Watauga Riverkeeper
The Watauga Riverkeeper is the key protector and watchdog of the Watauga River Watershed in Western North Carolina’s High Country Region. VolunteerAbout
MountainTrue’s Watauga Riverkeeper, Andy Hill, endeavors to monitor and protect the quality of our region’s waterways through dedicated volunteers and engagement with communities in Watauga and Avery counties, as well as local and state government. The Watauga Riverkeeper wants all High Country residents and visitors to enjoy clean waterways that are free of sediment pollution and support a thriving mountain ecosystem.
The Watauga Riverkeeper is a program of MountainTrue’s High Country Office and a proud member of the Waterkeeper Alliance.
Meet Andy

Andy Hill is proud to serve MountainTrue as the High Country Regional Director and Watauga Riverkeeper. Andy has a passion for clean, cold, fishable, drinkable, and swimmable water. As a long-time fly fisherman, educator, and guide, he is intimately familiar with our watershed from the headwaters to the tailwater and is passionate about protecting the places we love. >>more
Volunteer
We have many regular volunteer opportunities throughout the warmer months. Below are some of the ways you can get involved with the Watauga Riverkeeper. Click the images to add your name to our volunteer roster. Please note that volunteer event dates and times are subject to change due to weather conditions with short notice. Follow the Watauga Riverkeeper Instagram and Facebook Page or email emma@mountaintrue.org to receive the most up-to-date information on event changes/cancellations.
Watauga Riverkeeper News
MT Raleigh Report – HB47 is A Critical $500M Lifeline for Western NC Recovery
The North Carolina General Assembly is finally taking steps toward disaster relief for Western NC after Hurricane Helene. HB47, a $500M bill, is on the House’s agenda—but will it get Senate approval? Find out what’s in the bill and what’s next for recovery!
MT Raleigh Report: Politics, Disaster Relief, and the Fight for Western North Carolina’s Future
Disaster recovery in Western North Carolina is being held up by political gridlock, leaving urgent needs unmet. Learn how MountainTrue is stepping up with solutions and advocating for our communities in Raleigh.
Action Alert: Help Us Remove Debris From Our Rivers After Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene left our rivers devastated, and the need for action has never been more urgent. Debris and pollution are choking our waterways, threatening our environment, public safety, and economy. Take action now: Email your state legislators and tell them why restoring our rivers matters to you and our community.