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.