The EENC members in the West have shown remarkable resilience post Hurricane Helene. Though there have been setbacks, environmental education programs continue to thrive, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and education. Environmental educators are still here, adapting to new circumstances and finding creative ways to engage communities in the wake of such challenges. There is a strong desire to make it work, with educators and organizations all working together to overcome obstacles and ensure that environmental education remains a priority. There is also an ongoing effort to connect with others, building networks and partnerships for a more sustainable and informed future. Here are some updates from a few of our members in Western North Carolina.
The Nature Center has been able to host satellite events as they rebuild their campus. They have scheduled events such as a Howl-O-Ween costume contest and a night time Wolf Howl, where adults are welcomed to the Nature Center after hours to learn about Red and Gray Wolves of North America! They will also be hosting a Critter Check-Up on December 7th where your plush animals can be brought to the Nature Center to receive its yearly check-up!
The Arboretum has welcomed guests back! On October 28, the arboretum opened their Formal Gardens, Bonsai Exhibit Garden, Education Center, and Baker Exhibit Center. They will also be putting on their famous Winter Lights! Starting November 15th through December 31, you'll be able to walk through a bright winter wonderland!
Being in Asheville’s River Arts District, RiverLink was hit particularly hard, losing many of their educational supplies and their fleet of vehicles. Since Hurricane Helene, RiverLink has been busy hosting river clean ups and educating the community on ways to mitigate rain runoff. With schools now open, they are getting back youth-focused events, placing priority on rebuilding relationships to rivers.
Each of these organizations still have serious needs to be met. We’d like to give a special shout out to our members who are educators at Chimney Rock State Park, Grandfather Mountain, and Buncombe County Soil and Water who are working tirelessly within their communities to stay connected while they rebuild. Please consider taking a look at all of these websites to see how we can continue to support them.
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