Outdoors
Wildlife commission to open trout waters
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission will open approximately 1,000 miles of Hatchery Supported Trout Waters at 7 a.m. April 6. The season will run through Feb. 28, 2025.
Now is a great time to submit soil samples
Experts are using the spring weather to remind people to test their soil if that has not been done in the last two to three years.
Hear about ‘Survival Tricks of the Trail’
Award winning author Mark Warren will discuss his book, “Survival Tricks of the Trail,” at 6 p.m. on April 11 at the Macon County Public Library on Siler Farm Road in Franklin.
NOC to open high-end bungalow accommodations
The Nantahala Outdoor Center unveiled its newest lodging, The Hemlocks by NOC.
Panthertown friends hiring public engagement position
Friends of Panthertown is hiring a part-time trails and stewardship assistant.
Word from the Smokies: 'Gradient of spring' offers opportunity for exploration
By the third week of April, spring is in full bloom throughout the picturesque valleys of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Orchid Festival comes to WNC
The Western North Carolina Orchid Society (WNCOS) and The North Carolina Arboretum will host the 23rd Asheville Orchid Festival entitled “House of Orchids.”
Group limits for Whiteoak Sink
Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials have announced group size limits for the popular wildflower season at Whiteoak Sink.
DEQ reminds everyone that burning trash is illegal
The open burning of trash, metal, plastic and all other man-made materials not only harms the environment and poses a public health risk, it’s against state law.
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality is reminding North Carolinians that “If it doesn’t grow, don’t burn it.”
Open burning is only allowed in limited circumstances and only for vegetative materials like leaves, limbs and yard debris.
In addition, DEQ is reminding people that careless debris burning is the leading cause of wildfires in North Carolina. The N.C. Forest Service may require an open burning permit before certain fires are lit, including fires in protected areas.