Resilience in Asheville: Nature Center Rises After Hurricane Helene

Asheville, NC

As the winds howled and the rains poured down, residents of Asheville braced themselves for the impact of Hurricane Helene. The Western North Carolina Nature Center, nestled near the banks of the Swannanoa River, faced a daunting task of ensuring the safety of its diverse collection of wildlife amidst the chaos. With over 60 species of Appalachian animals under their care, the dedicated animal care team had to think on their feet to keep both the animals and their habitats secure.

Safety First!

In the heart of the storm, the staff made the tough decision to shelter most animals in place. Each habitat was thoughtfully secured to withstand the hurricane’s fury. Thankfully, despite some damages such as downed fences, no animals escaped! The team quickly relocated sensitive creatures, moving some to cozy indoor holding areas and transferring others, like the fascinating hellbender salamander, to the safety of the Appalachian Wildlife Refuge.

After the Storm

Despite the intensity of the storm, the Nature Center was lucky. The morning after Helene’s rampage, staff members returned to find all of the animals safely accounted for. Damage to the habitats was minimal, but the storm had washed away the main bridge leading to the Center! However, thanks to their neighbor, Highland Brewery, access was restored, and the crew could start working on recovery immediately. The first priority? Setting up generators and making sure there was potable water for both humans and animals.

Community Support

The goodwill of the community shone bright in the wake of the disaster. The Appalachian Wildlife Refuge was quick to respond, arriving with much-needed food for both animals and staff. But that was just the beginning! Zoos across the region reached out, offering their assistance. The North Carolina Zoo, the Knoxville Zoo, and many others sent teams of arborists, welders, and support staff to assist in rebuilding efforts.

A Rich History & Exciting Future

The WNC Nature Center itself has been a cherished destination since it opened its doors in 1977. Spanning 42 acres, the Center showcases the unique wildlife of the Southern Appalachian region, offering residents and visitors the chance to get up close and personal with remarkable animals. From adorable red pandas named Leafa and Phoenix to the majestic cougars and wolves, it has always been a joy for families. And there’s even more excitement on the horizon, as in the past ten months, nearly twenty new animals have joined the ranks!

Upcoming Events to Look Forward To

As part of their commitment to engaging the community, the Nature Center plans events throughout the year. One such fun opportunity is the upcoming Critter Checkup on December 7th, where kids can bring their favorite stuffed animals for a check-up with a veterinarian! Fun games will also be part of this delightful morning, ensuring families have something special to look forward to.

A Community United

Despite the chaos caused by Hurricane Helene, the staff remains optimistic. “While we have made incredible progress, there are still challenges ahead,” shared Chris Gentile, the Director. “The timeline for fully restoring access is still blurry, but we’re determined to find solutions to welcome visitors back ASAP.”

Generous contributions are pouring in to help with recovery efforts, and excitingly, donations are being matched by local champions for wildlife. For those eager to support rehabilitation and ensure the Nature Center’s continued success, options abound to contribute.

As Asheville and its iconic Nature Center continue to rebuild, the resilience and determination of the dedicated staff alongside the support of the community shine brighter than ever!