Protect. Conserve. Restore.

The Swannanoa Valley has long been a place of extraordinary natural and cultural significance. For thousands of years, this valley was home to Indigenous peoples, including the Cherokee and earlier Mississippian cultures, who established permanent settlements here and lived in close relationship with the land, rivers, and wildlife. That deep connection between people and nature continues to shape the Valley’s identity today.

In September 2024, Tropical Storm Helene brought devastating flooding to the Swannanoa Valley, severely impacting wildlife and the habitats they depend on. Floodwaters triggered numerous landslides, altered the course of rivers and streams, and damaged large areas of forest, wetlands, and bogs. The force of the water eroded riverbanks and streambeds, stripping away vegetation essential for water quality and wildlife shelter. Sensitive wetlands were inundated with sediment, gravel, and man-made debris, further stressing already fragile ecosystems.

Aquatic habitats were especially hard hit. Species such as trout, amphibians including the endangered Eastern hellbender, and countless smaller aquatic organisms—snails, insects, crayfish, and insects—experienced major disruption. Terrestrial wildlife also faced serious challenges: animals were displaced from their home ranges, ground-nesting birds lost their nests, and foraging patterns were significantly altered. Damage to bridges, roads, and riverside structures created additional barriers to wildlife movement; bats, for example, often rely on bridges for roosting.

Beyond the immediate impacts, the flooding raised serious long-term concerns. These include the pace and success of habitat recovery, the survival of sensitive and endangered species, increased risks of future flooding due to unstable riverbanks, and the potential ecological harm that can occur if debris-removal efforts are not carefully planned and managed.

In response to these challenges, the North Carolina Wildlife Federation invited community members in March 2025 to form a local chapter dedicated to protecting and restoring wildlife and habitat in the Swannanoa Valley. The response was immediate. Several local leaders—many of whom had envisioned creating such a chapter for years—stepped forward to help turn concern into action.

This effort led to the formation of Swannanoa Valley WILD, a local chapter committed to protecting, conserving, and restoring wildlife and habitat throughout the Valley. The chapter brings people together through hands-on restoration projects, opportunities to connect with nature, and educational programs focused on the region’s wildlife, waterways, and ecosystems.

Mission and Activities

Focus: To conserve wildlife and its habitat in the Swannanoa Valley area.

Activities: Organizes a variety of events such as:
1) Wildlife habitat restoration projects, like installing pollinator gardens at the Swannanoa Public Library and working at Lake Tomahawk, as shown our their Facebook page.
2) Educational programs, including nature journaling workshops.
3) Community gatherings and social events.

Partnerships: Collaborates with other organizations, including the Friends of Fox Creek Park and the Hemlock Restoration Initiative, to achieve its conservation goals.

How to get involved

Follow on social media! Check their Facebook page for announcements on upcoming events and activities.
Attend events: Participate in their public events, such as walks, workshops, and workdays.
Explore NCWF resources: Visit the North Carolina Wildlife Federation website to learn more about other chapters and events.