Initial Response
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused damage and devastation throughout western North Carolina – including the Pisgah Ranger District.
In the first few weeks after the storm, The Pisgah Conservancy’s field staff worked alongside the Forest Service and disaster response agencies to clear downed trees from Forest Service roads, allowing emergency vehicles and local residents to access key areas.
After the initial response, our staff continued working to clear downed trees from trails and to assist the Forest Service with assessing the damage to trails, roads, and other infrastructure.
Road to Recovery
After the damage assessments were completed, we shifted our focus to the long-term recovery work that lay ahead.
We are continuing to support Pisgah’s recovery by:
- Repairing damaged trails
- Rebuilding damaged trail bridges
- Managing the increased spread of invasive plants with a significant focus on preventing and monitoring infestations at major Helene recovery project sites
- Stabilizing slides and stream banks
Success Stories
This directory highlights some of our major Helene Recovery work. It will be updated regularly as current projects are completed and as new projects are implemented.
For a full overview of our major program and project accomplishments through the years, please visit the Success Stories directory.
Upcoming
- Helene Recovery, Recreation Support, Watershed Improvement
In-Progress
- Habitat Improvement, Helene Recovery, Recreation Support
In-Progress
- Habitat Improvement, Helene Recovery, Invasive Plant Removal, Recreation Support, Watershed Improvement
