Conserving Carolina and the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Transylvania County Center are offering a series of lectures, April – July, to better acquaint the public with the French Broad River, considered one of the oldest rivers in the world. Join Lia Waldrum, Indigenous Partnership and Restoration Coordinator for Conserving Carolina for “An Overview of Conserving Carolina’s French Broad River Restoration Projects.” Conserving Carolina has completed several restoration projects along the French Broad River and it’s tributaries. To date restoring nearly 50 acres of wetlands, 125 acres of floodplain, nearly 23 acres of native pollinator habitat, and nearly 5 miles of streams. These restoration sites have returned abandoned agricultural land and a failed golf course development back to more natural floodplains designed to handle periods of high water, created wetlands, and restored native vegetation and habitat that supports a variety of species, both terrestrial and aquatic. In addition, Conserving Carolina has been directly collaborating with Cherokee artisans who have harvested rivercane from some of these sites for making traditional baskets and clay for making traditional pottery. Cherokee artisans are also helping to develop planting plans on upcoming restoration projects along the French Broad River. These plans will prioritize plants of cultural significance to the Cherokee, such as white oak, rivercane, and yellowroot for their future harvest and sustainable use. Come learn about these exciting projects and what the Conservancy has planned for 2024 –... Read More