The Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River will hold a public planning meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at Southwestern Community College’s Sylva campus.

Anyone with an interest in protecting and improving the quality of the Tuckasegee River is invited to attend.

“It is an opportunity for our members and all who are interested in safeguarding our creeks and rivers to sign up for tasks and offer their input. We also want people who are just curious about WATR and about our activities,” said Roger Clapp, WATR executive director.

Clapp said the group will discuss its “ambitious calendar of community events and field work” for the year.

WATR needs volunteers for several projects and activities, including: water monitoring and sampling, mud-source identification, creek cleanups, stream-bank repair, youth programs, public outreach and developing nature trails, including construction of the Scotts Creek Trail at Monteith Farmstead Park. Refreshments will be served starting at 5:30 p.m. Held in room 133 of Founders Hall. 828.488.8418.