Outdoors
NCDA&CS Agronomic Services laboratory fees increasing
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Agronomic Services Lab will raise some of its testing fees beginning March 2, with most increases ranging from $3 to $5 depending on test.
Soil testing will remain free for North Carolina residents outside the peak season which runs late November or early December through March. In the fall of 2026, the peak-season rate will increase from $4 to $5 per sample.
‘Kitchen table’ idea takes flight in Pigeon River Gorge
NCDOT partners with wildlife agencies on creative concept for bat habitat. Sometimes, it helps to step away from the workplace to get the creativity flowing. That’s what happened to Kenny McCourt, an N.C. Department of Transportation resident engineer overseeing a set of bridge replacement projects on Interstate 40 in Haywood County.
Fly-tying class in Haywood
The Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department will host expert fly-tying instructors from the Cataloochee Chapter of Trout Unlimited and conduct an “Introduction to Fly Tying” class on three evenings in February. Intended for first-time fly tyers wanting to learn the basics, the class will also appeal to crafters seeking a challenge, as well as to anglers looking to get some expert tips.
Lake Junaluska hosts annual cleanup day
Join the fun and the community at Lake Junaluska Cleanup Day held from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at Lake Junaluska.
The cleanup will focus on clearing debris that has collected along the shorelines of and entrance roadways to Lake Junaluska. Volunteers should dress accordingly for the weather and potentially muddy conditions. All work will be done outside, rain or shine.
Jackson County to offer birding class
Jackson County Recreation is hosting a class for those wishing to learn more about birding.
The class will be provide an interactive presentation, and prior experience isn’t necessary. Those who participate will learn about the “four keys to bird identification” and how to recognize species unique to the region.
Learn how to plan your vegetable garden
People new to vegetable gardening and folks looking for a refresher to hone those skills can learn from a master gardener next week.
Topics covered in the class will include starting a new garden, planning a garden for spring and fall planting, following a garden calendar, improving soil and composting. The class will involve both lectures and hands-on demonstrations.
Johnson City historic site hosts Maple Syrup Festival
The Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site in Johnson City, Tennessee will host its 23rd Annual Maple Syrup Festival and pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14.
Come out to Tipton-Haynes to discover the history, lore and method of making maple syrup.
Business of Farming Conference comes to Asheville
The 23rd annual Business of Farming Conference, presented by the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 28, at A-B Tech Conference Center in Asheville. The conference offers beginning and established farmers financial, legal, operational and marketing tools to improve farm businesses and make professional connections.
Raccoon Creek Bike Park nears completion
The Raccoon Creek Bike Park remains closed to the public as construction continues on the site, which is still an active work zone. Haywood County officials appreciate the community’s patience as work moves forward on the project and is anticipated to open in Summer 2026.
Once complete, the Raccoon Creek Bike Park will be a family-friendly outdoor amenity designed to serve riders of all ages and skill levels. The park will provide a safe and welcoming space for recreation, skill development and community programming.
