MountainTrue

Green Riverkeeper Launch at 11th Annual Spring Green Bash
2017-05-06 17:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Green River Adventures, 111 E. Main Street, Saluda, NC, 28773, United States
Join MountainTrue on Saturday, May 6 from 5:30-9 p.m. for the 11th Annual Spring Green Bash as we celebrate our new Green Riverkeeper! MountainTrue is pleased to announce that Gray Jernigan, MountainTrue’s Southern Regional Director, is now also the new Green Riverkeeper and will serve as a fundamental protector of the Green River watershed. MountainTrue’s Riverkeeper programs are key to our endeavors to monitor and protect the quality of our region’s waterways. Gray will be present to meet the community, and fifty percent of the ticket price for river, zipline, and rappelling trips booked for the day of the festival will be donated by Green River Adventures and The Gorge to help fund the work of the Green Riverkeeper.
Event Details:
What: 11th Annual Spring Green Bash
Who: presented by Green River Adventures and sponsored by Oskar Blues Brewery, Prestige Subaru, WNCW and Liquidlogic Kayaks. Music by the Honeycutters. A portion of proceeds benefit MountainTrue’s Green Riverkeeper.
Where: Green River Adventures, 111 E. Main Street, Saluda, NC
When: Saturday, May 6, 5:30-9 p.m.

“I’m thrilled to get such a warm welcome to the community from Green River Adventures and all the generous sponsors of the Green Spring Bash, including Oskar Blues, Prestige Subaru, WNCW and Liquidlogic Kayaks,” says Gray Jernigan, the Green Riverkeeper. “We have a lot of great activities and programs planned for the year ahead; I’m looking forward to meeting some folks and getting people involved in protecting the Green River.”
We hope to see you Saturday, May 6!
Book your trip for May 6 at greenriveradventures.com with the code: GREENRIVERKEEPER.
About MoutainTrue:
MountainTrue is Western North Carolina’s premier advocate for environmental stewardship. We are committed to keeping our mountain region a beautiful place to live, work and play. Our members protect our forests, clean up our rivers, plan vibrant and livable communities, and advocate for a sound and sustainable future for all residents of WNC. MountainTrue is home to the Broad River Alliance, French Broad Riverkeeper, Green Riverkeeper and Watauga Riverkeeper — the protectors and defenders of their respective watersheds. www.mountaintrue.org
About Waterkeeper Alliance:

Waterkeeper Alliance is a global movement uniting more than 300 Waterkeeper Organizations and Affiliates around the world, focusing citizen advocacy on issues that affect our waterways, from pollution to climate change. Waterkeepers patrol and protect over 2.5 million square miles of rivers, streams and coastlines in the Americas, Europe, Australia, Asia, and Africa. For more information please visit: www.waterkeeper.org

Hendersonville Green Drinks: The Issue of Food Waste
2017-05-11 17:30 - 19:30 | Black Bear Coffee, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
Join us on Thursday, May 11, as Hendersonville Green Drinks welcomes Kate Lis from Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy to speak on the issue of food waste components of our food system that can be altered to become more sustainable for all.
Kate Lis, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy’s AmeriCorps Stewardship Associate, was born and raised in central Massachusetts. She then moved to Boone, NC after high school where she realized an appetite for the great outdoors. Unsure of what to study, she decided to leave Boone as a freshman at Appalachian State University and live, work, and climb the wild Midwest of Wyoming and Colorado. There she studied a little graphic design and realized that commercialized art was not for her. In Colorado, Kate first experienced conservation work with long days on the Great Thompson River removing Russian olive trees. Recognizing her love for the more welcoming WNC Mountains, and overwhelmed by the greatness of the west, Kate returned to Boone with an interest in biology and finished her studies in Ecology, some biochemistry, and GIS. In the midst of her university education Kate worked in the outskirts of the Amazon in Ecuador for a cacao pollination study, volunteered for the Blue Ridge Parkway, and spent time in both the ASU Cliff Ecology and Plant-Insect Interactions labs helping in the field, rearing plants, genetic analysis, and chemistry work. In her service for CMLC, Kate helps with restoration projects and conservation efforts, and building bonds with nature and volunteers.
About Hendersonville Green Drinks
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by MountainTrue and the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. 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. Black Bear Coffee offers beer, wine, coffee drinks and sodas. A limited food menu will be available.

2017 Wild and Scenic Film Festival at Sierra Nevada
2017-05-11 19:00 - 22:00 | Sierra Nevada Mills River, 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Fletcher, NC, 28732, United States
Powered by Eventbrite

Equity in Planning: A MountainTrue program on the lasting impact of Urban Renewal policies
2017-05-13 09:00 - 12:00 | Dr. Wesley R. Grant Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston Street, Asheville, North Carolina, 28801
Image: Interaction Institute for Social Change | Artist: Angus Maguire. interactioninstitute.org and madewithangus.com.
Join MountainTrue on Saturday, May 13th from 9am-12pm as we explore the legacy of Urban Renewal policies, their impacts on Asheville’s communities of color, and the continuing tensions that threaten our community’s future.
With Asheville rated as one of the fastest gentrifying cities in the U.S., it is critically important that we make land use, planning and development choices thoughtfully and inclusively. This program will include a facilitated discussion at the Wesley Grant Center featuring guest speaker Sheneika Smith, founder of Date My City. After the discussion, the group will board a Gray Line Trolley for a custom tour led by Hood Huggers International’s DeWayne Barton and MountainTrue’s Co-Director Julie Mayfield.
As Asheville continues to grow, MountainTrue is committed to supporting neighborhoods and residents in planning and advocating for the success of their communities and advocating for sustainable, pedestrian friendly, and affordable neighborhoods. Join us for this timely conversation about both the history and future of development in Asheville.
Tickets for this event are $25 for current MountainTrue members and $40 for non-members, which includes a 2017 MountainTrue membership.
Click here to buy your tickets!

Richmond Hill Park Invasive Removal Day
2017-05-13 09:00 - 13:00 | Richmond Hill Park, 300 Richmond Hill Dr, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Join us and help restore native plant communities by controlling non-native invasive plants at Richmond Hill Park. This is the City of Asheville’s only forested park and is home to many special native plant and animal species! Volunteers help to stop the spread of harmful non-native invasive species and return native species to the unique park.
We’ll provide all gloves, equipment and necessary instructions. Please bring snacks, water and a rain jacket and wear long pants, long sleeve shirt and closed toe shoes (no open shoes or sandals allowed for safety).
Sign up now!

Second Annual Buff Mountain Bio Blitz
2017-06-03 08:00 - 17:00 | Hot Springs Community Center, 43 Andrews Ave N., Hot Springs, NC, 28743, United States

Energy Innovation Task Force Speaking at Sierra Club
2017-06-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, 1 Edwin Place, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
How We Can Prevent a 3rd Gas Powered Electric Plant by Duke Energy: An Update on the Energy Innovation Task Force

MountainTrue’s Julie Mayfield of Asheville City Council, Brownie Newman of Buncombe County Commission, and Jason Walls of Duke Energy will present to the Sierra Club on June 7 to provide an update on the County-City-Duke partnership to reduce energy use in Buncombe County and to avoid construction of a new natural gas peaking unit. The Energy Innovation Task Force has been working for just over a year and has made recommendations to the City and County for new programs and investments. To hear an update on this unique energy saving community effort, attend the meeting on June 7. Contact Judy Mattox with questions: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, 828-683-2176

Lewis Creek Preserve Hike
2017-06-08 09:00 - 12:00 | Lewis Creek Nature Preserve, 15 Ida Rogers Dr., Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
Want to get involved in Hendersonville’s Pollinator Month this June? Join MountainTrue experts for this hike along a meandering creek in Edneyville, NC to observe many habitats for local wildlife and plants. During this short and easy walk (less than 1 mile) we will encounter native irises, herbs, woody plants and hear birds chirping happily along the way. Bob Gale, our Ecologist and Public Lands Director will provide expert knowledge in identifying plants we see and birds we hear, and discussing the important roles these species play in our local habitats!
Please bring snacks, water, rain jacket and closed toe shoes.

Hendersonville Green Drinks: Disaster Preparedness in the Backcountry
2017-06-08 17:30 - 19:30 | Black Bear Coffee, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
Join us on Thursday, June 8, as Hendersonville Green Drinks welcomes Jonathan Feldman from Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy as he presents on disaster preparedness in the backcountry to include essential gear for all activities, basic survival tips and common scenarios one might encounter in the backcountry.
Jonathan Feldman, the current AmeriCorps Trails Associate at CMLC, was born in Tampa, Florida but has lived in many other states during his life. He moved to North Carolina to get a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina- Greensboro in Community Recreation & Parks Management with two minors in geography and political science. While having spent much of life his camping, hiking, fishing, and gallivanting outside Jonathan was instantly attracted to western North Carolina; he found splendor in the ancient, rugged mountains. During college Jonathan spent his summers working with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the Green Mountain, Greensboro Parks & Recreation, and Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks. Jonathan’s goal during his term of service is to provide and improve recreational activities for North Carolinians through sustainable trail building, environmental stewardship, and outdoor education. When Jonathan is not working you can find him hiking in Pisgah National Forest with his dog.
About Hendersonville Green Drinks
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by MountainTrue and the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. 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. Black Bear Coffee offers beer, wine, coffee drinks and sodas. A limited food menu will be available.

Mountain Top Yoga with MountainTrue and Inner Wild Yoga
2017-06-10 09:00 - 16:00 | The Pisgah Forest, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, 28768

Riverkeeper Beer Series Launch with River Float, Clean-up and Mango IPA from Hi-Wire Brewing
2017-06-17 13:00 - 20:00 | Hi-Wire Brewing – Big Top, 2A Huntsman Pl, Asheville, NC, 28803, United States

Father’s Day River Clean-Up
2017-06-18 12:30 - 15:00 | Jean Webb River Park, 30 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Join us for a SPECIAL Dad’s Day River Clean Up with MountainTrue, Asheville GreenWorks, and RiverLink. Dads, moms, sisters, brothers, sons, and daughters….everyone’s invited! We’ll put in at Jean Webb River Park and float on down to the Salvage Station, picking trash and tires from the river the whole way. French Broad Chocolates has promised some goodies for us at the take-out, and we encourage folks to cool off with a cold brew at the Salvage Station.

Details:
– June 18 at 12:30pm – 3pm
– 1.5 mile paddle on French Broad

Meet at Jean Webb River Park (30 Riverside Dr. Asheville NC 28801). We’ll put on the river and float down to the Salvage Station. French Broad Outfitters will shuttle us back to our cars at the end of the paddle.

Boats, gloves, trash bags, and paddle gear will be supplied by MountainTrue, Riverlink, and Asheville Greenworks. Bring some water, a hat, and sunscreen.

This event is a great opportunity to celebrate Father’s Day, make a tangible contribution to Asheville’s most important natural asset, and raise awareness about issues that affect the cleanliness of our French Broad River.

Follow this link to sign up today!

Watauga Riverkeeper River Clean Up
2017-06-18 15:00 - 18:00 | The Valle Crucis Community Park, 2892 Broadstone Road, Valle Crucis, NC, 28604, United States

From the Ashes Film Screening
2017-06-22 19:30 - 21:00 | Mad Batter Food & Film, 617 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC, 28779, United States
From the Ashes captures Americans in communities across the country as they wrestle with the legacy of the coal industry and what its future should be under the new Administration. From Appalachia to the West’s Powder River Basin, the film goes beyond the rhetoric of the “war on coal” to present compelling and often heartbreaking stories about what’s at stake for our economy, health, and climate. From the Ashes invites audiences to learn more about an industry on the edge and what it means for their lives. Hosts First Congregational of Asheville, Mad Batter of Sylva and sponsors, Interfaith Power and Light, MountainTrue and collaborations from other local congregations.
See a trailer.
Reservations are recommended (828-586-3555). Contact Sarah Ogletree (oglese16@wfu.edu) with any questions.

From the Ashes Film Screening
2017-06-23 18:30 - 20:30 | First Congregational Church, 20 Oak Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
From the Ashes captures Americans in communities across the country as they wrestle with the legacy of the coal industry and what its future should be under the new Administration. From Appalachia to the West’s Powder River Basin, the film goes beyond the rhetoric of the “war on coal” to present compelling and often heartbreaking stories about what’s at stake for our economy, health, and climate. From the Ashes invites audiences to learn more about an industry on the edge and what it means for their lives. Hosts First Congregational of Asheville, Mad Batter of Sylva and sponsors, Interfaith Power and Light, MountainTrue and collaborations from other local congregations.
See a trailer.
Join Creation Care Alliance and First Congregational UCC for a preview screening of “From the Ashes,” sponsored by NC Interfaith Power & Light, Mountaintrue and local faith communities on June 23rd, 6:30-8:30 p.m, at FirstCUCC Friendship Hall (20 Oak Street). We invite participants to bring their own food and drink to enjoy during the film. After the showing (about 80 minutes), we will hold a discussion about what we’ve seen. For more information for the Asheville Event, please contact Karen Richardson Dunn at krichdunn@gmail.com.

Upper French Broad RiverFest Volunteer Sign Up
2017-06-24 10:00 - 17:00 | Champion Park, Main Street, Rosman , 28772, United States
MountainTrue needs your help at the Second Annual Upper French Broad RiverFest!
The Transylvania French Broad Stewards, a volunteer organization that promotes the natural and economic vitality of the Upper French Broad River in Transylvania County, is hosting the second annual Upper French Broad Riverfest! This family friendly event will celebrate the Upper French Broad River with live music, food, local vendors and exhibitors, and lots of activities for kids of all ages, including a canoe relay, free tubing for kids, fishing games, water quality and critters (sponsored and led by MountainTrue), reptiles and more. MountainTrue is a major partner is conducting the event, as well as the Town of Rosman and Headwaters Outfitters. Our sponsors include Transylvania Tourism, Transylvania County, Dugans Pub, and Keystone Camp. We need your help to make the event a success!
Volunteers will be assigned to various stations such as setup, cleanup, recycling and trash, water cooler table, runners, event guides, tubing supervisor, shuttle driver, canoe relay race supervisor, and registration/info table. Some exhibitors who are conducting kids’ activities may need occasional help. ​
All volunteers will receive a free Upper French Broad Riverfest volunteer t-shirt! Volunteers will be expected to wear the t-shirt at the event.
When: June 24, 2017, 10:00am-5:00pm
Where: Champion Park, Rosman, NC 287722
Here’s a link to sign up to help!

Veganism as a Strategy for Sustainability
2017-06-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Sanctuary Brewing Company, 147 1st Ave E, Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
Have you ever considered the ethical and environmental consequences of your food choices? If so, please join us for a presentation on the topic of “Veganism as a Strategy for Sustainability.” Evan Parker, a graduate student in Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Sustainability Studies program, will discuss the environmental impacts of animal agriculture, the ethical implications of consuming animal products and how the adoption of a vegan lifestyle can contribute to a sustainable society.
What: Veganism as a Strategy for Sustainability
Who: Evan Parker, a graduate student in Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Sustainability Studies program
Where: Sanctuary Brewing Company, 147 First Avenue East, Hendersonville, NC 28792
When: Monday, June 26 from 5:30-7 p.m.
The event will be held at Sanctuary Brewing Company in Hendersonville, NC on Monday, June 26. The night will begin with a meet and greet at 5:30 p.m. followed by a presentation from 6-7 p.m. Vegan paninis and beer will be available for purchase!
This event is co-sponsored by Sanctuary Brewing Company, MountainTrue, Asheville Vegan Outreach (a program of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue) and Progressive Women of Hendersonville.

Creation Care Alliance Hidden Life of Beech Trees Hike
2017-06-28 13:00 - 17:30 | NC
Join Creation Care Alliance leaders Chas Jansen and Sarah Ogletree as they lead this ecological and spiritual walk in the forest along the Blue Ridge Parkway. This magical portion of the Mountains to Sea trail closely follows the ridgeline and is dominated by yellow buckeye, yellow birch, and beech trees. Most of the beech trees, in particular, are centuries old and have been stunted and gnarled by the wind into fantastic shapes. Leaving at 1 pm and hiking with several stops for perhaps 3 hours, we aim to be back in Asheville by 5:30. Email Chas chas.jansen@mtsu.edu or Sarah oglese16@wfu.edu for more information.
Register here!

2017 Riverkeeper Beer Series at Wedge Brewing Co. at The Foundation
2017-07-08 13:00 - 19:00 | NC

Creation Care Alliance at the Wild Goose Festival
2017-07-13 - 2017-07-16 | NC
The Creation Care Alliance will collaborate with the Wild Goose Festival providing support, making connections with congregations and lending a voice to the Creation Care conversation along with our partners at the North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The Creation Care Alliance will offer two workshops on Faith and Creation Care, make significant connections and will be inspired for our ongoing work.
Learn more at wildgoosefestival.org.
You can volunteer to support Wildgoose and CCA by offering shuttle rides to and from the airport.
Sign up to volunteer here.

Hendersonville Green Drinks: Bicycle and Pedestrian Issues
2017-07-13 17:30 - 19:30 | Black Bear Coffee, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
On Thursday, July 13th, Hendersonville Green Drinks welcomes Tristan Winkler, Senior Transportation Planner for the French Broad River Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). He will present on recent bicycle and pedestrian issues in the area, and ways that the public can get involved!
What: Hendersonville Green Drinks: Bicycle and Pedestrian Issues
Who: Tristan Winkler, Senior Transportation Planner with the French Broad River MPO
Where: Black Bear Coffee Co. 318 N. Main St. Hendersonville, NC
When: Thursday, July 13th, networking at 5:30 p.m., presentation at 6:00 p.m.
Tristan Winkler is a Senior Transportation Planner with the French Broad River Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and has worked on various transportation projects in Western North Carolina since 2013 as a private consultant and, later, at the MPO. Tristan is a board member of the Association of Bicycle and Pedestrian Professionals of North Carolina, and director-at-large for the Western North Carolina Chapter of Women in Transportation.
About Hendersonville Green Drinks
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by MountainTrue and the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. 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. Black Bear Coffee offers beer, wine, coffee drinks and sodas. A limited food menu will be available.

Advocacy Training Workshop
2017-07-17 16:00 - 17:30 | MountainTrue – Southern Regional Office, 611 N. Church Street, NC, 28792, United States
Join us Monday, July 17, at 4:00 PM at our Southern Regional Office for an Advocacy Training Workshop! We will discuss strategies to make your voice heard on issues at the federal, state, and local levels. Learn who to contact, how to frame your messages, and ways to get involved to influence government decision-makers.
What: Advocacy Training Workshop
Where: MountainTrue Southern Regional Office at 611 N. Church Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792
When: 4:00 PM, Monday, July 17, 2017
RSVP: Here

Rhythm & Brews in Downtown Hendersonville
2017-07-20 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Hendersonville, 201 South Main Street, Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
Rhythm & Brews is a free outdoor concert series in Downtown Hendersonville, NC.
Featured Band: The Steel Wheels
Americana roots music
Opener: Angela Easterling & The Beguilers
Singer/Songwriter: Rob Williams
This concert showcases one of the great Americana acts touring today. The Steel Wheels have captured audiences across the country with their heady brew of original soulful mountain music and their deep commitment to roots and community. Based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, this dynamic five-piece string band marries old-time musical traditions with their own innovative sound. The combination generates a truly magnetic revival of an all-american genre. Another of our acts releasing a new album in 2017, you won’t want to miss Steel Wheels.

Creation Care Alliance Concert & Fundraiser
2017-07-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, 91 North Lakeshore Dr., Lake Junuluska, NC, 28745, United States
Join Creation Care Alliance (CCA) for a lovely night in a truly beautiful place! William Ritter & Sarah Ogletree, singers and traditional fiddle, banjo, and guitar players, will begin playing at 5:00 p.m. at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center and will wrap up the night around 7:00 in the evening. They are excited to be putting on a concert for CCA!
This event will serve as a fundraiser, a time of fellowship, and an opportunity for new faces to become acquainted with us and our mission. We so look forward to our time at the lake!
To learn more about William and Sarah’s music visit their website: http://sarahandwilliam.weebly.com/

Forest Service Open House in the Appalachian Ranger District
2017-07-25 15:00 - 18:00 | Appalachian District Office, 632 Manor Road, Mars Hill, NC, 28754, United States
If you care about Western North Carolina’s national forests, enjoy our beautiful mountain vistas and hiking trails, or playing in the many streams and swimming holes within the Pisgah National Forest, a Forest Service Open House is your opportunity to talk directly with Forest Service staff one-on-one about how the forest will be managed for the years to come.
Here are the remaining Open House Events:

July 25, 3-6 p.m.: Appalachian Ranger District at Appalachian District Office, 632 Manor Road, Mars Hill.
July 25, 3-6 p.m.: Cheoah Ranger District at Cheoah District Office, 1070 Massey Branch Road, Robbinsville.
August 8, 3-6 p.m.: Tusquitee Ranger District, Brasstown Community Center, 255 Settawig Rd, Brasstown

Each District Open House will highlight the areas within that district. District rangers and members of the Forest Plan revision team will be available to discuss the materials.
The Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests have been revising their Forest Plan, a required document that provides a general framework to guide management of the Forests. As part of the process, 30 public meetings have been held in communities throughout western North Carolina.
Over the past year, the Forest Service has been releasing pre-draft plan materials on the National Forests in North Carolina website. Additional materials are posted to the site’s Plan Revision Under Construction page as they become available.
Here are MountainTrue’s assessments based on the current pre-draft plan materials:

Pisgah Ranger District: Upper Courthouse Creek, Daniel Ridge, Cedar Rock Mountain, and upper Lickstone Ridge should be placed in backcountry Management to protect their remote character and the species that depend on them.
Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests in general: There are many special places that are in the wrong management area and lack the amount of protection they require. In particular, Daniel Ridge, Cedar Rock Mountain, Upper Santeetlah Creek, Ash Cove, Tellico Bald, Snowball Mountain, Lickstone Ridge, and dozens of smaller natural areas are not protected by the forest plan. The Bartram Trail, Benton McKay Trail, Art Loeb Trail, and Mountains-To-Sea Trail lack a management area that would preserve the special character of these long-distance hiking trails. They should be designated as special corridors, similar to the Appalachian Trail and the Trail of Tears which have such protection.
We are pleased by the creation of a new Special Interest Area in Big Ivy, though it should cover all of Big Ivy, and not just a portion of it.

MountainTrue Assessments of Other Ranger Districts:

Appalachian Ranger District: Snowball Mountain, Coxcombe Mountain, and Shope Creek should be included in the Craggy Mountains/Big Ivy Special Interest Area.
Cheoah Ranger District: Upper Santeetlah Creek should be a Special Interest Area or backcountry area.
Tusquitee District: Gipp Creek should be placed in backcountry management. The Unicoi Mountain backcountry area should be expanded.
Grandfather Ranger District: Linville Mountain should be placed in backcountry management. The Upper Creek Gorge/Sugar Knob Backcountry area should be expanded. The Upper Wilson Creek Backcountry area should be expanded.
Nantahala Ranger District: All of Panthertown Valley and Flat Creek should be in backcountry management. Tellico Bald, Siler Bald, and Fish Hawk Mountain should be placed in backcountry management. The backcountry area around Terrapin Mountain should be expanded to 4,000 acres. Corbin Knob, Hench Knob, and Chunky Gal Mountain should be Special Interest Areas.

2017 Riverkeeper Beer Series at Wicked Weed Brewing
2017-07-29 03:00 - 17:00 | NC
Join us for another great summer of great beers and fun on the river with the French Broad Riverkeeper Beer Series, presented by MountainTrue and Blue Ridge Orthodontics and sponsored by Mix 96.5.
From June through August, there will be five French Broad Riverkeeper Beer Series events that will include clean-ups and float trips on the French Broad River. Floaters and clean-up volunteers are then invited to sample a new limited-release beer from one of six participating breweries, including Hi-Wire Brewing, New Belgium Brewing, Oskar Blues Brewery, Wedge Brewing Company and Wicked Weed Brewing. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these very special beers goes to support the work of the French Broad Riverkeeper protecting the French Broad River watershed.
Each French Broad Riverkeeper Beer Series event will also be co-sponsored by a local outdoor gear manufacturer who will donate prizes, apparel and gear that will be raffled off at the release parties to support the cause. Supporting gear builders include Astral, Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO), Liquid Logic Kayaks, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), and Watershed.
Presented by MountainTrue and Blue Ridge Orthodontics and sponsored by Mix 96.5, the French Broad Riverkeeper Beer Series:

July 29 – Beer release party at Wicked Weed Brewing.
No float trip this time, just a beer release party from 3-5pm
August 3 – Save the French Broad River Concert featuring Michael Franti and Spearhead at the Salvage Station.
Get your tickets here: Buy Tickets on Eventbrite
August 12 – River float with a beer release party at Oskar Blues Brewery.
Get your tickets here: Buy Tickets on Eventbrite
August 19 – River float with beer release party at New Belgium Brewing.
Tickets coming soon.

The Riverkeeper Beer Series includes the August 3 Save the French Broad River Concert starring Michael Franti & Spearhead. Tickets for the concert are on sale now. Get more information and Buy Tickets for the Save the French Broad Concert on Eventbrite.

Save the French Broad Concert
2017-08-03 18:00 - 23:00 | The Salvage Station, 466 Riverside Drive, Asheville, NC, 28804, United States
MountainTrue, the French Broad Riverkeeper, Blue Ridge Orthodontics and Mix 96.5 are pleased to announce the 2017 Riverkeeper Beer Series, including the French Broad River Concert on August 3 starring Michael Franti & Spearhead. Get your tickets here: Buy Tickets on Eventbrite.
French Broad Riverkeeper Hartwell Carson explains:
Asheville and the region love the French Broad River and the Riverkeeper Beer series is a great way to celebrate that. The Michael Franti concert combined with the river floats and beer release parties are a great way to enjoy summer in Asheville and support our work keeping the French Broad River a clean and safe place for people to paddle and play.
Tickets for the concert go on sale Friday, April 7. General Admission is $31 advance / $36 at the door. VIP tickets are $100. VIP ticket holders will have an opportunity to attend a short, intimate acoustic set by Michael Franti prior to the show, access to food by Salvage Station, reserved viewing area with private bar during the main concert, and complimentary special release beers by Hi-Wire Brewing, Wedge Brewing Co., Wicked Weed Brewing, Oskar Blues Brewery, and New Belgium Brewing.
MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD
Michael Franti is a musician, filmmaker and humanitarian who is recognized as a pioneering force in the music industry. Long known for his globally conscious lyrics, powerful performances, and dynamic live shows, Franti has continually been at the forefront of lyrical activism, using his music as a positive force for change.
“I make music because I believe it can change people’s lives and make a difference in the world,” enthuses Franti, “music gives us new energy and a stronger sense of purpose.” He and his band Spearhead, known for their authentic and uplifting music, have found global success with multi-platinum songs like “Say Hey (I Love You)”, the chart breaking 2010 release of The Sound Of Sunshine. Franti and his band guarantee a show that will be thought provoking as well as energetic.
Franti has a brand new single, “Once A Day” from his upcoming debut album on Fantasy Records. “Once a Day” was inspired by his son’s diagnosis with a rare kidney disease called FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis) in the hopes that this song would inspire anyone in the world who is going through challenging times. “My belief is that through music, dance and gratitude for this life we can all ‘rise up’,” explains Franti. “Once A Day” was produced by Supa Dups (Eminem, Damian Marley, Bruno Mars) and features special guest Sonna Rele. This new song has the same feel-good, inspiring vibe as “Say Hey (I Love You),” his 2x platinum hit single.
Giving back has always been at the heart of Franti’s mission, he has dedicated his life to spreading the joy of music and positivity to millions of people. Franti’s humanitarian, social justice, and peace efforts continue to inspire his music and are infused throughout his upcoming album on Fantasy Records due to release in May 2016.
We hope you’ll join us for what’s sure to be an amazing show!

Forest Open House in the Tusquitte Ranger District
2017-08-08 15:00 - 18:00 | Brasstown Community Center, 225 Settawig RD, Brasstown, NC, 28902, United States
If you care about Western North Carolina’s national forests, enjoy our beautiful mountain vistas and hiking trails, or playing in the many streams and swimming holes within the Pisgah National Forest, a Forest Service Open House is your opportunity to talk directly with Forest Service staff one-on-one about how the forest will be managed for the years to come.
Each District Open House will highlight the areas within that district. District rangers and members of the Forest Plan revision team will be available to discuss the materials.
The Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests have been revising their Forest Plan, a required document that provides a general framework to guide management of the Forests. As part of the process, 30 public meetings have been held in communities throughout western North Carolina.
Over the past year, the Forest Service has been releasing pre-draft plan materials on the National Forests in North Carolina website. Additional materials are posted to the site’s Plan Revision Under Construction page as they become available.
Here are MountainTrue’s assessments based on the current pre-draft plan materials:
Pisgah Ranger District: Upper Courthouse Creek, Daniel Ridge, Cedar Rock Mountain, and upper Lickstone Ridge should be placed in backcountry Management to protect their remote character and the species that depend on them.
Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests in general: There are many special places that are in the wrong management area and lack the amount of protection they require. In particular, Daniel Ridge, Cedar Rock Mountain, Upper Santeetlah Creek, Ash Cove, Tellico Bald, Snowball Mountain, Lickstone Ridge, and dozens of smaller natural areas are not protected by the forest plan. The Bartram Trail, Benton McKay Trail, Art Loeb Trail, and Mountains-To-Sea Trail lack a management area that would preserve the special character of these long-distance hiking trails. They should be designated as special corridors, similar to the Appalachian Trail and the Trail of Tears which have such protection.
We are pleased by the creation of a new Special Interest Area in Big Ivy, though it should cover all of Big Ivy, and not just a portion of it.
MountainTrue Assessments of Other Ranger Districts:
Appalachian Ranger District: Snowball Mountain, Coxcombe Mountain, and Shope Creek should be included in the Craggy Mountains/Big Ivy Special Interest Area.
Cheoah Ranger District: Upper Santeetlah Creek should be a Special Interest Area or backcountry area.
Tusquitee District: Gipp Creek should be placed in backcountry management. The Unicoi Mountain backcountry area should be expanded.
Grandfather Ranger District: Linville Mountain should be placed in backcountry management. The Upper Creek Gorge/Sugar Knob Backcountry area should be expanded. The Upper Wilson Creek Backcountry area should be expanded.
Nantahala Ranger District: All of Panthertown Valley and Flat Creek should be in backcountry management. Tellico Bald, Siler Bald, and Fish Hawk Mountain should be placed in backcountry management. The backcountry area around Terrapin Mountain should be expanded to 4,000 acres. Corbin Knob, Hench Knob, and Chunky Gal Mountain should be Special Interest Areas.

Hendersonville Green Drinks: The Plastic Shopping Bag Saga
2017-08-10 17:30 - 19:30 | Black Bear Coffee, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC, 28792, United States
Thursday, Aug. 10: Hendersonville Green Drinks: The Plastic Shopping Bag Saga
On Thursday, August 10, Hendersonville Green Drinks welcomes Chuck Breckheimer, a chemistry teacher of more than 32 years and member of MountainTrue and Conserving Carolina (formerly CMLC). He will speak on the lifecycle of plastic bags, their effect on our environment, and how our choices can reduce the number of bags that end up in our rivers and streams, and tangled in trees. Chuck hopes that this information will lead to changes in the way we use plastic bags.
What: Hendersonville Green Drinks: The Plastic Shopping Bag Saga
Who: Chuck Breckheimer, chemist and teacher
Where: Black Bear Coffee Co. 318 N. Main St. Hendersonville, NC
When: Thursday, August 10, networking at 5:30 p.m., presentation at 6:00 p.m.
Chuck Breckheimer received his masters in teaching and organic chemistry from Cornell University. He taught chemistry as a peace corps volunteer for two years in Ghana, and as a high school teacher for 32 years before moving to western North Carolina. He continues to tutor as a volunteer at Hendersonville and West Henderson high schools.
About Hendersonville Green Drinks
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by MountainTrue and the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. 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. Black Bear Coffee offers beer, wine, coffee drinks and sodas. A limited food menu will be available.

2017 Riverkeeper Beer Series at Oskar Blues Brewery
2017-08-12 14:00 - 20:00 | NC
