NPS issues decision on Gatlinburg Spur improvements

The National Park Service issued a decision and a Finding of No Significant Impact for the Gatlinburg Spur Improvements Environmental Assessment.

Venus flytrap will not be listed as threatened or endangered

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided not to pursue listing the Venus flytrap as a threatened or endangered species after an evaluation determined that, due to current protections and active management, populations are likely to remain stable into the future. 

Land trusts work to protect Brushy Mountains

A pair of land trusts has worked together to permanently protect 1,125 acres spanning parts of Wilkes, Alexander and Iredell counties.

Plastics everywhere — should we be worried?

A baby whale washed up on a beach. Eighty-eight pounds of plastics were found in its stomach. Should we care? 

Haywood group campaigns to phase out single-use plastics

The Environmental Action Community of WNC is celebrating Plastic-Free July with an initiative encouraging all Haywood County restaurants, cafes and coffee shops to phase out single-use plastic items like straws, takeout containers, utensils and condiment packages.

What’s left behind: Canton mill closure leaves complex environmental footprint

The paper mill has been closed for years now, but the cleanup is ongoing.

Get the scoop on septic systems

Learn more about septic systems during an event 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, June 5, at the Haywood County Agricultural Service Center on Raccoon Road in Waynesville.

Sierra Club program to contemplate the future of the French Broad

A lively conversation on the history of the French Broad River corridor’s transformation — as well as the opportunities and challenges facing the watershed today — will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 7, at Manheimer Auditorium at University of North Carolina Asheville, and over Zoom.

Comment deadline extended for Laurel Falls EA

The deadline for public comments on an Environmental Assessment examining the impact of proposed changes associated with the Laurel Falls Trail Management Plan has been extended through Sunday, June 4.

Highlands Biological invests in undergrad field work program

Since 2021, the Highlands Biological Foundation has invested $300,000 in its University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Highlands Field Site Program.

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