Asheville, NC, August 6, 2025
News Summary
RiverLink, a local conservation group in Asheville, has been awarded a $20,000 grant to restore native river cane at three riverside parks. This initiative aims to address the 90% decline of this crucial species, essential for ecology and local Cherokee artisans. Additionally, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has revised the trout stocking schedule due to damage from Tropical Storm Helene, impacting 14 sites. This collective effort reflects the community’s commitment to environmental restoration amidst ongoing challenges.
Asheville, North Carolina – A local conservation group, RiverLink, has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation to restore native river cane in the region. The funding will be dedicated to planting native river cane at three riverside parks, addressing the rapid decline of this native species.
Native river cane, one of the few species of bamboo found in the western North Carolina mountains, has seen its population decrease by 90%. This significant loss has led to increased vulnerability of stream and riverbanks to erosion, threatening environmental stability in the area. The situation has worsened due to damage incurred from Tropical Storm Helene, which exacerbated the loss of river cane.
As part of its restoration efforts, RiverLink plans to plant between 600 to 1,200 feet of native river cane. This plant not only plays an important ecological role but is also a critical resource for Cherokee artisans who rely on it for traditional basket making and other cultural items.
In response to the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has also revised its spring and summer trout stocking schedule. The storm caused inaccessibility at numerous trout stocking locations, resulting in 14 sites being marked as unavailable for stocking. The updated trout stocking list includes specific details regarding Delayed Harvest and Hatchery Supported locations, and an online map has been updated to reflect the changes.
Following thorough assessments of the affected areas, steps are being taken to determine the safety of locations before conducting further stocking operations. The fall Delayed Harvest schedule is expected to be released in July, pending the outcome of these assessments.
In addition to environmental issues, local news reports have indicated a variety of ongoing matters in the Asheville area. Recently, a tree fell on an ART bus in West Asheville, resulting in injuries and downed power lines. Furthermore, public health officials reported a confirmed case of TB in Jackson County involving an infectious individual. As the community prepares for the upcoming school year beginning on August 25, families are busy organizing back-to-school activities.
This confluence of events highlights both the challenges facing Asheville from natural disasters and the commitment of local organizations to address environmental restoration. RiverLink’s initiative represents a significant effort to bring back the native river cane, which is vital for both ecology and cultural traditions in the area.
FAQ
What is native river cane?
Native river cane is one of the few types of bamboo found in the western North Carolina mountains, providing essential resources for the ecosystem and local artisans.
Why has the river cane population declined?
The river cane population has decreased by 90% due to various environmental factors, including erosion and damage from storms such as Tropical Storm Helene.
What will the grant received by RiverLink be used for?
The $20,000 grant will be used to plant native river cane at three parks along riversides in Asheville, helping restore this critical species.
How many feet of river cane does RiverLink plan to plant?
RiverLink aims to plant between 600 to 1,200 feet of native river cane as part of their restoration efforts.
What changes have been made to the trout stocking schedule?
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission revised the trout stocking schedule due to Tropical Storm Helene, affecting 14 sites currently unavailable for stocking.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $20,000 |
| Restoration Length | 600 to 1,200 feet |
| River Cane Population Loss | 90% |
| Impacted Trout Sites | 14 |
| School Year Start Date | August 25 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Interstate 40 Closed Again in Western North Carolina
Asheville Revitalizes Tourism with the Return of Blue Ghost Fireflies
Asheville Parks Reopen Following Hurricane Helene Damage
Norfolk Southern Restores Freight Rail Service to Asheville
Asheville Parks Reopen After Hurricane Helene Damage
I-40 to Reopen in Stages After Hurricane Helene’s Flooding
Buncombe County Schools Face Significant Budget Cuts
I-40 West Closure for Bridge Rehabilitation in Asheville
Bus Service Resumes on Swannanoa River Road in Asheville
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Local Conservation Group Receives Grant
- Mountain X: River Cane’s Promise for Stream Protection
- 828 News Now: Revised Trout Stocking Schedule
- NY Times: Hurricane Helene Impact on Asheville Arts District
- WSOC TV: Supplies Arriving in Tiny NC Mountain Towns
- Wikipedia: River Cane
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
