Outdoors
Application period open for crop loss disaster assistance in 2024: Farmers urged to sign up by the May 4 deadline
N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler announced that the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program is open and accepting online applications through May 4 from farmers who suffered crop losses from Hurricane Helene, Tropical Storm Debby and drought and other weather-related conditions in 2024.
Panthertown Map Association publishes 30th anniversary edition
Panthertown Map Association, the non-profit publishers of Burt Kornegay’s popular map, “A Guide’s Guide to Panthertown,” recently celebrated the publication of the newly revised 30th anniversary edition with a $7,500 donation to Friends of Panthertown.
Central Haywood High School gets new tractor
The Haywood County Farm Bureau Board of Directors is proud to announce the sponsorship of Central Haywood High School’s new tractor. This tractor will be used by Kevin Bailey, Ed.D., Central Haywood High’s agriculture teacher, to improve student understanding of agricultural equipment and give them real-world education and experiences directly related to the agricultural industry.
WCU pitches new ‘Ballparks and Brews Tour’ for alumni, friends
The Western Carolina University Office of Alumni Engagement is stepping up to the plate and taking a swing at a new summer event designed to bring together members of the Catamount family at baseball stadiums across North and South Carolina.
Join Franklin Bird club for Macon County walks
The Franklin Bird Club leads walks along the Greenway on Wednesday mornings at 8 a.m. through September. Walks start at alternating locations: Macon County Public Library, Big Bear Park and Salali Lane.
Debris removal begins along Pigeon River
Equipment and personnel have arrived in Haywood County to begin removing debris at 22 sites along the Pigeon River.
The initial focus of the debris removal will be on things like downed trees, appliances and vehicles that, if dislodged and sent downstream, could cause further catastrophic damage.
Smokies to reopen portions of The Cataloochee Valley April 4
On April 4 by noon, the National Park Service (NPS) will reopen portions of Cataloochee Valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cataloochee Valley has been closed since September 2024 following significant damage from Hurricane Helene. Within the park, Cataloochee Valley saw the worst impacts from Hurricane Helene.
The Cradle of Forestry to reopen
FIND Outdoors is excited to announce the seasonal reopening of the Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah National Forest on April 5. This historic site, often referred to as the birthplace of modern forestry in America, continues to serve as a hub for conservation education and outdoor experiences.
Opening day attendees will enjoy complimentary admission and programming throughout the day, including:
10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. — Character Meet & Greets
11 a.m. — Book signing and reading with Carolyn Bennett Fraise, the author of “MOON TREE: The Story of One Extraordinary Tree”
1-2 p.m. — Up Close Encounter with Birds of Prey
• Jeff Curtis presents an exciting falconry demonstration featuring majestic birds of prey. Get up close to these incredible birds and learn about their role in the ecosystem.
3-4 p.m. — Fur, Feathers and Scales
• The WNC Nature Center brings an exciting educational presentation featuring animals with fur, feathers and scales. Meet live animals and learn how they adapt to their environments.
Guided tours of the Biltmore Campus Trail and Forest Festival Trail will also be available.
Admission:
$10/adult (13+)
$5/child (4–12)
$5/Federal Passholder
Season Passes to the Cradle of Forestry are also available for $35/individual or $55/family and include:
• Regular admission to the Cradle of Forestry during the season
• 15% discount at the Cradle of Forestry Gift Shop
• Half-off admission for special programs/events offered throughout the season
For more information, visit gofindoutdoors.org/sites/cradle-of-forestry.
Repair homes now before bat pupping season
N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) recommends that homeowners check now for bats that may be getting into their home and evict them responsibly before pup-rearing season begins on May 1.
