Green Drinks: Restoring Natural Floodplains – Building Resilience for Communities and Ecosystems 2/13
2025-02-13 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
Restoring natural floodplains offers transformative benefits for both communities and ecosystems. Conserving Carolina’s Natural Resources Director, David Lee, will highlight Conserving Carolina’s innovative floodplain restoration projects along the French Broad River, focusing on their important role in mitigating flood risks, improving biodiversity, and enhancing water quality. Using real-world examples, such as the Pleasant Grove and Kings Bridge restorations, we’ll explore strategies to restore natural functions to floodplains and build resilience against extreme weather events like Tropical Storm Helene. Attendees will gain insights into effective restoration techniques, the power of community partnerships, and the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge. Join us to learn how these projects serve as a model for creating thriving, sustainable landscapes that support both people and nature.
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.

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.

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

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

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

Elk River Clean-up near Banner Elk, NC 2/22-CANCELED
2025-02-22 09:30 - 14:30 | Lowe’s Food (Banner Elk), 4000 NC-105, Linville, NC, 28604
Due to inclement weather, this event has been canceled. Please check back for other upcoming events! Come join the Clean Water team as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Meet-up: Lowe’s Food in Banner Elk @ 4000 NC-105 Linville NC 28604
The group will meet and carpool to our clean-up location on the Elk River.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty.
We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., However feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.
**All volunteer opportunities are subject to change based on weather and circumstances. Please be patient with our team and community as we all recover from the storm.**

Live Staking Work Day near Boone, NC 2/22-CANCELED
2025-02-22 10:00 - 13:00 | North Carolina
Due to inclement weather, we are forced to cancel this event; the ground will be too cold. Please check back for additional upcoming workdays soon! Live staking season is officially here! Come help us start to restore riverbanks of the High Country after Hurricane Helene. We’ll be planting stakes that will eventually grow into trees, and protect our rivers from erosion and pollution.
The exact location will be announced at a later date. We will email registered participants with the exact location and meet-up details..
We’ll decide where we’re planting based on that week’s weather. Work locations will be along the Watauga or New Rivers. Depending on the warmth that day, we may be paddling, so there could be an opportunity to canoe down and plant as we go. We will let you know beforehand what the day will hold.
Please bring: Lunch/snacks, Warm layers & gloves (we’ll be on the water, so dress for weather and make sure it’s things you don’t mind getting dirty), Rubber boots and/or waders and An extra set of dry clothes.

Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing but youth are welcome.

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

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

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

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.

Conservation Conversations with MountainTrue in Brevard, NC 2/26
2025-02-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Ecusta Brewing, 451 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC, 28712
Meet the organizations in your community working to conserve our forests and rivers. We’ll provide time for socializing and sipping, then jump into a conversation on the current conservation issues and what we’re doing to address them.
Ecusta Brewing Co. offers food and a variety of beverages (including non-alcoholic options). No outside food or beverages are permitted.
Youth are welcome as long as accompanied by a parent/guardian the entire time. Please note: after 7 pm, the room used for the event is 21+.

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.

Boone Greenway Trail Clean-up NC 3/7
2025-03-07 10:00 - 14:00 | 283 Martin Luther King Jr. St. Boone NC, 28607. 36.204297, -81.651667, 283 Martin Luther King Jr. St., Boone, NC, 28607
Come join Mountain True as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene. We will be removing trash and debris along the Boone Greenway Trail in the riparian areas. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty.
We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., However feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.
**All volunteer opportunities are subject to change based on weather and circumstances. Please be patient with our team and community as we all recover from the storm.**
Children aged 14 and are older are welcome. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the event.

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

Register Now!

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.

French Broad River Clean-up at Silverline Park in Woodfin, NC 3/8 & 3/9
2025-03-09 11:30 - 15:30 | Silverline Park, 1050 Riverside Drive, Woodfin, NC, 28804
Hosted by the Town of Woodfin in cooperation with Asheville Greenworks and MountainTrue–join us for a land-based clean-up after Hurricane Helene.
Youth aged 14 and older are welcome to participate. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.

Register Now!

Green Drinks: Advantages of Supporting a Hyper-Local Food System (Hendersonville, NC) 3/13
2025-03-13 17:30 - 19:00 | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
Making intentional purchases from local small-scale farmers, farmers’ markets, and grocers does more than just make us feel good; it directly influences significant regional environmental concerns and amplifies the local economy.
Alicia and Kevin Stump are the owners of Stump Farms, a small-scale family farm located in Hendersonville, NC. Established in 2017 as first-generation farmers, they prioritize sustainable and regenerative practices in their cultivation of vegetables, gourmet mushrooms, and more. Additionally, they draw inspiration from heirloom produce and herbs to create a range of canned goods and all-natural skincare products.
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.

Live Staking Work Day near Valle Crucis, NC 3/15
2025-03-15 10:00 - 13:00 | North Carolina
Live staking season is officially here! Come help us start to restore the riverbanks of the High Country after Hurricane Helene. We’ll be planting stakes along Dutch Creek, a tributary of the Watauga River. Livestakes will eventually grow into trees, and protect our rivers from erosion and pollution.

We will be meeting from 10 am-1 pm at the Valle Country Fair Grounds (on the left across the street from the Valle Crucis Conference Center) with parking available here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/egPkgKX8VDkEVzJ47

We are grateful for our partnership with Valle Crucis Conference Center, which made this day possible! Be sure to check their website for a full list of all their events and offerings: https://vcconferences.org/

Please bring: Plenty of water, lunch/snacks, warm layers & gloves (we’ll be in and around the creek, so dress for weather and make sure it’s items you don’t mind getting dirty), rubber boots and/or waders and an extra set of dry clothes.
Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing but youth are welcome. Please no pets!

MountainTrue Helene Clean-up along the Upper Broad River below Lake Lure 3/16
2025-03-16 13:00 - 17:00 | North Carolina
Join MountainTrue’s Broad Riverkeeper and River Clean-up Coordinator, along with help from Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, as we clean up trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Rutherford County along the Upper Broad River, about 5 miles below Lake Lure.
We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas and on an island. This is a land-based clean-up, with some of us wading across to the island.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterwards in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
For safety reasons, no participants under the age of 18 are permitted. Please check out our other volunteer opportunities for kid-friendly events.
LOCATION:
5563 US 64/74a Hwy
Rutherfordton, NC 28139

Register Now

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Marshall, NC 3/19
2025-03-19 10:00 - 14:00 | North Carolina
Please join the French Broad Riverkeeper team as we partner with the National Forest Service to reopen the Stackhouse parking point. We will work to remove mud from the stairs and ramp area and clean trash in and around the access point. If you have shovels, rakes, and mud boots, please bring them. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION: Stackhouse Takeout Marshall, NC 28753

Register Now!

MountainTrue & Rutherford Outdoor Coalition Helene Clean-up along the Upper Broad River below Lake Lure 3/20
2025-03-20 11:00 - 15:00 | North Carolina
Join MountainTrue’s Broad Riverkeeper and River Clean-up Coordinator, along with help from Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, as we clean up trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Rutherford County along the Upper Broad River, about 2 miles below Lake Lure.
We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas and on an island. This is a land-based clean-up, with some of us wading across to the island.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterwards in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
For safety reasons, no participants under the age of 18 are permitted. Please check out our other volunteer opportunities for kid-friendly events.
LOCATION:6750 US 64/74a HwyLake Lure, NC 28746

Register Now

Live Staking Work Day with MountainTrue and Mast General Store in Banner Elk, NC 3/21
2025-03-21 09:00 - 15:00 | North Carolina
We are so excited to partner with Mast General Store in Honor of World Water Day to plant live stakes along a treasured tributary of the Watauga River, Dutch Creek. This service day is open to all Mast General Store, as well as the public!
We will be hosting two planting “shifts”, the first one from 9am-11am and the second from 12pm-3pm. We will have live stakes from Foggy Mountain Nursery- they offer a variety of native riparian species we will plant along the banks to stabilize the creek. This is great for water quality, bank stabilization, and providing habitat for pollinators and aquatic species alike!
MountainTrue will have livestakes, tools, waders, gloves, etc. to offer volunteers throughout the day, but as always, if you have gear or a favorite pair of gloves, you may be more comfortable bringing those!
Children are welcome as long as accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please no pets.
Location: Mast General Store Annex 2918 Broadstone Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604, parking available
We are looking forward to planting with you soon! https://mountaintrue.org/mountaintrue-faq-live-staking/

Register Now!

Community Invasive Plant Workday on Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee, NC 3/21
2025-03-21 13:00 - 16:00 | North Carolina
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!

North Toe River Clean-up in the High Country (NC) 3/22
2025-03-22 09:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Baptist Church, 268 Powder Creek Rd., Newland, NC, 28657
Come join Mountain True as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty.
We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc. However feel free to bring your own if you would like.
Meet-up location:
Powdermill Baptist Church
268 Powder Creek Rd.
Newland NC 28657
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.
**All volunteer opportunities are subject to change based on weather and circumstances. Please be patient with our team and community as we all recover from the storm.**
Children aged 14 and are older are welcome. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the event.

Live staking Workday in partnership with the Middle Fork Greenway in Blowing Rock, NC 3/22
2025-03-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Tweetsie Railroad, 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC, 28605
Join us Saturday 3/22 from 10 am-1 pm for a stream repair workshop! We will be planting live stakes along the Middle Fork Greenway, near Tweetsie Railroad! We will have a variety of native riparian species that we will plant along the Middle Fork, a tributary of the South Fork of the New River, to help stabilize the river banks, prevent erosion, and provide habitat and food for pollinators and aquatic species.
A special thank you to The Middle Fork Greenway for permission to plant, Tweetsie for allowing parking, and Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church for sponsoring this workday. We are grateful for our partners and collaborators who make these opportunities possible!
MountainTrue will have live stakes, tools, waders, gloves, first aid kit, etc. available for volunteers, but you are always welcome to bring your own gear to be more comfortable.
Please bring: Plenty of water, lunch/snacks, warm layers & gloves (we’ll be in and around the creek, so dress for the weather and make sure you bring items you don’t mind getting dirty), rubber boots and/or waders and an extra set of dry clothes.
Parking: Park at the far end of the Tweetsie parking lot here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/neoLrZ8NLZNkaJQx9 36.168199, -81.647677
General address to the parking lot: 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (take a left into the Tweetsie parking lot and we will be in the far left corner of the lot near the Middle Fork of the New River).
We are looking forward to planting with you soon! https://mountaintrue.org/mountaintrue-faq-live-staking/

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

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Hot Springs, NC 3/27
2025-03-27 10:00 - 14:00 | North Carolina
Please join the French Broad Riverkeeper team as we partner with the National Forest Service to reopen the Murray Branch River access park. We will work to remove trash and debris from the riparian area in and around the park. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas upstream and downstream. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION: Clean-up was originally scheduled for Asheville, NC but has been moved to Murray Branch Park 935-2392 River Rd, Hot Springs, NC 28743

Register Now!

Join MountainTrue and Carolina Mountain Club for a Trail Workday near Asheville, NC 3/28
2025-03-28 08:30 - 14:30 | Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, 195 Hemphill Knob Rd., Asheville, NC, 28803
Join MountainTrue and Carolina Mountain Club for a day of trail maintenance work! You’ll help clear and repair national forest trails damaged during Hurricane Helene.
Please bring lunch, plenty of water, and any medications you may need. MountainTrue and Carolina Mountain Club will provide trail work equipment, but you may prefer to bring your personal work gloves. We will have snacks available. Remember to wear appropriate attire for trail maintenance (pants, closed-toe shoes) and bring sunscreen/bug spray/etc.
Meet-up: Meet at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center (195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803) at 8:30AM. We will carpool to the work site from there to make parking easier.
Children that are able to hike in and out to the worksite are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Register Now!

Helton Creek Clean-Up with New River Conservancy in Grassy Creek, NC 3/29
2025-03-29 10:00 - 14:00 | 1850 Big Helton Rd., Grassy Creek, NC 28631, 1850 Big Helton Rd., Grassy Creek, NC, 28631
Join MountainTrue and other awesome organizations in Grassy Creek, NC for a clean-up on Helton Creek. This clean-up is a collaboration between New River Conservancy, MountainTrue, Keep Ashe Beautiful and Trout Unlimited.
Please bring: food, water and dress in layers for the cold weather. Rubber boots are best for trudging around this area.
Meet at: 1850 Big Helton Rd., Grassy Creek, NC 28631
RAIN DATE in case of inclement weather is 4/5/25
Sign up here: https://forms.gle/ACfr5HJq7NLYaDCn6
https://newriverconservancy.org/events/
Anyone age 18 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the clean-up, but kids are welcome.

Invasive Plant Removal Workday at Little Tennessee Greenway, Franklin, NC 3/29
2025-03-29 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: APRIL 5th
SIGN UP HERE

Black Mountain Parks Clean up with MountainTrue and Black Mountain Recreation & Parks 4/2
2025-04-02 10:00 - 14:00 | North Carolina
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper and the Black Mountain Recreation and Parks team as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Buncombe County. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas.Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION: Buncombe County Exact location TBD (Awaiting ACOE to finish at City of Asheville sites). Once confirmed, the location will be updated in the event listing and will be emailed to registered participants.
Kids aged 14 and up are welcome to join as long as supervised by a parent or guardian.

Register Now!

Hurricane Helene Recovery Panel & Discussion at NC Arboretum in Asheville, NC 4/3
2025-04-03 17:30 - 19:30 | NC Arboretum Education Center, 100 Frederick Law Olmstead Way, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Join MountainTrue and a panel of experts to discuss recovery in our area after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Panelists will address the impacts of natural disasters, what recovery means for our region and how the community can support these efforts.
This event is free of charge, but if you feel moved to make a donation to support critical work in our area, we invite you to do so when you register. The North Carolina Arboretum is generously donating use of the Education Auditorium for this event. All donations associated with the registration of this event will be split 50/50 with the NC Arboretum. Click here to learn more about the NC Arboretum.
The event will kick-off with social time from 5:30 to 6 pm with snacks and beverages provided for attendees. The panel will run from 6 to 7:30 pm.
**IF this event is FULL, please email amy@mountaintrue.org to be placed on the waitlist. You MUST be pre-registered to be granted admission to this event.
It is our hope to record this event as a resource for the community. If you cannot attend and wish to receive a link to the video, please click here to receive a notification when it is available.
About the Panelists and topics to be covered:
Moderator:
Jack Igleman of Carolina Public Press

Jack Igelman is the lead environmental reporter for Carolina Public Press and teaches economics and environmental studies at Warren Wilson College. During his two decades as a reporter, he’s written dozens of articles about people’s relationship to our landscape.
Floodplain Policy & Resilience:
Jenny Brennan-Climate Analyst, SELC

Jenny Brennan works to translate climate science and community needs into local, state, and federal policy changes that increase resilience to climate impacts. Jenny is from South Carolina and currently lives in Virginia, and through her work at the Southern Environmental Law Center she gets to focus her advocacy on her home region. As a Climate Analyst within SELC’s Climate Initiative and Co-Leader of Resilience work for the organization, Jenny focuses on disaster recovery reform, flooding policy, extreme heat, nature-based solutions, land use, climate justice, and applied climate science. Jenny is a proud alum of the College of Charleston and Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment.
Housing Needs:
Meg Fenton Lebeck- Executive Director of Housing Assistance Corporation

Margaret Fenton Lebeck is Executive Director of Housing Assistance Corporation, which has nearly doubled its staffing in response to this disaster. Founded as a home repair program in 1988, the organization has produced a dozen affordable housing complexes and builds single-family homes. Lebeck has previously served as executive director for Love Light + Melody, as chief of staff for Global Ministries of The UMC/ UMCOR, and as a researcher for UNICEF. Lebeck holds a master’s degree in Peace, Conflict and Development and is the recipient of Fulbright and Rotary International World Peace Fellowship awards.
Legislation & MountainTrue Programs:
Gray Jernigan-MountainTrue Deputy Director and General Counsel

Gray Jernigan is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Vermont Law School. He joined MountainTrue in 2016 as Southern Regional Director. A year later, he founded the Green Riverkeeper program and assumed that title in addition to his regional director duties. In 2023, he stepped into the role of Deputy Director & General Counsel where he oversees regional and programmatic goals of the organization across its entire service area and leads MountainTrue’s legislative advocacy efforts.
Recreation Economy:
Amy Allison-State Director of Outdoor Economy

Amy Allison is the Director of North Carolina’s Outdoor Recreation Economy Office, within the North Carolina Department of Commerce. In this role, she leads efforts to strengthen and grow the state’s outdoor recreation economy by fostering collaboration with outdoor businesses, local governments, and communities that depend on North Carolina’s diverse and abundant outdoor landscapes. Her office focuses on key areas including economic development, conservation, education and workforce training, as well as public health and wellness to ensure the state’s strategic growth as a place where residents, outdoor businesses, and recreation communities can thrive.
Throughout her dedicated career in the outdoor recreation sector, Allison has built strong ties within North Carolina’s vibrant outdoor community and beyond. She proudly calls Western North Carolina home. When she’s not working, Allison enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, exploring the outdoors, and seeking out new adventures.
Resilient Forests:
Greg Cooper-Sustainable Forests Initiative

Greg Cooper is the Director of Conservation Implementation with the Sustainable Forestry Initiative where he works on topics related to biodiversity, climate-informed forestry and how they relate to forest certification. He lives in Asheville, North Carolina and is a Registered Forester. As a forester, he has worked for The Nature Conservancy and the United States Forest Service. He has experience living and working in Appalachian Forests from Maine to Georgia and is especially interested in protecting the biodiversity within and promoting the resilience of our forests. Greg has a Master of Forestry and Environmental Management from the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University and an
undergraduate degree in Biology from Drew University in New Jersey.
Access to the Arboretum: Your on-site program registration grants you admission to the Arboretum the day of your program. You are welcome to come before, or remain after, to explore the grounds. If you are not a member, please let the Gatehouse attendant know you are here for the program. Please arrive early to allow time for entry, parking, and taking care of any other needs before your program. Restrooms are available in the Education Center, Baker Center, and portable toilets are scattered in the landscape. While this program takes place at a public location, please do not bring any pets or unregistered guests, including children, with you.
If you’re using GPS to get to the Arboretum, make sure you’re heading to 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville NC, 28806. Campus map linked here.
