Outdoors
Volunteers beautify Franklin’s Women’s History Park
On June 26, the Folk Heritage Association/Women’s History Trail completed the final stages to beautify the town’s Women’s History Park.
In March 2024, FHAMC and the Town of Franklin opened the park.
NC Forest Service tree seedlings on sale
The N.C. Forest Service began accepting orders July 1 for its annual tree seedling sale. With an average annual production of 10 million seedlings, the NCFS Nursery Program produces enough native and genetically improved tree seedlings to plant roughly 18,700 acres of land.
NCDEQ Division of Water Resources urges caution around discolored water
Amid summer’s high temperatures, the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources reminds the public to avoid contact with discolored water that could indicate the presence of an algal bloom.
Adult kickball league begins in Jackson County
Registration has started for an adult kickball league in Jackson County.
Participants must be at least 14 years old to participate. The team fee is $150, and games are played Wednesday nights in Cullowhee starting Aug. 6.
North Carolina Arboretum unveils new “Trolls: a Field Study” exhibit
The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville announced the arrival of “Trolls: A Field Study.” Visiting on their first North American excursion, these 12 interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.
‘George Masa: A Life Reimagined’ wins two regional awards
“George Masa: A Life Reimagined,” was recently recognized with two regional awards: the 2024 North Caroliniana Society Book Award and a 2025 Award of Excellence from the East Tennessee Historical Society. Both organizations praised the book for its contributions to cultural and historical interpretation in their respective states.
Trout jeopardized by unauthorized stocking and relocation
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission asks the public to refrain from the illegal practice of moving inland fish, specifically mountain trout, to other mountain water bodies as it can result in altering healthy habitats and negatively impact the agency’s ongoing aquatic conservation efforts.
Discussion on native species coming to Highlands
The Highlands Biological Foundation is excited to continue its 2025 Zahner Conservation Lecture Series with Sonya Carpenter, Co-founder and President of Co-habitate Inc., presenting “Cohabitate; Living with Nature” at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, at the Highlands Nature Center in Highlands. The program is free and open to the public, with a small reception to follow.
Decorate Proctor, Bradshaw cemeteries
On Sunday, July 6, with the cooperation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the North Shore Cemetery Association will host decorations at Proctor and Bradshaw cemeteries.
