MountainTrue

Winter Bird Watch around Lake Chatuge near Hayesville, NC 3/9/2024-CANCELED DUE to WEATHER
2024-03-09 07:30 - 09:30 (America/New_York) | Chatuge Dam, 1407 Chatuge Dam Rd, Hayesville, NC, 28904, United States
There is a 90% chance of rain on Saturday, March 9th so we must cancel this event. We hope to reschedule this at a later date.
MountainTrue is hosting the 18th Annual Winter Bird Watch outing around Lake Chatuge! Participants will meet at Chatuge Dam and carpool/caravan to various sites around the lake. Typically 18-25 different species of birds are observed on the outing, ranging from small songbirds to larger birds of prey and wintering waterfowl associated with more northern climes (like loons!).
Retired Young Harris College professor and former Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition board member Brenda Hull will again lead the outing. A spotting scope is provided for up-close views, but participants should still bring binoculars and a favorite bird identification guide, if they have them.
Kids ages 8 & up are welcome but anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
What to bring:
Binoculars and bird guides if you have them
Water and snacks if desired
Warm layers (there is usually a breeze by the lake).
**As much as we love our furry friends, pets are not permitted on this outing.
Join us to learn more about our feathered winter visitors!

Additional Resources for your reference:
Birdwatching for Beginners: How to Start Birding

https://www.audubon.org/birding/how-to-start-birding

Live Staking Workday at Island Park in Bryson City
2024-03-20 13:00 - 16:00 | Bryson City Island Park, 213 Bryson St, Bryson City, NC, 28713, United States
Come out to help with planting 1500 native live stakes this dormant season at Bryson City Island Park. MountainTrue West will be holding this community volunteer workday on March 20th to install various species of live stakes for bank stabilization, wildlife habitat, and beautification as the next step in the Island Park Bank Restoration Project. Gloves are provided but you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.
Please bring:
Closed toed shoes
Warm layers (recommended)
Water and snacks
The workday will be held on Wednesday, March 20th from 1-4pm. In case of rainy weather, we will have the workday on Thursday, March 28th, instead.
Contact western region program associate Eve Davis with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

World Water Day 2024 with MountainTrue's Clean Water Teams
2024-03-22 - 2024-03-25 | NC
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!

Community Invasive Plant Workday on Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee, NC Series 2024
2024-04-12 13:00 - 16:00 | Jackson County Greenway Loop, MONTEITH GAP Rd, Cullowhee, NC 28723
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitat at the Jackson County Greenway. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese privet and Multiflora rose then treating the stumps.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please, no pets.
Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water and snacks
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and natural beauty of the Greenway!!
Contact western region program associate Eve Davis with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

Happy Hour with MountainTrue at Innovation Station in Dillsboro, NC
2024-04-12 16:00 - 17:00 | Innovation Station, 40 Depot St, Dillsboro, NC, 28725
Join MountainTrue at Innovation Station in Dillsboro at 4:00 on Friday, April 12th for a “happy hour” social gathering to celebrate our habitat restoration work on the Greenway. Volunteers who participated in any of the workdays will receive a free beverage between 4-5 pm as a thank you!
Although we love our volunteers, anyone interested in learning more about MountainTrue is welcome and we hope to see you there.
Afterward, stay at the Station from 5-7 pm to learn more about trails, trail work, and sustainable recreation with Friends of Panthertown. Get details and RSVP for their event here: https://panthertown.org/events/.

Earth Day Kid's Merchandise Design Contest
2024-04-22 08:00 - 2024-05-31 23:59 | NC
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).

5Point Adventure Film Screening benefiting MountainTrue in Brasstown, NC-CANCELED
2024-05-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Kula Wellness Center, 136 Emily Ln, Brasstown, NC, 28902
We regret to announce that this event has been canceled. Please keep an eye on our e-newsletter for future film screenings later this year. If you feel up to an adventure, tickets are still for sale for the Asheville, NC showing on Tuesday, May 21st.
MountainTrue is excited to announce the 5 Point Film Festival presented by Mosaic Realty!
Join us at Kula Wellness Center on Tuesday, May 21st for an evening of fun, adventure and community. Beer and wine will be available for purchase and we will have simple movie snacks.
Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the show starts at 7:30. Come early to get a seat, grab your refreshments 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!

This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation, and the Stories that Make Us VIRTUAL Book Discussion 8/15
2024-08-15 19:00 - 20:30 | NC
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!

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.

2024 Fall ONLINE Native Tree & Shrub Sale with pick-up in MURPHY, NC: Orders now being accepted!
2024-10-01 - 2024-11-10 | MountainTrue Western Regional Office, 90 Tennessee Street, Murphy, NC, 28906, United States
Orders are now being accepted for the Western Region Native Tree & Shrub Sale with pickup in Murphy, NC! In order to raise awareness about the beautiful, resilient plants that are native to our Southern Appalachian Mountains and to provide a little funding for our ongoing invasive plant eradication efforts, we are again holding a Native Tree and Shrub Sale this fall. Choose from 21 species of native trees and shrubs, ranging from large shade trees, native ornamentals, pollinator species, and those particularly beneficial to wildlife.
**Your order must be picked up in Murphy, NC on Thursday, November 21st between 3 and 6 pm unless, due to exceptional circumstances, other arrangements are made PRIOR to placing the order.**
All plants are quality local nursery stock.
2024 tree & shrub species list / 2024 tree & shrub species descriptions
Orders will be accepted through 11:59 pm November 10th, while supplies last. You must pay for the order at the time you submit it in order to secure your species and size of choice. Then, pick up your order from the MountainTrue Western Regional Office parking lot in downtown Murphy on Thursday, November 21st between 3 and 6 pm.
**Please note: several of these plants and shrubs may be “dormant” or cut back. This is normal and not a cause for concern. Here is an article explaining dormancy in plants.
Plants that are found here inspire a “sense of place” and pride in our mountain communities and promote wise stewardship and conservation of natural resources. For questions related to these or other native and invasive plant species, contact program coordinator, Tony Ward at tony@mountaintrue.org.

**CANCELED** Whitewater River Hike in Cashiers, NC
2024-10-05 10:00 - 16:00 | Forest Service Road 88, 35°02'30.1"N 83°03'46.2"W
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 5.
Visit the Whitewater Special Interest Area which is renowned for it’s unique flora and wildlife. The Forest Service attempted to log 15 acres of the Special Interest Area as part of the Southside Project but MountainTrue and our partners took legal action and won.
The hike will be 4-6 miles and will follow a gated Forest Service road for most of the length. The last portion of the hike will be on steep, uneven ground with no trail. The hike will proceed unless heavy rains or wind are in the forecast.
*Children are welcome if they can hike up to 6 miles without assistance. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing. Well behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the hike.
Please remember to:
-Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants.
-Bring water, lunch, snacks and any medications you may need
Carpooling details will be sent when you register but there will be carpools from Asheville and Cashiers, NC.

**CANCELED** Public Lands Program Meet & Greet in Cashiers, NC
2024-10-05 16:00 - 18:00 | Whiteside Brewing Company, 128 NC Hwy 107, Cashiers, NC, 28717, United States
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 5.
Come meet our Resilient Forests Program staff, including new Public Lands Engagement Manager, Kathryn Stahl! Enjoy a beverage courtesy of MountainTrue and learn more about our work.

Invasive Plant Workday at Pinnacle Park in Sylva, NC Fall Series 2024
2024-10-23 13:00 - 2024-11-06 16:00 | NC
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust and the Pinnacle Park Foundation, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitat at the Pinnacle Park in Sylva. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese privet, Autumn Olive, and Burning Bush then treating the stumps.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please leave pets at home.
Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water
Medications you may need
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and natural beauty of Pinnacle Park!!
Contact western region program associate Eve Davis with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

2024 Lake Chatuge Shoreline Cleanup-14th Annual near Hiawassee, GA
2024-11-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Towns County Swim Beach Pavillion, US-76, Hiawassee, GA, 30546
Join with other lake-loving volunteers on Saturday, November 2nd for MountainTrue’s 14th Annual Lake Chatuge Shoreline Cleanup. The event will kick off at 9 am at the Towns County Swim Beach Pavilion across from the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds where volunteers will get their assigned cleanup locations and be given bags, gloves, and safety information. Coffee and grab-n-go breakfast snacks will be available, along with free t-shirts for the first 30 volunteers. After two hours of shoreline cleaning at the assigned site, volunteers will meet back at the pavilion at 11:30 for prizes. Three prizes will be given on the day of the cleanup: Most Trash Collected by a Group, Most Creative Trash Photo, and Most Unique Trash Item Found. Enter to win by taking photos and sending them to callie@mountaintrue.org.
What to bring:
Closed toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty
Water
Sun protection
Trash grabber, if you have one

Other Reminders:
While we love our furry friends, please, no pets. This will be a rain or shine event.

Pickup Event for Western Region Fall Native Tree & Shrub Sale in Murphy, NC (only for those that purchased through our MURPHY, NC ONLINE Plant Sale that ended Oct. 31st)
2024-11-21 15:00 - 18:00 | MountainTrue Western Regional Office, 90 Tennessee Street, Murphy, NC, 28906, United States
This is the pick up event for plants that are pre-ordered and paid for through our western region Fall Native Tree & Shrub Sale fundraiser. The plants are delivered by the nurseries to the MountainTrue Western Regional Office parking lot on the morning of the event, so no early pick-up is available. We will not be ready to fill orders until 3:00 pm sharp! If you arrive early, please find a parking place. Do not form a line in your cars that will quickly prevent others from entering the parking lot.
What to expect: Your plants are entering dormancy this month, which is a kind of “hibernation” for the winter. Don’t be surprised if they have no leaves at all! It’s perfectly natural, as this is the time of year that deciduous trees lose their leaves. Also, some of the 3-gallon trees will be 8-10′ (feet) tall. We’ve folded them into a Prius before, but it’s not easy!
If you cannot make it on Thursday, November 21st and there’s no one else who can pick up your order for you, please contact us as soon as possible either by emailing tony@mountaintrue.org or calling 828-837-5414. We do not want to move your plants around unnecessarily!
This event will be held rain or shine!

MountainTrue co-hosting Trivia @ Innovation Brewing, Sylva NC 11/25
2024-11-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Innovation Brewing, 414 W Main Street, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779
MountainTrue is co-hosting Monday Night Trivia at Innovation Brewing in Sylva, NC!
Join Kate, MountainTrue’s Americorps member, for a fun evening of craft beverages and friendly competition! Test your MountainTrue knowledge with a chance to win Innovation Brewing gift cards and MountainTrue merchandise.
When: 7:00pm (arrive early to sign-up )
Where: Innovation Brewing 414 W Main Street, Sylva NC
See you there!

Community Invasive Plant Workday on Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee, NC Fall Series 2024
2024-12-06 13:00 - 16:00 | NC
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitat at the Jackson County Greenway. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese privet and Multiflora rose then treating the stumps.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please, no pets. Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water and snacks
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and natural beauty of the Greenway!!
Contact western region program associate Kate Bridgers with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

Community Invasive Plant Workday at Pinnacle Park, Sylva NC 12/11
2024-12-11 13:00 - 16:00 | Pinnacle Park, FISHERS CREEK RD, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust and the Pinnacle Park Foundation, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitat at the Pinnacle Park in Sylva. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese privet, Autumn Olive, and Burning Bush then treating the stumps.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please leave pets at home.
Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water
Medications you may need
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and natural beauty of Pinnacle Park!!
Contact western region program associate Kate Bridgers with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

First Day Hike to the Wesser Bald Fire Tower via the Appalachian Trail near Nantahala, NC
2025-01-01 13:00 - 15:00 | Tellico Gap Trailhead Parking, Aquone, NC, 28781
Join Western Regional Director Callie Moore for a winter hike on the first day of the new year! This 2.3-mile loop is considered moderately challenging; however, avid hikers would likely consider it easy. There are 748 feet of elevation gain over the first 1.3 miles and then descending the same amount over the last mile of the hike. At the top, we’ll have a stunning 360-degree view across Nantahala National Forest from the platform of a historic fire tower.
Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leash.
Meet-up location:
Tellico Gap Trailhead Parking, Aquone, NC 28781 35.2770536,-83.5876857
Please bring (if desired): Water, Hiking Stick/Pole, Warm layers, Close-toed shoes, Sunscreen

Invasive Plant Removal Workday at Little Tennessee Greenway, Franklin, NC 1/18
2025-01-18 13:00 - 16:00 | 803 Ulco drive, TASSEE SHELTER 803 Ulco Drive, Franklin, North Carolina, 28734
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust and the Friends of the Greenway (FROGs), is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitats at the Little Tennessee Greenway in Franklin, NC.
We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive plants like Chinese privet, Autumn Olive, Kudzu and Multiflora Rose.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please leave pets at home.
Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water
Medications you may need
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and native plant heath of the Little Tennessee Greenway!
Contact western region program associate Kate Bridgers with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).
RAIN DATE: JAN 25th

Community Invasive Plant Workday at Pinnacle Park | Sylva, NC | 2/7
2025-02-07 13:00 - 16:00 | Pinnacle Park, FISHERS CREEK RD, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779

Winter Tree ID Hike at the Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee, NC
2025-02-08 13:00 - 16:00 | Jackson County Greenway, 342 Old Cullowhee Rd, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779
Learn how to identify trees in the winter with Western Region Program Coordinator, Tony Ward. The Jackson County Greenway offers a paved, relatively flat walk and features a wide diversity of native trees perfect for identification! During this walk in the woods along the Tuckasegee River, we will discuss the different ways that you can identify trees in your area. This hike is open to all skill levels of tree identifiers. Registration is required.
Although we love our furry friends, please no pets on this outing.
In the event of inclement weather, this outing will be held on Saturday, February 15th at 1pm.

Valentine's Day Invasive Plant Workday at Jackson County Greenway, Cullowhee NC 2/14
2025-02-14 13:00 - 16:00 | Jackson County Greenway, 342 Old Cullowhee Rd, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust, is hosting a Valentine’s Day volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitat at the Jackson County Greenway. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese privet and Multiflora rose then treating the stumps.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please, no pets.
Please bring:

Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water and snacks
Any medication you might need
Your valentine (optional but encouraged <3)

Spread love, not invasive species!
Contact western region program associate Kate Bridgers with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

Winter Bird Watch on Lake Chatuge near Hayesville, NC
2025-02-15 08:00 - 10:00 | Chatuge Dam, 1407 Chatuge Dam Rd, Hayesville, NC 28904, 1407 Chatuge Dam Rd,, Hayesville, NC, 28904
Join other MountainTrue folks in our 17th annual caravan around the Lake Chatuge shoreline to view a wide variety of birds. Typically, 18-25 different species are observed on the outing, ranging from small songbirds to larger birds of prey and wintering waterfowl typically associated with more northern climes (e.g. loons!). Retired Young Harris College professor and MountainTrue member, Brenda Hull will lead the bird watch again this year. A spotting scope is provided for up-close views, but participants should still bring binoculars and a favorite bird identification guide, if they have them. Please leave pets at home for this outing.
Registration is required.
In the event of inclement weather, this outing will be held on Saturday, February 22nd.

Community Invasive Plant Workday on the River Walk in Murphy, NC 2/22
2025-02-22 13:00 - 16:00 | Historic L&N Depot, 4 Railroad St, Murphy, NC 28906, Historic L&N Depot, 4 Railroad St., Murphy, NC, 28906
MountainTrue, in coordination with Heritage Partners and the Town of Murphy, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitats along the Murphy River Walk & Canoe Trail.
We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive plants like Chinese privet, Autumn olive, kudzu and multiflora rose. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Advance registration is required. The rain date for this event is Saturday, March 1.

Please bring:

Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts (recommended)
Water (and snacks)
Medications you may need

Please leave pets at home.

Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and native plant health along the Hiwassee River! Contact western region program coordinator, Tony Ward with any questions: tony@mountaintrue.org.

2025 Watershed Gala in Young Harris, GA 2/28
2025-02-28 17:30 - 20:00 | Charles Suber Banquet Hall, Young Harris College, Young Harris, GA, 30582
The Watershed Gala is an upscale social gathering that celebrates good water quality still being measured in many rivers, lakes, and streams and recognizes those who work to sustain it. This year’s event will feature a menu of heavy hors d’oeuvres, along with wine, beer, sodas, and water.
An in-person silent auction will be held throughout the event with beautiful art and craft items made right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as unique opportunities to relax, dine, and play!
After the presentation of the Holman Water Quality Stewardship Award, several select items will be auctioned live by local auctioneer and entertainer, Tim Ryan.
Ticketing information here:
There are three ticket options for this year’s event:

Ten reserved tables for eight guests are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $400/each. Purchase reserved tables here.
Individual table seats are available for $60/each. You will have a place at an unreserved table with eight other guests. Purchase table seats here.
Individual tickets without a table seat are available for $45/each. There will be high-top tables around the room to set a drink or a plate on. Purchase individual (no guaranteed seat) tickets here.

Join us for an evening of laughter, fun, and camaraderie and celebrating our 2025 Holman Water Quality Stewardship Award winner, John Strawn!
The deadline for purchasing tickets is Thursday, February 20th.
Full event information can be found here.
If you are interested in sponsoring the Watershed Gala, please contact callie@mountaintrue.org.

MountainTrue Invasive Plant workday in Blairsville, Georgia at Union County Farmers Market 3/8
2025-03-08 13:00 - 16:00 | 290 Farmers Mkt Wy, Blairsville, GA 30512, 290 Farmers Mkt Wy, Blairsville, GA, 30512
MountainTrue, in coordination with Union County Government, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitats along Butternut Creek, in preparation for more trail development and planting of native plants. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive plants like Chinese privet, Autumn olive, kudzu and multiflora rose. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training.
The RAIN DATE for this event is March 15, 2025. Please save both dates on your calendar.
Tools and gloves are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you would like.
Please bring:

Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water and snacks
Any medication you might need

While we love our furry friends, pets are not allowed at this workday. Anyone under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the event.
Pre-registration is required. Register here.
Contact Tony Ward with any questions about the event.

Community Invasive Plant Workday on Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee, NC 3/21
2025-03-21 13:00 - 16:00 | NC
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust, is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitat at the Jackson County Greenway. We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese privet and Multiflora rose then treating the stumps.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please, no pets.
RAIN DATE: MARCH 28th
Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water and snacks
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and natural beauty of the Greenway!!
Contact Western Region program associate Kate Bridgers with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).

Register Now!

Help Memorialize the old-growth forest at Brushy Mountain near Cashiers, NC 3/22-CANCELED
2025-03-22 10:00 - 16:00 | The Village Green Playground, 71 US-64, Cashiers, NC, 28717
The top of Brushy Mountain had a very old forest that MountainTrue unsuccessfully tried to protect from a logging project by Nantahala National Forest. The site was logged in the fall of 2024. We are seeking volunteers to help document the age of the trees by counting rings on cut stumps. This information will be compiled in a report that we will use to memorialize the forest and raise awareness of the value of old growth.
Children are welcome if they can hike 4 strenuous miles and are accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing. This is a strenuous hike. As much as we love our furry friends, pets are not allowed.
Meet-up location:
We will meet in Cashiers at the Village Green at 10 a.m. https://maps.app.goo.gl/hydHoEXYBMczpwt38 Then we will carpool to Brushy Mountain. We will be back to Cashiers by 4.
This event has regretfully been canceled.
Please bring: Water, Sturdy Hiking Shoes, Hiking Stick/Pole, Warm layers, Snacks/Lunch
