Wildlife agency updates on hatchery devastated by Helene
Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina on Sept. 27, 2024, nearly destroying the Armstrong State Fish Hatchery in McDowell County. Flooding and landslides caused major damage and killed more than 600,000 fish, severely reducing trout production.
Delayed harvest trout season begins Oct. 1
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) will implement Delayed Harvest Trout Waters regulations on 33 trout waters beginning Oct. 1.
Under Delayed Harvest Trout Waters regulations, only catch-and-release of trout is permissible from program waters between Oct. 1, 2025 and June 5, 2026.
Most of WNC now in moderate drought
The North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council has again classified the whole state as at least abnormally dry with a moderate drought now affecting the entire Smoky Mountain News coverage area other than a sliver of northern Haywood County.
Accessible trail opens in Old Fort
A new hiking trail is now open in Old Fort, offering an opportunity for people with disabilities to get outside.
