Hurricane Helene Causes Disruption at North Carolina Arboretum, Community Rallies for Recovery

Hurricane Helene Leaves a Mark on Asheville’s North Carolina Arboretum

Asheville, NC – The serene beauty of the North Carolina Arboretum has been temporarily disrupted, as the popular nature hotspot deals with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The Arboretum is currently closed to the public to allow staff to assess and address damage. Everyone here understands that safety and enjoyment are of the utmost importance for this treasured community resource.

A Community Coming Together

“We hope to continue being a refuge for our neighbors, a place where they can connect to nature and find tranquility,” said Drake Fowler, the Executive Director. As part of their recovery efforts, the Arboretum staff has received strong support from important figures, including UNC System President Peter Hans and his executive team, who have been right there to lend a hand through these tough times.

Community support has poured in from various fronts—thank you to our Emergency Responders, Duke Power, the US Forest Service, and all of the local officials and municipalities who have stepped up to the plate during this crisis. The vigilance and hard work of these dedicated professionals are heartwarming in such trying times.

Damage Assessment Underway

Fortunately, the buildings and formal gardens at the Arboretum have managed to escape significant structural damage. However, the sprawling trails and forest areas suffered a heavy blow, with estimates suggesting that up to 2,000 trees have been damaged or uprooted. For those who love visiting the Arboretum, it’s crucial to remember that many trails are far from safe to access at this point.

The Arboretum is kindly asking the public to refrain from walking or biking onto the campus or trails while they better assess the hazards. “Your safety is our priority,” they stress, urging everyone to stay tuned for updates on their reopening.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, the Arboretum is optimistic and looking toward its much-loved 11th Annual Winter Lights event, which is set to run from November 15 through December 31. Though ticket sales, originally intended to start on October 1, have been postponed, updates and further details will be provided at ncwinterlights.com and the Arboretum’s website.

As we reflect on the impact of Hurricane Helene, it’s a moment of sobering realization about the importance of community. It reminds us all how vital it is to check on friends and neighbors during challenging times and to acknowledge the incredible service of our first responders, the National Guard, and various relief organizations working tirelessly to provide support.

The Beauty of Resilience

The North Carolina Arboretum has always been a shining gem, making nature accessible and enjoyable for everyone. As the staff and board work diligently in this recovery phase, there exists a palpable sense of hope and anticipation for the return of the vibrant flora and peaceful trails that so many of us cherish. The message is clear: as we collectively overcome this setback, the Arboretum aims to reopen its doors with even more spectacular experiences for everyone.

So, whether you’re a long-time member, a local resident, or a curious traveler, remember to stay tuned for the latest updates on the Arboretum’s reopening through its Facebook and Instagram pages. And most importantly, take care of each other as we navigate through these challenging times. Nature awaits us, ready to welcome us back, stronger than before.