Outdoors
Cashing in on adventure: Outdoor recreation economy launches strong pandemic rebound
New data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis show that 2021 was a year of growth for the outdoor economy in North Carolina — but that the industry is still working to make up ground it lost during the pandemic.
Forest conservation advocates honored
Winners of EcoForesters’ Annual Awards were announced this month, celebrating achievement in ecological forestry and highlighting important issues that the region’s forest face — and the people making a difference.
Joyce Kilmer trail reopens
The Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail in Graham County is reopen after more than two years of closure.
Cherokee women honored for name restoration efforts
Tribal members Lavita Hill and Mary Crowe have received an Attorney General’s Dogwood Award from N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein for their work to restore the traditional Cherokee name to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Trail turkey: Thanksgiving feast brings Appalachian Trail family together
Twenty-two years ago, Janet Hensley, now 59, was working in guest services at a new hotel in her hometown of Erwin, Tennessee.
Smokies to repair 19 bridge locations
Work has started on a $1.3 million effort to repair bridges at 19 locations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with construction to continue through August 2023.
East Street Park stream project complete
A project to improve a tributary to Shelton Branch that runs through East Street Park in Waynesville is now complete. Through the project, the stream was relocated and raised up in order to address erosion and protect town utility infrastructure. Meanwhile, the stream corridor through the park was improved for public enjoyment.
Santa to visit Chimney Rock
Old Saint Nick will visit Chimney Rock State Park in Rutherford County Saturdays, Dec. 3 and 10, for the 25th year running practicing his chimney-climbing game on the iconic rock as Christmas festivities abound.
Notes from a plant nerd: Pushing Leaves
Every year, the fallen leaves blanket the forest floor in the fall. And every spring the wildflowers have no trouble pushing up through them to bloom.
