
DIRECTOR: ADAM DE SILVA
PRODUCER: EXPLORE IMPOSSIBLE
(UNITED KINGDOM, 6 MIN)
Above The Noise is a documentary short that explores how athlete Maja Kuczynska uses the sport of skydiving to escape the chaos of the modern world.CANYON CHORUS (17 mins)
DIRECTOR: CHRIS CRESCI
PRODUCER: DAVIS LOVE
(USA, 17 MIN)
Set against the backdrop of Desolation Canyon, UT, Mikah Meyer, a world-record traveler and LGBTQ+ advocate, reflects with three close friends and his mentor, Larry Edwards, on their stories and the power of mentorship within the queer community.SOUNDSCAPE 14
DIRECTOR: TIMMY O’NEILL
(USA, 15 MIN)
Soundscape features Erik Weihenmayer, a global adventure athlete and author who is completely blind, as he ascends a massive alpine rock face deep in the Sierra Nevada. Using expert camera work from Mikey Schaefer and emotive, novel animation to bring to life a concept by adaptive climbing pioneer Timmy O’Neill, the film is a surprising and soulful adventure.ELLADJ (6 mins)
DIRECTOR: MIKE SCHWARTZ
(CANADA, 6 MIN)
Elladj follows the remarkable journey of Elladj Balde, a Canadian figure skater who found his voice and fan base through wild ice-skating. The film centers on the transformative power of embracing one’s passion over measurable results.
**INTERMISSION**

SLIDES ON THE MOUNTAIN (30 mins)
DIRECTOR: SETH GILLIS
PRODUCERS: SANDY WARD, ALINE MAYERHOFFER
(CANADA, 30 MIN)
Two brothers from the Lil’wat Nation, Ricky and Talon, set out to ski Ts’zil (Slides On The Mountain) but face a steep learning curve before they can make their historic attempt.
FALL HARVEST (3 mins)
DIRECTOR: KEENAN DESPLANQUES
(USA, 2 MIN)
In 2023, Nicholi Rogatkin had a season-ending injury and was forced to sit out for the summer. Fall Harvest highlights the magic of getting back on a bike again after an injury.

STRONG GRANDMA (15 mins)
DIRECTORS: CECILIA BROWN, WINSLOW CRANE-MURDOCH
PRODUCER: CECILIA BROWN
(USA, 15 MIN)
95 year old Catherine Kuehn is a world record winning deadlifter. As she prepares for her last competition she reflects on the love, and the loss, that brought her to this moment.
WATCH THE TRAILER!
A HUGE Thank you to our Event Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsors: Mosaic Realty Agents: Caley Bowman and Rika Taylor

Supporting Sponsors: Altura Architects, Youngblood Bicycles and Second Gear.

2024 MountainTrue Nolichucky BioBlitz in Erwin, TN
2024-06-01 09:00 - 16:30 | USA Raft, 2 Jones Branch Road, Erwin, TN, 37650
SAVE THE DATE! Each year, MountainTrue hosts a BioBlitz to record all the species we can find in a given area. We identify and catalog organisms using the online app iNaturalist. The BioBiltz this year will be on June 1st in Erwin, TN. There will be two options: a water-based adventure with a fee AND a land-based adventure that is FREE. Read on below for more information.
Come soak up the beauty of the Nolichucky River in Erwin, TN as we collect data to help support a Wild & Scenic Designation for this special place. This year’s BioBlitz will be based out of the USA Raft Adventure Resort. https://www.usaraft.com/
USA Raft has generously donated their facilities plus six guided rafts to take biophiles of all types down the Nolichucky Gorge, the deepest gorge in the Eastern U.S. and one of the best whitewater runs in the Appalachians. For just $120, you can have a full day adventure with lunch provided in a guided raft surrounded by experts in birds, vascular and nonvascular plants, insects, mammals, mushrooms and more. Rafts will stop at biological hotspots in the seldom explored Nolichucky Gorge. Participants may see rarities like hellbenders, piratebush, Virginia spirea, bleeding heart, ospreys, and eagles.
For land lovers, other groups will hike with experts in salamanders, mammals, plants, and mushrooms. One of our land based groups will spend the morning hiking and the afternoon snorkeling in the river, weather permitting. There is no ticket fee for the land-based BioBlitz. (No lunch is provided for land adventurers).*Group sign-ups are taken at the event and are first come, first serve. Group availability is subject to change.
Be sure to bring camp chairs and a change of dry clothes to share stories around the campfire from 4:30 p.m. on. Food and drink are available on site from the Take-out tavern, and there is usually live music on Saturday afternoons.
**Kids 10 years and older are welcome to join the water-based day if they are accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of the trip.**Kids aged 6 and up are welcome to join the land-based day if they are accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of the trip.
Meet-up location for both water-based and land-based events: USA Raft in Erwin, TN at 9 am with our investigating and documenting wrapping up around 4:30 pm.

Register:
Registration for the Water-based BioBlitz is now closed. Please contact amy@mountaintrue.org with any questions.

Register for Land-based BioBlitz!

Headwaters Fun Float near Lawndale, NC
2024-06-08 10:00 - 15:00 | NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch, 4933 Casar Road, Polkville, NC, 28136
We are heading up to the South Mountain foothills for a fun paddle on the cool, shady waters of the First Broad River. 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. The water is likely to be pretty shallow and “bony”, that is, we will be scraping and dragging over quite a few rocks and gravel beds.
Meet up at the brand new NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch (NC 10 PFA, 4933 Casar Road) at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload boats and gear, then take all of the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling.
Please bring:

your boat
paddle
lifejacket (PFD)
water
lunch
sunscreen
sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops)
towel
dry change of clothes

We have a limited number of boat rentals available for an add-on fee (4 available) so reserve your spot early.
**If you are renting a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
For safety reasons, this event is limited to participants aged 18 and older.
The rain date for this event will be June 22nd so please hold both days on your calendar.

Pint night at Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Mills River, NC Benefiting MountainTrue
2024-06-11 17:00 - 20:00 | AMB Mills River, 46 N Mills River Road, Mills River, NC, 28759
Stop by Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB) in Mills River to chat with MountainTrue staff, pick up some MountainTrue merch and grab a cold beverage! $1 of all beer pours on June 11th will benefit MountainTrue.
Can’t make it on June 11th? You have all of June to support AMB and MountainTrue! MountainTrue is proud to be AMB’s featured nonprofit for the month of June. $1 of all Czech One, Two pours during June will go to benefit MountainTrue.
We appreciate the partnership between Appalachian MountainBrewery and our High Country Office, and are excited to build on that relationship in the Southern Region at their new Mills River location. Come on out to say hi and help us support our supporters!

Green Drinks in Hendersonville, NC: Why should environmentalists support building more housing?
2024-06-13 17:30 - 19:00 | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
We know that healthy communities exist within the context of a healthy environment — and right now, both are threatened. There is a housing shortage across the country, with many hard-working families unable to find a place to live. There is also a climate crisis, with greenhouse gas emissions threatening the stability of all our planet’s ecosystems and biodiversity.
Join us to learn more about MountainTrue’s newest program, Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC, and about part of the solution to both these crises. Susan Bean is the Housing & Transportation Director for MountainTrue and the program director for Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC; she informs organizational policy priorities for housing and transportation projects across Western North Carolina.
Susan earned her Masters in Public Administration from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where she led wilderness expeditions as a graduate assistant for the university’s outdoor program. She is actively involved in the community, serving as a member of the Planning & Zoning Commission for the City of Asheville and a facilitator for Building Bridges.
5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.
6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn more about current environmental issues, have relevant discussions, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks; just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

Green Drinks in Hendersonville, NC: Creating Farm Resilience Against Extreme Weather Events
2024-07-11 17:30 - 19:00 | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
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 conducting a Farm Weather Impact Survey with the help of their newest AmeriCorps Member, Olivia Gray. The survey aims to better understand how extreme weather events affect agricultural production in the Southern Blue Ridge. The information we receive will help guide MountainTrue in tailoring support initiatives, advocating for vital resources, and implementing strategies to support farm resiliency in Western North Carolina. Join Olivia Gray and her project supervisor Erica Shanks for this presentation on the importance of local agriculture and our survey findings so far.
Olivia Gray grew up camping and hiking and has always had an affinity for nature. She graduated from the State University of New York at Binghamton with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies and Economics. Upon graduating, she landed her first AmeriCorps position with the University of Hawai’i Maui College, where she focused on campus and county-wide food security efforts. Olivia is excited to be applying her knowledge of food systems to her work at MountainTrue as their Climate Action Corps AmeriCorps Member.
Erica is a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in Spanish and Broadcast Journalism and two reputable leadership programs. She also holds a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University. For the past 10 years, Erica has worked in the agricultural field supporting new and beginning farmers, managing farmer’s markets, running her own small farm business, and advocating for the protection of farmland for future beginning farmers. Erica is your Green Riverkeeper and is passionate about hiking, backpacking, learning about new plants and mushrooms, anything on the water, and local food!
5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.
6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn about current environmental issues, discuss relevant, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks; just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

6th Annual Broad River Race Day and Fun Float in Mooresboro, NC
2024-07-20 13:00 - 16:30 | Lake Houser Put In, NC
Join us for the 6th annual Broad River Race Day! We welcome folks to race at their own pace and enjoy these 5 miles on the most beautiful stretch of the Broad River. Remember, the hare may not always outrun the tortoise!
This race only has two rules: – You MUST wear a PFD. – No motors allowed
Paddle solo, tandem, or with as many people as will fit in your boat. We will meet at the Lake Houser put in at 1:00 sharp to drop off boats. As you come down Lake Houser Road, bear off to the right onto the single-lane paved road into Lake Houser Adventures. Just before the Lake Houser swimming pool, take a right onto a dirt road and pass through the gates to the ATV park. Parking and the put-in are straight ahead on the river’s shore, where we will drop off boats. From there, we will take vehicles to the Broad River Greenway.
Meet-up coordinates: 35.220426, -81.731488
There is a $5 parking fee at Lake Houser and Greenway. Betsy the Turtle drops, and the race begins at 2:00 pm. And we’re off to paddle or float at your own pace. The first person, or first team, across the finish line, wins a MountainTrue gift bag and takes possession of the Turtle until next year’s race.
Youth with paddling experience are welcome on this trip. A parent or guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18 for the entire duration of the outing.
We do have up to 4 boats available for rent. If you rent a boat, please call David @ 704-300-5069 to confirm the PFD (life jacket) size.
The rain date for this event will be August 3rd. Please hold both dates on your calendar.

MountainTrue Summer Clean on the Green in Saluda, NC 7/27
2024-07-27 11:00 - 17:00 | Fishtop Access, 2302 Green River Cove, Saluda, North Carolina, 28773
Join MountainTrue’s Green Riverkeeper for a day of cleaning the Green!
We’ll meet at the Fishtop Access at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 27th and set shuttle to clean the lower Green!
Bring your: boat, paddling gear (including life jacket), snacks/lunch, water, sunscreen, any necessary medical supplies you may need, and be prepared to get dirty and wet.
*Roadside clean-up is also an option for folks who do not want to get on the water!
This is not a guided adventure but a volunteer clean-up event. Please make sure you are comfortable on the section of river you are cleaning on as there will not be a “guide” specifically leading you down the river.
Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian for the entire duration of the clean-up.
MountainTrue has a limited number of duckies and gear if needed, but you must register in advance.
Join us after the clean-up at The SPOT (101 E. Main Street, Saluda, NC 28773) in downtown Saluda for tacos and drinks! MountainTrue will not be covering the cost of food, but we will gather to continue the fun off the river!

Green Drinks: Restoration Projects Along the French Broad River
2024-08-08 17:30 - 19:00 | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
Join us for an update on Conserving Carolina’s restoration projects along the French Broad River from Conserving Carolina’s Natural Resources Manager, David Lee! David lived most of his life in Florida, but he spent many vacations camping, hiking, and enjoying nature in the southern Appalachians. These experiences instilled in him a sense of appreciation for the environment that led to a strong commitment to conserve it.
After earning a BS in Environmental Science from the University of West Florida, David relocated to Asheville where he worked as a Bog Steward for The Nature Conservancy. He then served two consecutive terms with AmeriCorps Project Conserve with Conserving Carolina’s Weed Action Coalition of the Hickory Nut Gorge (WAC-HNG) where he preserved the natural habitats and scenic beauty of the Gorge through management of non-native invasive plants. He joined the staff in 2014 where he works to keep our protected lands healthy, which means a good deal of non-native, invasive species management.
5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.
6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn about current environmental issues, discuss relevant, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks; just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

Broad River Summer Sweep near Boiling Springs, NC 8/10
2024-08-10 10:00 - 15:00 | Lake Houser Put In, NC
Join the Broad Riverkeeper for a clean-up of the Broad River on one of the most popular and scenic sections, Lake Houser to Broad River Greenway, about 5 miles of river with some small class I-II rapids.
Please bring: your boat, paddle, lifejacket, water, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), gloves and trash bags, towel, and a dry change of clothes.
We may have a few boats available to borrow. Please email david@mountaintrue.org to check availability.
Due to the rapids on this stretch of the river, participants must be 18 and over and comfortable paddling to participate.
The RAIN DATE for this event is August 17th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar.
We appreciate you and the time you spend volunteering to protect the places we love and share. To show our gratitude, we’re offering MountainTrue volunteers a complimentary, one-year membership. To become a member of MountainTrue, simply email members@mountaintrue.org and request a complimentary membership. If you wish to donate to support our work, you can do so here. Thank you for all the work that you do to protect our environment!

This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation, and the Stories that Make Us VIRTUAL Book Discussion 8/15
2024-08-15 19:00 - 20:30 | North Carolina
This summer, we invite you to join MountainTrue’s Creation Care Alliance Program in reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation, and the Stories that Make Us by the founder of Black Liturgies, Cole Arthur Riley. We will read at our own pace, taking time with each chapter and idea.
On Thursday, August 15th, we will gather virtually via Zoom to discuss our learnings, questions, and how this book influenced us–as well as spend some quality time together.
An in-person discussion in the Asheville area is scheduled for Sunday, August 11th, so if you would rather join us physically, please register for the in person event here.
Do yourself a favor and get yourself a copy of this book. We can’t wait to discuss it with you and spend some sweet time in fellowship!

5th Annual Virtual Broad River Fishing Tournament
2024-08-24 00:00 - 2024-09-02 23:59 | virtual
Want to register for the 5th Annual Virtual Broad River Fishing Tournament? Go on your own or with your friends to your favorite locations on the Broad River or any tributary. You can fish one day or all week long! The Bass Shack and The Depot Cafe in Lattimore are sponsoring the event this year and offering prizes for Broad’s Best Angler, Biggest Bass, Biggest Panfish, and Biggest Catfish.
Recognition as the “Broad’s Best Angler” will be given to the fisherperson with the highest combined total length of their three biggest fish. We will also recognize winners for catching the biggest bass, biggest catfish, biggest panfish (bream or crappie), and most unusual fish.
Here’s how it works. When you catch a “nice one”, take a photo of the fish lying on a fish ruler and send it via e-mail to david@mountaintrue.org. We will tally up the fish measurements after Labor Day, the last day of the tournament, and announce winners that week.
Happy Fishing!
Photo: David Englehardt: Broads Best Angler 2023

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.

9th Annual Sarah Sweep and First Broad River Festival near Lawndale, NC
2024-09-07 10:00 - 21:00 | Double Shoals Mill, 199 Old Mill Rd., Shelby, NC, 28150, United States
All are welcome to join us on this lovely section of the river that Sarah Spencer held dear to her heart. While paddling the shallow, shaded, cool waters between rock cliffs and rhododendrons, Sarah would always stop to pick up any litter along the way. Sarah, Beejay, Billy, and Davey died tragically in 2016 in a car accident. This event is in remembrance and honor of these friends and their love for our river.
Meet us behind Double Shoals Mill at 10:00 am on Saturday, September 7th (35.381188, -81.544954). We will drop our boats there beside the river and take vehicles down to Zion Church Rd., then catch a shuttle back to the mill to begin.
Please remember to bring: your boat, paddle, lifejacket, water, lunch, sunscreen, gloves, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), and a dry change of clothes. We have some extra kayaks available only if you reserve them in advance.
After the clean up we will head back to the Double Shoals Mill for an evening of fabulous local music and food at the First Broad River Festival. We hope you will stay and join us. More details will be sent out to participants who register below.
Volunteers and kids under the age of 8 eat FREE. If you are not volunteering but want to join for music and food, you can purchase a ticket for $20.

Anyone under the age of 18 who is comfortable paddling is welcome to volunteer if a parent or guardian accompanies them for the entire duration of the outing.
The rain date for this sweep and festival will be September 21st!
