AppalachianThe

August / September 2012 Voice

Changing Currents Navigating the Demands on Our Water in an Increasingly Thirsty World Hidden Also Inside: The Mighty Mussel • A Cold Summer for Coal • Blueberry Years Treasures Special Insert Part 2 The Appalachian Voice cross Appalachia A publication of A Environmental News From Around the Region AppalachianVoices A Note from our Executive Director 171 Grand Blvd • Boone, NC 28607 Dear Readers, 828-262-1500 Partnerships Protect Western North Carolina’s Rare Aquatic Ecosystems www.AppalachianVoices.org Clean water is as American as apple pie — and it takes a By Brian Sewell 90 low-elevation seeps, 20 the north and west of the Box Creek [email protected] lot of water to grow an apple. I prefer that water to be clean. identified rare vegetation Wilderness, a project proposed by the ditor Jamie Goodman But dirty industries and their friends in Congress continue to Public and private groups E ...... communities, and more U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service seeks Managing Editor...... Brian Sewell put that basic right at risk. working together to protect land in than 80 Natural Heritage to protect some of the last remaining Associate Editor...... Molly Moore Western North Carolina are mak- Why would anyone purposefully threaten one of the most Program Rare and Watch examples of Southern Appalachian Distribution Manager...... Maeve Gould ing sure that the region’s aquatic Graphic Designer...... Meghan Darst basic requirements for life? List species. bogs, isolated wetlands scattered across ecosystems and the rare plants Lead Editorial Assistant...... Jessica Kennedy In a time when it is Western North Carolina that are biodi- The likely answer is profit. Mining companies spend mil- and animals found in them are also Online & Communications Assistant...... Anna Norwood difficult to find public verse hotspots. lions each year lobbying in our state legislatures and on Capitol preserved. funds for land protection, According to the FWS, mountain Hill for the “right” to use Appalachia’s streams as dumps. But The Box Creek Wilderness, DISTRIBUTION VOLUNTEERS: Alison Auciello, Heather Baker, Becky valley fills related to mountaintop removal mining aren’t the The South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander is a Globally Critically Susie Hamrick-Jones, bogs provide food and shelter for game Barlow, Jere Bidwell, Blue Smoke Coffee, Rebecca Booher, Charlie Bowles, a newly designated state Sig- only danger. The injection of coal slurry underground and in surface impoundments and coal Imperiled species found in Box Creek Wilderness and is one of several Foothills Conservancy’s birds such as rails, ruffed grouse, turkey, Cindy Bowles, Lynn Brammer, Jane Branham, Steve Brooks, Carmen Cantrell, nificant Natural Heritage Area, local species which occur nowhere else in the world. Photo Courtesy of executive director, praises and wood duck, and serve as breeding Alex Carll, Charlie Chakales, Shay Clanton, Chris Clark, Patty Clemens, ash disposal also pose massive threats to groundwater. encompasses 3,300 acres along the Theresa Crush-Warren, Beth Davis, Detta Davis, Deborah Deatherage, Lowell Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina the foresight of landown- habitat for many species of amphibians, Thanks largely to efforts by Appalachian Voices and our partners in The Alliance for Ap- McDowell-Rutherford county line. Dodge, Nels Erickson, Lauren Essick, Emma Ford, Dave Gilliam, Scott Goebel, ers like Tim Sweeney, the especially salamanders, of which the Lisa Goodpaster, Bruce Gould, Michael Grantz, Gary Greer, Kelly Griffin, Tim palachia, the congressional representatives of more than 85 million Americans have signed on Collaboration between a conser- cheeked salamander and Broad River CEO of Epic Games in Cary, N.C., who Southern Appalachians have the great- Guilfoile, Sharon Hart, Susan Hazlewood, Cary and Karen Huffman, Tim Huntley, as cosponsors of the Clean Water Protection Act, legislation designed to protect our waterways vation-minded landowner, Foothills stream crayfish, and serves as corridor owns the Box Creek Wilderness tract. est diversity in the nation. Pamela Johnston, Mary K., Amelia Kirby, Rose Koontz, Frances Lamberts, from mining waste by restoring the language of the Clean Water Act. Appalachian Voices is Conservancy of North Carolina, and for migratory birds. Justin Laughlin, Carissa Lenfert, Sean Levenson, Susan Lewis, Loy Lilley, “Tim’s a great example for other Where it is feasible, the FWS will al- also taking the lead in holding coal companies legally accountable for routinely and flagrantly the N.C. Department of Environment Perennial streams lace the tract, Debra Locher, Joy Lourie, Gail Marney, Lee Martin, Mast General Store, Kathy landowners,” Jones said. “He saw op- low wildlife observation, photography, McClory, Kim Greene McClure, Jay McCoy, Rich McDonough, Mike McKinney, violating the laws that protect our waters. and Natural Resources’ Natural Heri- including Box Creek, a primary tribu- portunity in our area and understood education, and interpretation in bog Steve Moeller, Dave and Donna Muhly, Dennis Murphy, Catherine Murray, Cabell tage Program led to the private tract’s tary of the Second Broad River which Neterer, Dave Patrick, Janet Perry, Bronwyn Reece, Martin Richards, Carol We don’t do this for profit. We do it to ensure that Appalachian families have the right to the value of the lands that we’ve been areas currently closed to the public. The protection. supplies drinking water to residents Rollman, Kristin Rouse, Vicki Ryder, Debbie Samuels, Steve Scarborough, Gerry clean water, now and in the future. You can help us achieve that goal. Become a member of looking at for so long.” agency has already reached out to pri- and Joe Scardo, Craig Schenker, Kathy Selvage, Brenda Sigmon, Leah Smith, A Morganton-based land trust, of Rutherford County before joining Appalachian Voices today. Help us win. Jones said that most conservation vate landowners who have expressed Sarah Smith, Jennifer Stertzer, Mike Wade, Nora Walbourn, Bill Wasserman, Jim Foothills Conservancy identified the the Broad River as it flows into South Webb, Dean Whitworth, Amy Wickham, Graham Williams, Barbara Williamson, occurs on private land and that govern- interest in protection efforts. For the mountains and rivers, value of the area long ago. Serving as Carolina. Diana Withen, Gabrielle Zeiger, Ray Zimmerman ment and non-profit funds cannot per- For more information visit foot- Willa Mays an ecological bridge between North According to ecologists Kevin Printed on 100% recycled newsprint, cover 40% recycled paper, all soy-based inks manently protect all of North Carolina’s hillsconservancy.org and fws.gov/ Carolina’s Mountain and Piedmont Caldwell and Lloyd Raleigh, the Box important natural areas. southeast/mountainbogs. regions, the area harbors a number of Creek Wilderness contains more than In the mountainous counties to imperiled species, including the gray- 30 miles of perennial streams, at least 2nd Edition Inside this issue Regulars t’s becoming Recognizing Renewable Opportunities Support for Livable Communities $204 million each year in pollution removal and $18.4 Managing Iincreasingly clear that Changing Kentucky could realize 34 percent of its energy In conjunction with the U.S. Environmental Pro- million in annual additional carbon sequestration. Across Appalachia . . . . . 3-4 we should be worried demand from renewable sources by 2025, a new study tection Agency and U.S. Department of Agriculture Comparing the value of summertime shade to the your Hiking the Highlands. . . . . 6 about water. In this Currents shows. Authored by West Virginia-based Downstream Rural Development, the Appalachian Regional Com- inconvenience of winter shade, researchers revealed issue we navigate the Strategies and Kentucky-based Mountain Association mission announced federal technical assistance aimed that trees provide a net energy savings benefit of $66 Naturalist’s Notebook. . . . .7 narratives surrounding how we use and for Community Economic Development, the report at helping seven Appalachian communities achieve million. Woodlands This Green House...... 16 abuse this most fundamental human need. found that solar photovoltaic and combined heat and the goals of a “livable community.” ARC defines a ru- Almost Bike-Friendly, West Virginia Coal Report ...... 18 power, the simultaneous generation of mechanical ral “livable community” in Appalachia as a place with A Guide for Southern Extreme Weather, Climate Change and our West Virginia, the state that ranked 48th by the League Opinions and Editorials. . . 20 Relationship to Water...... p. 8 power and thermal energy used for heating and cool- thriving town centers, protected working lands and Appalachian Landowners of American Bicyclists’ for bicycle-”friendliness” this AV Book Club...... 21 The High Cost of Energy on Water...... p. 9 ing, comprise the two greatest sources of undeveloped natural resources, economic opportunities, and afford- year, is implementing a Statewide Bicycle Connectiv- Produced by: Appalachian Voices Inside AV ...... 22 Underground Controversy: Fracking’s Impact...... p. 10 renewable energy in the state. able transportation and housing choices. The grants ity Plan to improve the state’s two-wheeled transpor- The report specifies that while these renewables were awarded to: Connellsville, Penn.; Brownsville, Get Involved!...... 24 Buried Blackwater: Revealing Coal’s Dirty Secret...... p. 10 tation opportunities. Planners hope to connect existing Our handbook on forestry management aren’t able to replace the amount of energy generated Penn.; Uhrichsville, Ohio; Independence, Va.; Spruce Clean Water Warrior: Rick Handshoe...... p. 11 trails among different regions of the state and also gives you the knowledge and resources by centralized fossil fuels, existing resources and tech- Pine, N.C.; Williamson, W.Va.; and Salamanca, N.Y. you need to make smart decisions about ON THE COVER Evolution of a Cattle Farm...... p. 12 provide access to trails in other states. West Virginia your forest and become a better steward nologies would provide enough energy development to Tennessee’s Urban Money Trees currently has 375 miles of former railbed that are of your land. In Search of Healing Waters...... p. 13 provide significant economic and environmental ben- A study by the U.S. Forest Service found that trees converted to bike and pedestrian paths, and more are The Value of Running Water...... p. 14 efits. Among them would be more stable energy prices, Now with a Free DVD “Landowner’s in urban areas of Tennessee contribute a total of $80 planned through this initiative, which is funded by a Guide to sustainable Forestry” fewer subsidies, increased efficiency, and reduced costs federal grant to the state’s Department of Transpor- from the Model Forest Policy Program billion in environmental benefits. By analyzing tree Special Center Pull-Out for infrastructure, pollution control, and new facilities. size and chemical composition, researchers were able tation. The steering committee for the bike plan held During an interview with Kentucky News Connection, to quantify the average amount of carbon storage and public hearings this spring, and the committee’s rec- Hidden 2012 lead study author Rory McIlmoil said that increased its value based on the estimated social costs of carbon ommendations are expected to be released in August. use of distributed renewables would minimize power Find out more about the proposed bike paths and A doe crosses a calm Abrams Creek in Treasures dioxide emissions — over $350 million. Researchers To get your FREE copy: Sign up outages while creating jobs. To read the study, visit the Great Smoky Mountains National also estimated that the urban forest provides over submit comments at transportation.wv.gov at: appvoices.org/reenergizing Park. Photo by Brian Shults, facebook. In part two of our summer guide, we turn to the wet and wild treasures of downstreamstrategies.com/projects.html OR contact: 1-877-APP-VOICE or com/brianshultsphotography Appalachia, seeking the top places to splash, fish, paddle, dip your toes or just [email protected] bask in the glory of a mountain waterfall. Don’t forget your river sandals! August/September 2012 | The Appalachian Voice | Page 3 cross Appalachia A Environmental News From Around the Region North Carolina Lawmakers Fumble Over Fracking Vote By Brian Sewell legalizing fracking, accidentally voted ing the range of residents’ views who appointed to positions meant for con- After Gov. Bev Perdue vetoed a with Republicans to override the veto will develop regulations of fracking servationists by House Speaker Thom controversial bill to legalize hydraulic when she pressed the wrong button. intended to protect North Carolinians’ Tillis. Watchdog groups and concerned fracturing in North Carolina, both the Upon realizing her mistake, Car- health and the environment. Only two residents are calling for Covington’s state Senate and House allowed little ney immediately asked to be allowed of the 15 members of the commission replacement, citing an obvious conflict time for debate before voting to over- to recast her vote. Although allowing are required to have conservation back- of interest. ride the block. lawmakers to change an accidental vote grounds by the bill, but even this simple Considering state lawmakers’ han- In the Republican-led House of is routine practice, the chamber’s rules precept is proving controversial. dling of the process to bring fracking to Representatives, the veto override cre- do not provide members a second vote A red flag was raised when Ray North Carolina so far, some residents ated controversy when it succeeded by if it affects the outcome. Covington, the co-founder of North worry that the state is already putting one mistaken vote. Rep. Becky Carney, The legislature’s next task is to ap- Carolina Oil and Gas, which manages oil and gas interests ahead of their own. a Democrat from Mecklenburg County point the members of the N.C. Mining mineral rights leases for landowners in who had been vocal in her opposition to and Energy Commission represent- return for a share of future profits, was

EPA Mandates Sewage million in sewer system repairs aimed at to divert stormwater runoff, and under- Greenbacks for White Nose Repairs in Chattanooga reducing the amount of untreated, raw take a $800,000 stream restoration to im- White nose syndrome, a disease sewage entering the Tennessee River. prove water quality in a creek tributary. that has killed an estimated 5.5 mil- Following an 18-month lawsuit, The court order also requires Chatta- Customers of the Chattanooga system, lion bats since 2006, is now in 19 states federal regulators have set a 15-year nooga to pay a $476,400 civil penalty, both within and beyond city limits, and four Canadian provinces. In July, deadline for the city of Chattanooga, implement a green infrastructure plan will pay for much of the sewer repairs the Forest Service announced that 30 Tenn., to complete approximately $250 through rate increases. states will receive Endangered Spe- Rare in the Wild But cies Recovery funds to address the problem, totaling nearly $1 million Thriving Online for state natural resource agencies to Finding out which endangered plants fund surveillance and monitoring of and critters live where has never been caves and mines where bats hibernate. easier. This summer the Fish and Wildlife Appalachian states receiving funding Service launched a nationwide, interactive to fight the disease include Kentucky, online map that allows users to search for Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, endangered wildlife by state, county, and Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. species. The site doesn’t just list plants and White nose syndrome is named for the animals — it provides engaging multime- white fungus that appears on the noses dia that highlights the struggle of species of affected bats, and the disease has like the Kentucky arrow darter or Swamp spread to at least six species. Learn more pink herb, and tells stories about partner- at: whitenosesyndrome.org ship projects and rare endemic species. Visit: fws.gov/endangered ic he M untains Mus from t o Greenlife • Whole Earth Grocery • Dandridge General Store NOC Great Outpost • NOC Wesser General Store Purple Mountain Natural Foods • West Village Market Honeymoon Bakery • Harvest Moon Cafe New Moon Gallery • Candler Park Market • Savi Urban Market

Hand 100% Organic, Fair Trade & Shade Grown Beans Free Roasted Shipping! To Order Order at BlueSmokeCoffee.com Listener-supported radio o ering a diverse mix of music & informative programming for the heart of Appalachia. 10% of Sales Donated to Environmental & Humanitarian Causes Page 4 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 Hiking the Highlands Abrams Falls Trail Naturalist’s Notebook A Jaunt to a Jewel of the Smokies

By Stephen Otis ing what wild en- counter led the good Appalachian Mussels: Our Living Freshwater Filters The Abrams Falls Trail has his- people at Backpacker torical nuances you won’t find just By Jesse Wood from the geological age of the area and sels are food sources for fur-bearing Magazine to put the anywhere. the high number of organisms that have mammals such as muskrats, otters, trail on their list of When settlers first waded through Located in the Cades Cove area of the evolved in the region. raccoons and minks, and if the water perilous paths. Appalachian streams hundreds of years Great Smoky Mountains National Park “The Appalachians as a whole is one flow is low, birds. Maybe it is the ago, freshwater mussels practically in Tennessee, the trail, creek and falls of the greatest bio-diverse areas in the Following a 1998 disaster where strong storm waters paved the riverbeds. are named after a historic leader of the country if not the world, and our aquatic a tanker truck overturned and spilled that often surge over In the early 1900s, the aquatic crea- Cherokee Nation, Chief Abram; a short resources reflect that,” Blount says. 1,350 gallons of rubber accelerant into the nearly 20-foot tures were so abundant that thousands side trail leads to Elijah Oliver’s house, Megan Bradley, the southwest a tributary of the Clinch River, killing falls, the same wa- of pearl hunters flocked to the forks the first settler of Cades Cove circa 1818. Virginia freshwater mussel recovery more than 18,000 mussels, the Aquatic ters that took the life of the Holston and Clinch rivers in It has a reputation in the world coordinator with the Aquatic Wildlife Wildlife Conservation Center was of 19-year-old Wil- Tennessee hoping to strike it rich. Of of adventure as well, earning a spot Conservation Center, attributed Appa- formed. The center, which currently liam Diefenbach in course, the pearl rush didn’t last forever. on Backpacker Magazine’s list of the 10 lachia’s mussel diversity to historically houses 300 adult mussels spanning 22 1993. He was swept When the Tennessee Valley Authority most dangerous hikes in the country. Of Great Smoky Mountains National Park completed the Norris Dam in 1936, the stable streams and river basin isolation. species, focuses on actively propagat- downstream and Flexing our mussels: The inland mussel species of course, if you are a local like me, and Getting There — From Gatlinburg, Tenn.: Enter the park “The habitats had been fairly stable ing mussels to return to regions where drowned trying to downstream mussel population in the Appalachia are unmatched around the world, with you like to hike the trail for its moder- Don’t be fooled by Abrams Falls’ serene and drive west to the Cades Cove Loop. Once on the for a long time [with] a fair amount of they either declined or disappeared ford Newt Prong. Clinch River Valley was decimated. the Tennessee River basin alone containing more ate footpath along the serene Abrams surroundings-this pretty cascade features powerful loop, stop at road marker 10. Turn off the main loop bedrock that kind of keeps the streams completely. Since its formation, thou- onto the gravel road, which leads to signs and a wood- Dams, the introduction of exotic varieties than China and Europe combined. Photo Maybe it is the count- water, and the pool at its base has a reputation for Creek — replete with wild river otter en bridge marking the trailhead. from moving around as much,” Bradley sand of juveniles, ranging in age from courtesy of Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Center less injuries that occur species, and water pollution – includ- and fly-fishing aplenty — you may find an undertow. Photo by Jenny Pansing says. “Some of the diversity comes from one month to nine years old, have been from the young and Length and difficulty — 2.5 miles; moderate; practice ing chemical spills, water treatment yourself scratching your head wonder- waterfall safety the fact that things have been isolated raised by the organization. mussels must use the river current to the bold attempting to certainly. Worth a visit? plants and prior land use upstream, be reproduce. Eventually, the fertilized eggs Website: nps.gov/grsm/index.htm for a long time.” Back in the Big South Fork, Blount jump off the falls’ slippery perch, not Most definitely. it logging, coal mining or agriculture “piggyback,” as Blount explains, to a Info: (865) 436-1200 Currently, sedimentation is the says the number of species has in- noticing the shelf of rock just below the To the falls and back, – have all threatened these filter feed- greatest concern regarding mussel popu- creased by 20 percent in the past five specific host species and live as a parasite surface at the base. Or the copperheads the trail traverses five ers over the past century. According to lations, which prefer flowing water. “We years, with six mussel species added before becoming a juvenile mussel. and moccasins that like to perch in the miles, much of it creek- the Virginia Department of Game and When asked what makes the mus- Scattered with small loop trails and are modifying land adjacent to streams through artificial propagation and re- clefts of the basins. side, providing the sounds Inland Fisheries, seven percent of the sel an amazing creature, Blount spoke split-offs, a backpacker can get lost in so much that it’s leading to a lot of sedi- location. The park is cooperating with Maybe, but all in all, Abrams Falls of mountain water like a constant sym- freshwater mussel fauna in the United of this “adaptive” life-cycle but also here for days. Void of crowds and with ment going into streams, clogging the other agencies in Tennessee, Kentucky is one of the most pristine and beauti- phony. Along the way, there are a bevy States is extinct and another 50 percent mentioned the mussel’s resilient ability many opportunities for bear sightings substrate,” she says. “If mussels are un- and Virginia to maintain a free-flowing ful hikes in the Smokies with one of of places to stop for a picnic or to just require special protection under the U.S. to withstand fluctuating water levels – (and late night visits), quiet adventure der really fine particles, they suffocate.” water system that will keep mussels and the most impressive watering holes step off the trail and search for salaman- Endangered Species Act. from creek-like flows to floods – all the abounds. The park has done a great job The two-part shell creatures are the other organisms from extinction. you will ever see. Of course, the Great ders. The watering hole at the end of the Through all the turmoil, the inland while filtering the water. in clearing good campsites and rigging freshwater equivalent of marine clams The life-cycle of the mussel is “one Smoky Mountain National Park encour- 2.5-mile trek enjoys the constant spray mussel population in the United States In the end, Blount says, mussels be- state-of-the-art bear hangers for food. and oysters. They can be as small as a of the most complex and interesting in ages those who visit to avoid swimming of Abrams Falls. Named after Chief – and Appalachia in particular – is un- long to a diverse ecological community. The trail to Abrams Falls is listed as This is the part of Abrams where you thumbnail or as large as a dinner plate. the animal world,” according to DGIF, for aforementioned reasons. Danger- Oskuah (later changed to Abram) of matched around the world. DGIF esti- If these sensitive freshwater bivalves moderately difficult but includes three narrow will most likely find river otters and Mussels can live to be 100 years old. and this complicates the propagation ous? Maybe, if you’re the kind of person the Cherokee Nation, here the strength mates that nearly one-third of the 1,000 suffer, other species such as fish, insects, log bridges, so the park service recommends very, very nice fish dangling on the end Their longevity makes them good water- process. Instead of seeking out a mate, who attracts danger. Beautiful? Most of these great people who roamed these species of freshwater mussels exist in sturdy hiking shoes. Photo by Kid Cowboy quality indicators, and siphoning actions otters and muskrats will suffer as well. free and sacred lands is preserved. of your spray line. If you wade in these the United States, and Appalachia has a that filter bacteria, algae and other small The drive to the trailhead brings waters, you can see eight-inch rainbow “lion’s share” of this diversity residing in particles make them one of the few ani- you through the historic Cades Cove trout hanging out in the current like the southeastern drainages of the Ohio, mals that improve water quality. • Delicious Deli-Style Loop with wildlife grazing in open they’re having an afternoon meeting. Tennessee, Cumberland and Mobile riv- “They are good indicators [of water Sandwiches valley fields, where deer roam like Three days here, and you will ers. In fact, the Tennessee River basin quality] because they are more sensitive cattle and bear and other wildlife are emerge a better, leaner, more brightly alone has more species than Africa, and than almost anything in the stream,” • Homemade Soups commonly sighted. It is a place stuck in lit man or woman. more than China and Europe combined. Bradley says, adding that mussels are a slow and steady time in our nation’s Stephen Otis is the co-author of “A Tom Blount, the Chief of Resource used by the EPA to set water standards • Vegetarian Fare history, heck, before that even, to a time Road More or Less Traveled,” a narrative Management for the Big South Fork for ammonia. before we started recording time. about hiking the Appalachian Trail from National River and Recreation Area of Mussels are also important because • and Much More! If one is so inclined, the other Maine to Georgia, recently awarded runner- the Cumberland River watershed and as filter feeders, they repack nutri- side of Abrams Falls, although little- up in the New York Book Festival. Read Obed Wild and Scenic River of the Ten- ents for other small organisms in the publicized, is the area’s true beauty. reviews and order the book at Amazon.com. nessee River watershed, said the diverse 240 Shadowline Drive, Boone, North Carolina streams, Bradley says, adding that mus- (828) 262-1250 • www.Peppers-Restaurant.com mussel population of Appalachia stems Page 6 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September 2012 | The Appalachian Voice | Page 7 The High Cost of Energy on Our Water Changing Currents By Jamie Goodman THIRSTY FOR POWER Keeping U.S. power on merican industries are thirsty for fresh water, and Climate Change, Extreme requires 43 billion gallons of freshwater per day — more 1 our electrical generation has by far the biggest cup water than 140 New York Cities would use. Nuclear power use Weather and Our 25 to 60 gallons per kilowatt hour (not including high volumes of to fill. water required for uranium mining and processing), and coal-fired Close to half of the water withdrawn from our Relationship to Water power plants need 20 to 50 gallons of water per kilowatt hour rivers and lakes is destined to cool power plants fueled by coal, (not including high volumes of water used in mining, processing Auranium and natural gas among others. A fair portion of the By Brian Sewell Administration’s and storing coal waste). That means that to power a typical U.S. water siphoned into the plants is “consumed” or evaporates Climatic Data Cen- home for a month, which according to the U.S. Energy Information There is no doubt that we are wor- into thin air. The rest is ejected back into lakes and rivers as ter’s “State of the Administration averages to 958 kilowatt hours, it takes at a minimum 19,160 gallons of ried about water. We accept that, as much as 17˚ F hotter, where it can be detrimental to the ecology Climate” report water per month to keep your lights on. That’s a lot of lawn watering. both a human right and requirement, of the waterway. speaks for itself. any threat to this precious but limited Not all alternative sources are exempt from this enormous According to the other 4% thirst — biofuel, touted as a possible replacement for more pol- liquid deserves our attention. industrial 5% report, in June of Last year, when Gallup conducted Withdrawl Symptoms In the southeast- luting materials, uses almost as much water as coal. But other this year, 170 all- ern United States, power plants account for two-thirds of all renewable energies, including passive solar, wind and even solar its annual poll to gauge Americans’ drinking 2 time high tempera- water withdrawals of freshwater, draining an average of 40 billion gallons of thermal, lack the insatiable thirst of their fossil fuel cousins. foremost environmental fears, nearly 80 13% thermoelectric ture records were water from lakes and rivers every day for purposes such as cooling. percent responded that they are “greatly 41% As drought rages across half of the country this year, and broken or tied — irrigation In many cases, only a fraction of that water will be returned to the many cities have imposed restrictions on lawn watering and car concerned” with the pollution of rivers, some topping 110F. water source, while the plants lose or “consume” large amounts of the lakes and reservoirs, the pollution of 37% washing, the power industry continues to drain adjacent water- By the beginning withdrawn water to evaporation — a typical 600-megawatt coal-fired drinking water, and the maintenance ways. And ironically, coal plants cannot continue to withdraw of July, 56 percent A majority of Americans believe that climate change has contributed to recent extreme weather, such as the destructive power plant consumes more than 2 billion unrecoverable gallons water when hot water ejected from the plant pushes the tempera- of the nation’s supply of freshwater for U.S. freshwater withdrawals of water each year from nearby lakes, rivers, aquifers or oceans. of the United States wind storm known as a “derecho” in June (above). Understanding the links between climate change, extreme weather and ture beyond a certain limit — meaning that power facilities are household needs, compared to only half the threats they pose to freshwater is essential to developing a responsible relationship with our most valuable resource. Power plants account for the largest was suffering from share of freshwater withdrawals in forced to shut down some or all of their output at a time when responding with concern about global Photo courtesy National Weather Service the United States. drought and more warming. But after years of increasingly air conditioning and other needs create the greatest demand. than a dozen states, Colorado, companies that provide water ter is never far away. Listen closely and extreme weather, it’s becoming clear Water pays a steep price to meet our energy demand. Below including Kentucky, Tennessee and for hydraulic fracturing outbid farmers you’ll hear reminders of water’s worth. A large coal or nuclear power how related the two really are. What Goes in... we walk you through five of the highest costs energy exacts on West Virginia continued to see signifi- for water rights traditionally used to ir- station with once-through cooling can easily draw in more Consider one of the many recent an- 3 our water system, using information provided by the Union of cantly below average rainfalls. rigate their fields. As drilling operations than 500 million gallons of water from a river or lake every day. ecdotes of inaction on global warming. In This Issue Concerned Scientists. All in all, the first half of 2012 was and drought-induced demands increase, The consequences on both ends can be dire for wildlife ­— older Just days after the North Carolina state We recognize and respect water’s hotter and drier than any year since there is just not enough to go around. systems can devour aquatic life, sucking in eggs and larvae, and legislature passed a widely mocked role in our lives, and this issue of The HIGH AND DRY Climate change and threats to water trap adult fish and larger wildlife on suction pipe intake screens. weather data was first recorded in 1895. Appalachian Voice is dedicated to just 4Since 2004, drought bill that outlaws the science used to The dozens of power stations that withdraw water from the Great Even if the heat hasn’t kept you indoors, are two sides of one coin that’s spinning stress has led at least a dozen predict future sea level rise, the U.S. that. Beginning on the following page, Lakes for cooling kill an estimated 100 million fish and 1.28 bil- out of control. The side effects of burn- Manatees swim near power plants to temporarily re- the abrupt storms are likely to. read about the impact energy produc- Geological Survey announced that the lion fish larvae annually. intake pipes for a Take the wind storm known as a ing fossil fuels tend to render drinking duce their power output or shut Atlantic coast is disappearing three to tion and extractive industries have on coal plant powering water undrinkable. Sea level rise leads down entirely, and prompted at “derecho” that wreaked hurricane-like water. Travel to Kentucky on p. 11 and ...Comes out HOT After being used to cool the Tampa, Fla. four times faster than the rest of the Photo by Jamie Goodman least eight states to deny new plant havoc on several states in the Midwest to saltwater intrusion that threatens generators, water that is discharged back into the river or lake world’s coastlines. State lawmakers, meet Rick Handshoe, who has taught proposals. During prolonged heat in and mid-Atlantic. The storm arrived low-lying aquifers. Hotter, drier sum- is dirtier and hotter than when it entered the plant — by an aver- and the coastal developers that backed himself how to fight for water quality the summer of 2010, water tempera- without the typical warning signs mers deplete rivers, and warm winters age of 17˚ in the summer. Half of all coal plants report releasing water in the summer at peak the blatantly anti-science bill, may have in his community. Learn how Guille tures in the Tennessee River hit 90°F, as families prepared to celebrate the suppress the snow. temperatures of 100°F or more. This thermal pollution can stress or kill fish and other wildlife. missed the memo. Yearwood is incorporating water protec- forcing the Browns Ferry nuclear plant Fourth of July. It left millions without Despite the challenges to creating a In Lake Norman, N.C., massive dieoffs of striped bass in 2004, 2005 and 2010 were ultimately But as the seas rise, so does the tion into his cattle farming style on p. 12. to significantly cut the power output of power and, especially in parts of West responsible relationship to water, there attributed to hot water discharge from the lake’s two power plants. nation’s concern for the future of Hear how one group uses fly-fishing as a all three of its reactors for nearly five Virginia, without clean water. is a bright side. Every day, more people consecutive weeks — all while cities in the climate. More than 70 percent of way to heal physically and psychologi- As it is with all life, water is at the wake up and face the need to address our the region were experiencing high power Americans peg climate change as the cally wounded veterans on p. 13. And Withdrawals center of these extremes. water woes. They come to realize that by (gallons/MWh) demand for air conditioning. culprit that has contributed to extreme on p. 14-15, survey the economic impact The worst conditions of the wide- understanding and respecting the the re- weather in the past month, including of our region’s mighty rivers. 60,000 Nuclear* spread drought remain concentrated source we have, businesses, farmers and wildfires that redefine “wild,” a devas- If you’re like us, your favorite Coal* families position themselves to succeed 50,000 in the Midwest Corn Belt, where a swimming holes, rivers and spots tating drought and a record-breaking Biopower* Resourceful Renewables Not all rene- large percentage of the world’s corn is in a water-stressed world. heatwave. NBC meteorologist Doug beckon during the summer. In our spe- 40,000 weable energy sources are created alike. Certain renewable grown. Stunted crops have caused the The scourge of the energy and Natural Gas** 5 Kammerer himself made the news by cial center-spread pullout we explore technologies, such as wind turbines and solar photovoltaic, generate U.S. Department of Agriculture to slash extractive industries has undoubtedly saying bluntly during a forecast, “If some of our region’s opportunities for 30,000 Solar Thermal*** electricity with essentially no water at all. Some sources, such as bioen- projections by 12 percent, which in turn taken a toll. But Appalachia’s abundant we did not have global warming, we water-centric recreation. Don’t miss the Photovoltaic ergy, geothermal and concentrated solar panels (a.k.a. solar thermal), use has spiked prices. waters — emerging modestly from 20,000 wouldn’t see this.” special feature on Appalachia’s pictur- more water, but still less than more intensive sources such as coal and the mountains and harboring aquatic Wind Don’t want to take the weather- Farmers aren’t the only ones af- esque paddle trails, a refreshing way to 10,000 nuclear. Energy-efficient measures to reduce the amount of electricity we ecosystems galore — remain a resource use — through efficient appliances, weatherizing buildings, and dialing man’s word for it? The data presented in ter water. In some parts of the U.S., enjoy our waterways while educating a to be revered. From the foothills to the Median back heat and air conditioning — not only saves money and reduces the National Oceanic and Atmospheric privatized water rights are going to new generation about protecting them. 0 highest peaks, the sound of rushing wa- emissions, but also eliminates the corresponding water use. the highest bidder. Earlier this year in Chart courtesy of Union of Concerned Scientists, modified by * Based on once through cooling Appalachian Voices to reflect Southeastern energy sources system; ** Combined Cycle; *** Recirculate & dry cooled combined Page 8 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September 2012 | The Appalachian Voice | Page 9 For decades, coal slurry was unregulated Buried Blackwater and little was known Clean Water Warrior: Lessons from the Front Lines about where it was By Molly Moore 2. Persistence found several heavy metal exceedances, being dumped. In two including levels of aluminum 100 times For Rick Handshoe, the Pays Revealing Coal’s Dirty Secret major lawsuits, West greater than fresh water standards. trouble started in the mid- A lively perennial By Brian Sewell group for communities near coal slur- Virginians demanded “After you get beat to death here a the coal companies be nineties, when coal mining stream rushes down the ry disposal sites. “We’re talking about few times you learn to collect enough No one knows exactly held accountable for began near his father and mountainside two feet from oceans of this stuff underground.” evidence and say, ‘You guys have to do when the industry began years of community- sister’s homes and his sister lost the exterior wall of Hand- Today there is mounting evi- your job, and I’m proving that you’re injecting coal slurry, the wide contamination and use of her well. shoe’s daughter’s bedroom. dence that injecting coal slurry disease likely caused by not,’” Handshoe says. toxic, semi-solid waste that re- Since then, six wells – in- The stream appears as a blue underground has poisoned ground- slurry poisoning their mains after mined coal is washed, into line on U.S. Army Corps of wells. Photo by Vivian cluding the one dug by his an- 4. Friends Matter networks of abandoned mine shafts water, caused community-wide con- Stockman, ohvec.org cestors — have dried up or been Engineers maps, and the re- Rick Handshoe isn’t the only resi- throughout Appalachia. But it was some- tamination and shortened the lives of contaminated with explosive strictions surrounding sur- dent of his hollow whose life has time after a disaster on a cold morning in residents young and old who simply levels of methane on property face mining near perennial been changed by the toxicity of his 1972, when 132 million gallons of black- wanted to drink their water or bathe. ecologist and professor of biology at Testing water samples from fifteen that’s been in his family for over streams have protected a surroundings. Lowell Shepherd has water erupted from a poorly constructed Wheeling Jesuit University, met with wells within two miles of the Sprouse 200 years. Handshoe’s problems portion of land immediately lived alongside Raccoon Creek since dam and washed away communities Creating A Case residents in Mingo County who com- Creek Slurry Impoundment near Wil- accelerated when mountaintop behind Handshoe’s home 1967 and remembers when kingfishers along Buffalo Creek, that the disposal of Against Slurry plained of health problems, including liamson, W.Va., Stout found instances of removal coal mining reached his from mining. But that creek flocked to the creek and he dug fresh- slurry largely went underground. In the past decade, the growing miscarriages and birth defects, kidney contaminants such as lead and arsenic that hollow in the mid-2000s — now wasn’t always on the map. water “bowls” in his yard for his dog. The coal industry may have thought concern surrounding slurry has led to and liver failure, cancer, intestinal lesions exceed drinking water standards. his homeplace is surrounded on Handshoe meticulously Like Handshoe, he now waits for rain they found a safe alternative to the increased interest in the scientific and and nervous system disorders, among In his report, Stout wrote that the three sides by massive surface documented stream flow instead of watering his garden with slurry ponds they hid in the hills like medical communities. Residents were others. He agreed to study their well water quality in the area was “unques- mines and polluted water. through summer drought the creek. Since 2011, Shepherd has the one that failed on Buffalo Creek. But confident the opaque, gray and brown water quality and when he arrived, one tionably poor” and that it may present Things are getting worse. Rick Handshoe (above) and winter cold for two monitored a rain gauge and kept careful a secret this dirty never stays buried. water that they collected from their thing was already on everyone’s mind. a “chronic health hazard to families Over the past few months, seeps tests the conductivity and years before the Army records to help Handshoe corroborate “Over long periods of time, we’re wells was contaminated by slurry, but “Their number one question in eight exposed to wells.” Stout concluded that of toxic water spouted from the pH of a stream adjacent to Corps acknowledged the the amount of rainfall with his testing talking about billions of gallons.” says they would need to prove it in order to his home in January. Photo different communities in southern West the water was unsafe for drinking or slope 500 feet above his home, unnamed creek’s exis- results and coal company discharge by Molly Moore. In May, Mat Louis-Rosenberg of the West Virginia- stand up to the coal companies. Virginia was, ‘What is in coal slurry?’” and Handshoe discovered a tence. “They’ll name it Continued on page 17 a water quality reading on reports. based Sludge Safety Project, a watchdog In 2004, Dr. Ben Stout, a stream Two Years Long or some- Stout says. landslide near the top of the one of the seeps that popped Shepherd’s reason is the same as mountain. He worries that the up on Handshoe’s property thing like that, because of Handshoe’s. “I’d hate to see everything mountain might tumble down revealed a pH of 2.72 (right), how long it took me to do destroyed in this area where I’ve lived Underground Controversy: Fracking’s Impact on Clean Water around him, and since January which is slightly less acidic than lemon juice. Photo by Eric Chance that,” he jokes. my whole life,” Shepherd says. he’s been seeking answers. Still, Handshoe has documented a num- 3. Document, 5. Be Proactive By Jessica Kennedy ly explosions or health ment casing used in wells can be faulty or The federal Office of Surface Min- deteriorate over time, allowing the fluids ber of occasions where water the color document, document Nearly all types of conventional en- problems if inhaled ing has said Handshoe doesn’t face Handshoe doesn’t see a good out- in the well to leak out into the surround- of orange juice fills the creek. “Pictures don’t lie,” Handshoe says. ergy have their fair share of controversy, in large quantities, imminent danger. But he isn’t giving come arising from his current troubles. ing rock layers and into groundwater. Frustrated with agency responses “When the dust is rolling and the wa- and hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, to methane in drinking up. A self-taught watchdog with 20 Regardless of whether or not the toxic that ranged from tepid to non-existent, ter’s orange and the water’s gray, you extract natural gas is no different. This water is not poison- years of experience, he’s picked up a seeps and slope instabilities are attrib- Handshoe joined anti-mountaintop don’t have to say anything. The pictures highly-profitable process continues to ous, and the EPA announced Dealing With Wastewater few techniques. uted to the coal mines above his home, removal activists for a sit-in at the tell the stories.” spread while many people call for stricter that the water was safe to Tim Lucas, director of marketing the place where he hoped to live is 1. Seek authority Kentucky capitol in February 2011. In addition to his trusted camera, regulations and more research into its drink. A study by Duke Uni- communications for Duke’s Nicholas damaged. But his struggles have given Handshoe planned on building his Governor Beshear toured the creek that Handshoe owns the same water testing potential consequences. versity found that there are School of the Environment, says it’s him a clear message. dream house on a piece of family prop- spring, though his visit wasn’t a cure- equipment as state inspectors, and he Fracking now produces one third of naturally occurring pathways hard to know fracking’s exact impact on “It’s hard to get people to under- erty along Raccoon Creek, a shaded all. Handshoe reported more pollution tests his water weekly for conductivity all the natural gas in the U.S. Abundant that methane might travel water since there is no baseline sampling stand that you need to be testing and brook where he caught minnows as a violations in the creek following the — a measure of how water conducts and affordable, electricity generation through to reach drinking in many places where it’s done. Without documenting your good water,” he water supplies, but a study in water testing before fracking operations child, and passing down that home to governor’s visit. electrical current that can indicate the says. “The more documentation you from natural gas-fired power plants A fracking rig and operation stands among forests and fields in the journal Ground Water used began, it’s hard for individual citizens or his daughter. Now nothing lives in the Not one to back down, Handshoe presence of pollutants — and pH, which have, whether its mining, or drilling was equal to that of coal-fired plants. Bradford County, Penn. The state has been a hotbed of fracking stream — when one of his neighbors also attributes some successes — such measures the level of acidity. His water But its cheap cost comes with questions activity and controversy over the exact impact of fracking on computer modeling to show groups to prove that their water problems gas wells, oil wells, you need docu- added creek water to a stocked fishing as getting the coal company responsible tests on the seeps that formed above his — studies suggest that fracking and the groundwater. Photo by Bob Warhover that these natural pathways are caused by fracking. mentation that that water was good. pond, he said that the water “boiled the for his dad’s lost wells to pay his water home this spring showed a conductiv- wastewater it produces pose threats to are exacerbated by fracking. Wastewater, or flowback water, That’s where they really can pound you. and other water contamination. fish alive.” Handshoe is removing his bills — to one-on-one audiences with ity level of 4,200 — far above the 500 groundwater and surface water. In a 2011 study in Pa- contains not only the fracking fluid that They’ll just say, ‘Well, the water never In 2009, Dimock, Penn., took the villion, Wyo., the EPA found a slew of was injected into the well, but often other bow-hunting stands from the property members of Congress and high-ranking that the U.S. Environmental Protection was good there.’” Clear Problems, Unclear spotlight of the fracking discussion chemicals in samples from two deep wells contaminants brought up from under- because his doctor advised him not to state and federal officials. Agency says indicates an impaired Ap- “You may not think that you’re when residents reported drinking water drilled to monitor groundwater, including ground during the fracking process like eat anything that might have drunk Handshoe says going up the chain palachian stream. doing any good, but it may be 10 years Explanations contamination and a water well explo- benzene, a known carcinogen. Benzene is radioactive materials and heavy met- water on his land. of command takes time and tenacity, but If Handshoe gets results like that, before that data’s needed,” he contin- In the regions where fracking takes sion. The U.S. Environmental Protection used in petroleum distillates, which are als. Wastewater can easily contaminate After years of back-and-forth with he’s found it hard to get state and fed- his allies help pinpoint the problem. ues. “I can guarantee that at some point place, such as the Marcellus Shale Agency took over the investigation and frequently used in fracking fluid. Resi- groundwater, and it must be properly regulators, the mountaintop removal eral agencies to enforce the law without Appalachian Voices, the publisher of someone will be thrilled that I jumped formation that underlies much of Ap- found high levels of methane in many of dents were told their water was no longer disposed of, which requires significant mine at the creek’s headwaters installed speaking to the person in charge. this newspaper, sent water from the out and ran down to a hollow [to test palachia, personal anecdotes abound of the drinking water wells. safe. Studies have also shown that the ce- Continued on page 21 a treatment pond for mine discharge. seeps to an independent lab in May and water] right below their house.” flammable tap water, explosions, spills Although methane can cause dead-

Page 10 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September 2012 | The Appalachian Voice | Page 11 Photo by Jim Hopkins

HWelcome iddento the third installment of our exploration T of somereasures of the most Evolution of a Cattle Farm beautiful, off-the-beaten-path places in the Central and Southern Appa- lachian Mountains. In this issue, we hand picked some water-related hot Meeting the Needs of Cows and Streams spots perfect for late summer days: hikes, waterfalls, swimming holes and West Virginia everything in between. Hang on to this pull-out section as a guide to areas Smoke Hole Canyon By Jessica Kennedy he began the new grazing pattern. His ground water that are perfect for dipping your toes, or your whole self, into the water. cows have more abundant and better- piping, making Tucked away in the After nearly 30 years of practicing By Jessica Kennedy and Anna Norwood quality grass to eat, and Yearwood no it affordable Monongahela National For- continuous grazing on his cattle farm in longer has to worry about fertilizer run- for Yearwood. est, Smoke Hole Canyon is rural Virginia, Guille Yearwood trans- off from his fields to the water system. With rotational unlike any place you’ve ever formed his farming style to better serve “What I’m trying to do is grow grazing, it was visited. The South Branch his cattle and the environment. Kentucky healthy beef in a sustainable fashion necessary to get of the Potomac River is Yearwood, owner of Ellett Valley Dog Slaughter Falls that does not require a lot of input,” water to each sandwiched between North Beef Co. in Christiansburg, Va., had he says. paddock, and the Mountain and Cave Moun- settled into farming the way most land Located in the southern part of Daniel NRCS worked tain, creating a half-mile deep grant universities teach. He farmed in Yearwood’s farming transforma- Boone National Forest, this waterfall is with Yearwood canyon with nearly vertical the “conventional high-input way,” tion began when he came across Joel much more beautiful than its name implies. to make that pos- walls. using chemicals, herbicides, pesti- Salatin’s book, “Salad Bar Beef.” Like Slip away from the crowds and concrete many Appalachian farmers, Year- sible. No one is certain where cides and fertilizer to increase grass Guille Yearwood’s cattle wander through a pasture. Over the years, of the popular Cumberland Falls and find “When you Smoke Hole got its name. production, and employed continuous wood raised cattle to sell to feedlots, Yearwood has made changes to raise better, more profitable beef and yourself walking through forests of rhodo- take [the cows] out Some say that Native Ameri- grazing, a system in which his cattle but Salatin’s book discussed selling decrease his farm’s negative impact on the environment, including many dendrons and wildflowers to the smaller rotationally-grazed, grass-fed beef of that environ- streams and creeks on his property. Photo by Austin Hall but equally gorgeous 15-foot Dog Slaughter Photo by William Fultz II of flickr.com/photos/ cans used the canyon for smoking meat, while others assume the name comes stayed on one pasture throughout the williamfultz. directly to the consumer. ment, everything Falls. You might even find yourself alone, from the misty fog that frequently lies on the river. Smoke Hole Canyon’s long grazing season. quality in terms of sediment levels by Several years before his transition else seems to thrive, from the riverbanks as the trail is not for beginning hikers. Depending on the season and water level, and varied history involves Native Americans, the American Revolution, Civil “Sustainable alternatives were pre- letting that bank stabilize with vegeta- to grass-fed beef, Yearwood decided he to different types of fish, crawdads, Dog Slaughter Falls pools into a small swimming hole at the bottom. War and rumors of moonshine distilleries. sented to me about six years ago, and I tion and reducing erosion of sediment had seen enough damage to the creeks turtles, frogs, all of that stuff,” Year- The falls itself is located amidst cliffs and boulders, and if you’re not afraid Boaters might argue that the best way to experience this astonishing place is embraced that,” he says. into the stream,” Creed says. “But it by his cattle. He contacted the Natural wood says. of getting wet you can walk behind the waterfall. But be careful, the trails around to paddle the river. Kayaking and whitewater canoeing provide the best options Yearwood made the leap to rota- takes time. It may take 15, 20, 30 years Resources Conservation Service in But it’s not just the wildlife that the waterfall are strenuous and not for people with weak ankles or knees. Anglers to see sections that are set aside for non-motorized recreation and wildlife habitat. tional grazing, a system in which he before those effects start.” Virginia to begin work with them on a returns to the streams; there is a visual may be able to make a catch on the same hike, as the stream is stocked each year The Big Bend Campground is located nearby, where the stream is gentler and moves his cattle frequently between Yearwood says a vast majority of Best Management Practices program to difference in the cleanliness of the water. with rainbow trout. In addition to the Cumberland Falls access, the falls can be more popular for tubers and less experienced paddlers. For those able to make the several smaller pastures. That switch cattle in his area still have access to fence his cattle out of the North Fork of “When I was pumping water out of accessed from a trailhead off Forest Service Road 195. — JK journey, however, Smoke Hole Canyon is a must-see. Whether you prefer fishing, essentially eliminated Yearwood’s need creeks and streams. the Roanoke River. This spring, Year- the creek [to water the cattle], when our More Info: Located near Corbin, Ky. Visit: fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=39652 hunting, hiking, canoeing or camping, Smoke Hole has it all. — AN for fertilizer. “There are more people who are wood participated in another program neighbors’ cattle would get in the creek, More Info: Located in the Monongahela National Forest. Visit: fs.usda.gov/recarea/mnf/recreation/ “What I found over the years as beginners getting into farming who are to fence his cattle out of wetland areas. I would see a wave of dark green water hikingrecarea/?recid=9916&actid=50 you use [fertilizer] is that it requires doing things like I do — sustainable Yearwood pursued these projects come through,” Yearwood says. “You Red River more and more fertilizer every year type grazing,” Yearwood says. “The to conserve his streams, but by working could easily see that there’s a lot of bo- At a length of 97 miles, the Red River has something for everyone; the upper to produce the same amount of crop,” people who’ve been in the business Cranberry River with the NRCS, he was able to provide vine fecal matter going into that stream.” portion is perfect for intermediate and advanced paddlers with stretches of class Yearwood says. “The more you use it, longer as a whole do it as they always The Cranberry River an environmentally-friendly watering According to a Grazing Practices II and III rapids, while the gentler middle section provides a scenic class I paddle the more expensive it gets because more have with continuous grazing — no stretches for 24 miles through system that his cows could easily access. Report from North Carolina State Uni- or a beautiful place to fish. The best water levels are in spring and fall. is required.” grass management involved.” Pocahontas, Greenbrier, Web- The NRCS paid for 75 percent of the cost versity, feces and urine from animals Both sections of the river offer floaters impressive views of Kentucky’s Yearwood says grass production But Yearwood is not the only one ster and Nicholas counties. of the fencing, well drilling and under- can carry pathogens that get into the Red River Gorge, so allow plenty of time to enjoy a riverside perspective of the increased by 40 to 50 percent as soon as doing this program through the NRCS The waters of this river were water and can be passed to other mountains. The Gorge is known for its boulders, sandstone cliffs and unusual or one of the many other similar pro- poisoned a few short decades animals. Cattle are also rough on riv- rock formations. Camping is allowed on the Daniel Boone National Forest land grams funded by the local, state or ago due to acid rain, which erbanks, causing excess sediment to be on the south side of the river. federal government to keep livestock killed the native and self- released into the river. A battle to “Save the Red River Gorge” began in the 1960s and lasted for out of waterways. Tom Greene, district sustaining trout and many “You want some sediment enter- several decades. The Red River Gorge was the star of Wendell Berry’s novel “The Photo by Thomas R. Fletcher conservationist at the Christiansburg other forms of local aquatic ing your river,” says Robert Creed, Unforeseen Wilderness,” published in 1971 to deter the Army Corps of Engineers Service Center, says more people want life. Despite the serious acid a biology professor at Appalachian from damming it to create a lake. In 1993, a to participate in these programs than rain damage, Cranberry River was brought back to health thanks to the West State University. But drastic increases section of the river was designated as National they have funding for. Virginia Department of Natural Resources, Trout Unlimited and the building of can cause habitat loss for animal and Wild and Scenic River, the first in Kentucky. The “We get something like $12-14 two crushed-lime treatment sites. plant species. gorge is home to many species of birds, plants million in Southwest Virginia, and we An 18.9-mile trail follows the banks of the Cranberry River, and striking leaf According to Creed, proper stream and wildlife, and floating down the river can have way more applications than we displays and cool temperatures make for a perfect backpacking trip in autumn. management can push the stream back provide a rare glimpse at some of these fascinat- free wireless internet Locally roasted Fair Trade have money to cover,” Greene says. Today, Cranberry River ranks as a top fishery, surrounded by serene and elegant to good health, but it takes a long time. ing plants and animals. — JK frappes & fruit smoothies “There’s always a backlog of applicants forest. This river is a great location for trout fishing, hiking, swimming and camp- “Any time you start to reduce those More Info: Located in Daniel Boone National Forest, Ky. homemade pastries & desserts Coffee & Espresso out there.” Photo by Phillip Riggins ing, and it reminds us that there is hope for unhealthy streams and rivers. — AN effects, you’re going to improve water Visit: byways.org/stories/74560 More Info: Located in Pocahontas County. Visit: troutu.com/streams/cranberry_river_west_virginia 221 w. state street black mountain, nc 828.669.0999 www.dripolator.com Page 12 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 Photo by Kyle Green Hidden Treasures

South Carolina down the narrow, steep, rocky trail to Brasstown Veil, Brasstown Falls a wide and steep waterfall that dramatically free-falls Sumter National Forest in South Carolina is home about 20 feet into a shallow pool. to a collection of stunning waterfalls, four of which Adventure a little farther on the trail to reach the Brasstown Sluice, a long chute of water pouring into Photo by Chuck Sutherland are accessible from the parking area off Forest Service Road 751. An easy quarter-mile trail leads you to another picturesque pool. Little Brasstown Falls can be Tennessee accessed from the same parking area, but you’ll have Cummins Falls the first breathtaking waterfall known as Brasstown Cascades, a humbling 50-foot drop. If you’re feeling to wade through Brasstown Creek to reach it. — JK Arnold Valley Pool Virginia Established this year, Cummins Falls State Park is home to a majestic 75- Photo by Jeff Hammond adventurous, continue downstream and clamber More Info: Located in Oconee County, S.C. Visit: sctrails.net foot waterfall and a swimming hole rated as one of the best in America by Travel Off a dusty gravel road, Arnold Valley Pool is located near Devil’s Marbleyard in Natural Bridge, Va. This spring-fed swimming hole is perfect for the summer months, but be prepared + Leisure magazine. From the parking area, a three-mile hike leads you to the for a shock when you hit the cold water. Massive boulders surround the pool on three sides, sound of rushing water. The trail turns to rock-hopping and wading as you and a natural slide leads into the deepest part — almost 12 feet. Sometimes you can find a rope approach the falls. to swing on from one of the surrounding trees into the pool. However, be cautious if jumping Stair-step rocks at the base of the waterfall provide perfect perches for cooling — rocks lurk beneath the surface. down on a hot day. The pool at the base of the falls is big enough to cannonball Appalachian Blueways A nearby campground at Cave Mountain Lake in Jefferson National Forest provides over- into with plenty of places to sit in shallow water and sunbathe when you get out. night opportunities. Some describe Arnold Valley as nature’s amusement park, and one of its Between 1825 and 2010, the waterfall and surrounding area belonged to the By Anna Norwood ConservationBroad River on runs through Paddle Asheville, N.C. Trailsand best features is that it’s kid and family-friendly. — AN Cummins family, who allowed the public to visit the falls. Several years ago, a popular tourist destinations such as the Biltmore More Info: Located in Greenlee, Va. Visit: blueridgeoutdoors.com/outdoor-sports/hiking/swimmers’-guide-to- Imagine floating down a river, soaking up development was proposed to take over the land surrounding the falls, but the Estate and Pisgah National Forest. the-blue-ridge-parkway the beauty of your surroundings while the only Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation worked with the community to sounds you hear are birds chirping and the splash Carson paddled the entire French Broad Little Stoney Falls raise enough money to turn the area into Tennessee’s newest state park. Open of your paddle. The Appalachian Mountains are with a small group a number of years ago and The 2.8-mile Little Stony National Recreation Trail, located in the from 8 a.m. to sunset year round, and overnight camping is not allowed. — JK decorated with a multitude of rivers, and explor- it sparked an interest in others who wanted to Jefferson National Forest, follows Little Stony Creek and passes by three More Info: Located nine miles north of Cookeville, Tenn. Visit: tn.gov/environment/parks/Cum- ing them by canoe or kayak can range from a paddle and camp along the way. At the time, waterfalls. A fairly easy hike, this trail is a good alternative to the more minsFalls peaceful to an exhilarating experience. there was no public camping along the river but Hartwell began daydreaming about the idea. strenuous Devils Fork Loop nearby. Little Stony Falls, a 24-foot vertical The age-old concept of water travel and naviga- Photo by Dennis Mott waterfall cascading into a 10-foot pool below, offers many scenic views Tellico River tion has evolved into an ecological education tool, Now that idea has become reality. Carson envisions that when “folks start paddling the and is a whitewater kayaking destination for very advanced boaters. A Although the Tellico River begins in Western North Carolina, the majority a paddle trails that encourage people to experience river, they will become more interested in see- bridge stretches across the top of the falls, allowing hikers to stand directly above the rushing of this fishing and whitewater haven flows through Monroe County, Tenn. A a river while learning to protect and appreciate it. ing it protected.” water. The pool below is also a great spot to cool down in the late summer months. For hikers tributary of the Little Tennessee River, the best aspect of the Tellico is the quiet, A paddle trail, or “blueway,” consists of mul- The first part of the French Broad trail seeking a more challenging trip, the trail connects to the Chief Benge Scout Trail, an 18.7-mile peaceful trout fishing; it’s possible to find many spots along the river where you tiple launch points, camping locations and points is simple, with no real rapids or obstacles, a trail that encompases seven different trailheads including High Knob, an iconic Appalachian are alone with the fish and the sound of the river. Two tributaries of the Tellico, of interest for canoeists, paddle boarders and The French Broad Paddle more family-friendly section of the river. The lookout. — AN Bald River and North River, are also managed as wild trout streams and worth kayakers. These trails can be everything a hiking Trail. Photo by Tom Taylor, second part has some class II rapids, a few randomconnections.com More Info: Located near Dungannon, Va. Visit: waterfall-picture-guide.com/upper-little-stoney-falls.html checking out if you want to venture a little deeper. Fishing season is year-round trail can be, short or long, historic or scenic, chal- class III and one section is a class III or IV and but best in spring or fall. Be sure to get your state issued fishing permit if you lenging or laid-back. These perfect prospects for attracts more skilled kayakers. plan to fish here. paddle trails are the reason various blueways are This trail will bring economic benefits as well Miners Run Falls If you’re not into fishing, the upper Tellico River provides a tough paddle scattered throughout Appalachia. The Etowah River Trail as positive environmental impacts. WNCA reports The Etowah River in northern Georgia is consid- Miners Run is a tranquil area nestled in lower trail for adventurous kayakers with sections of class III and IV whitewater when that a 2001 economic impact study of eastern ered one of the country’s most biologically diverse Lycoming County, Penn. A path follows the course of Pennsylvania the water levels are high in the spring. Lower sections of the river are perfect for The French Broad Paddle Trail river systems. The idea for the Etowah River Trail In June, a nine-day grand opening float was North Carolina indicated the Coastal Plain water a creek deep in McIntyre Wild Area, a forest region canoeing and tubing. Whether paddling, fishing, or just taking a scenic walk, the came from a group of students at the University of held on the French Broad River, where participants trail system produced a significant $103.9 million preserved by the state for “hiking, hunting, fishing landscape of the Tellico Georgia who wanted to create a blueway with mul- paddled the entire length of the trail in North for the local economy. and the pursuit of peace and solitude.” As the trail River is awe-inspiring tiple launch points, camping locations and points of Carolina, camping at the seven new campsites “One thing I like about it is that it’s a great emerges from the trees, you can look down into the as it winds through the interest for canoeists, paddle boarders and kayakers. along the way. Close to 30 people joined French overnight recreation option within minutes of ravine formed by Miners Run and over a breathtaking Great Smoky Moun- They took the idea to Matthew Pate, the man- Broad Riverkeeper Hartwell Carson on the trip. Asheville,” Carson says. scene of jumbled boulders and waterfall after waterfall Photo by Michelle C. Kehler tains. — JK ager of the Outdoor Division of Forsyth County More Info: Located in The Western North Carolina Alliance and Riv- “I like it from the local’s perspective too cascading over a very narrow and steep gorge. Anglers Parks and Recreation, who has a passion for pad- erLink, a non-profit devoted to the economic and though, having this amenity in the backyard.” enjoy fly fishing at Miners Run, and the creek also flows into Rock Run, a popular fishing and Monroe County, Tenn. Visit: dling. He researched the idea and, recognizing the environmental revitalization of the French Broad If you’re interested in paddling the French Broad, visit: swimming spot. Experienced boaters will even paddle a short section of Miners Run. For oth- tellico-plains.com/tellico- growing trend, thought, “Why don’t we try that?” River, worked hard to create this paddle trail, span- wnca.org/paddle ers, simply enjoying the scenery is enough. — AN river-bald-river-falls.html More Info: Located in Lycoming County. Visit: trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGN197-039 Photo by Ken Gables Photography at lighttowrite.com. ning more than 120 miles of the river. The French Continued on next page Wildcat Creek Mills River Trails North Carolina Build a Rod, Tie a Fly Georgia Wildcat Creek is a brilliant If you’re looking for a hike to cool down creek with an inviting swim- but don’t feel like fully submerging yourself, In Search of Healing Waters ming hole nestled among the the network of trails in the Mills River area trees in the Lake Burton Wildlife of Pisgah National Forest is the perfect place. By Brian Sewell surrounding Asheville, N.C., lead by Harman and local volunteers, Management area. A major at- Hikes here are lined with babbling brooks When David Frady, a 46-year-old the participants have ranged in age traction at Wildcat is the “slid- that welcome visitors who make it to the less Photo by Jeff Clark, Meanderthals: A from Leicester, N.C., woke up this morn- Hiking Blog at internetbrothers.org from 19 to 93. ing rock,” where water flows popular and more remote area of the park. ing, he felt like going fishing. So far, the “All of these individuals have down a flat stone, creating a The trails meander near and through the relaxing overnight trip, check out the campsite rain has kept him indoors, where he’ll experienced warfare to one degree natural waterslide. Trout fish- North and South Mills rivers and ford crisp at Wolf Ford, four miles from Forest Service practice tying flies, work on the small boat or another,” says Harman. “In this ing is also popular, during trout mountain streams numerous times. Many of Road 476. he volunteered to build or pick his guitar, type of group that understands season in the spring the creek is the stream crossings require hikers to wade Before you dig out your water shoes, make his other favorite stress-relieving activity. what they’re going through, it’s a heavily packed with rainbow instead of rock hop, so be sure to wear shoes sure to check the weather; some river crossings Frady says he’s always been a fly good place for them to release some and brown trout from the near- that you don’t mind getting wet. are impossible to wade through in high water fisherman. He began tying flies when of their anxiety and to start the heal- by Lake Burton Fish Hatchery. At the beginning of the South Mills River from heavy rainfall. Many of the trails in this his wife was pregnant with their son al- ing process.” Photo by John Cothron There are two campgrounds Trail, a suspension bridge with a rope handrail area allow mountain bikers and horseback most 12 years ago. But one day, he quit. provides one of the only dry river crossings. Project Healing Waters, close-by, and the creek provides riders as well. — JK Although he has no history of heart Project Healing Waters, a nonprofit which provides all training, activities for all ages with plenty of room for relaxation. — AN Multiple trails in this area of the park allow More Info: Located in Pisgah National Forest at the conditions in his family, a series of heart dedicated to the rehabilitation of active equipment and trips free of More Info: Located between Helen and Clayton in the Lake Burton area. Visit: northgeor- visitors to create a hike of any length — do a Turkeypen Gap Trailhead. Visit: hikewnc.info/trailheads/ attacks after serving in Operation Des- military and veterans, understands the charge, began as one might giamountainfreak.blogspot.com/2008/09/wildcat-creek-has-lot-to-offer.html short out-and-back hike or grab a trail map pisgah/pisgah/mills.html ert Storm left Frady with three coronary therapeutic value of fishing with friends or expect: with the cast of a fly simply rigging a fly line (top). No matter to create a longer loop. If you’re looking for a stents and an implanted defibrillator. “I rod. One day while staying their age, disability or fishing ability, Project Photo by Dwight Stephenson was just depressed, sitting on the couch Healing Waters welcomes veterans into the at Walter Reed Hospital in Fontana Lake and feeling sorry for myself,” he says. world of fly-fishing (left). The group provides Washington, D.C., Captain Gorge Trail “I had not tied a fly in probably five all instruction, equipment, travel and At 29 miles long with 240 miles of shoreline, Ed Nicholson, a Navy vet- East Gorge Walk and Ohio years or more.” accommodations to participants at no cost. Fontana Lake stretches in many directions to eran and fisherman, took to Photos courtesy of Project Healing Waters West Gorge Trail create a Then one day Frady saw a poster create coves that feel like your own pocket of the lawn to practice his cast. two-mile loop along Mill at the veterans’ hospital in Asheville munity to make it work.” paradise. “The first time he did Creek in Northeast Ohio. for Project Healing Waters, a nonprofit As it turns out, most fly fishing The lake was built by the Tennessee Valley that, one or two people The part boardwalk, part that teaches fly-fishing as therapy and groups are happy to help, whether Photo by Larry Beers Authority and sits beneath the Great Smoky stopped and asked what footpath trail takes visitors treats the river as a rehab facility. He Waters program’s river trips and out- it’s providing instruction, guides Mountains National Park. At some places on he was doing,” Harman recalls. “The by huge sandstone rock for- called, attended a meeting, and quickly ings, don’t expect to hear war stories. for group outings or managing a local the water, the view is unobstructed from lake next day 10 or 15 people stopped and mations, a suspension bridge, and one of Mill Creek Metroparks’ Visitors to Fontana Lake can boat, water rediscovered his passion for the sport Fishing tales are main course of the Project Healing Waters program. Cur- level to the top of Clingman’s Dome, the highest watched and by the third day he had most impressive landmarks: Lanterman’s Falls and Mill. ski, swim, fish or check out the surrounding and the possibility of a better life. conversations, and friendly jabs about rently, there are more than 130 active peak in the park. 25 people, everyone standing around The waterfall’s 15-foot free fall into a deep, rocky pool is made area, which is home to the Nantahala River as “To talk about it makes the hair who caught the biggest fish that day programs in the U.S. and one in Canada; Despite its size of 11,700 acres, Fontana wanting to cast his fly rod.” even more amazing by its location adjacent to the nearly seven-story well as Tsali hiking and biking trails that over- stand up on my arms,” Frady says, are passed around the campfire while the organization will soon add a pro- Lake is secluded and quiet, offering the per- Nicholson knew he was onto some- mill made of stone and wood. Depending on the water level, the look the lake. Because of its deep, cold waters, thinking back. “I want to say it saved Frady plucks his guitar. gram in Germany and potentially one fect place to disconnect from contemporary thing. If fly fishing on the land brought creek is still used to operate the grist mill, which functions today as swimming is crisp and refreshing on a hot day, my life.” in Australia, Harman says. concerns and appreciate nature. The lake together this many vets, he wondered it did in the 1800s, grinding corn, wheat and buckwheat. while fishing is prime; muskie and walleye of A Healing Hobby While Harman, Folger and volun- never gets very wide, and since more than Casting with Comrades what getting them on the water together To add length to the Gorge Trail, jump onto another trail record sizes have been caught here. — JK Across the country, Project Heal- teers instruct and immerse veterans in 90 percent of the land surrounding Fontana “It’s really not about the fishing.” could accomplish. through Mill Creek Metroparks, which cover more than 4,400 acres More Info: Located in Bryson City, N.C. Visit: greatsmokies. ing Waters participants are finding fly fishing, there is one more essential Lake is owned by the National Park Service That is the first thing Ryan Harman, the Frady doesn’t have to wonder. He of land in Mahoning County. Mill Creek Park was the first park com/fontana.php the same peacefulness that Frady component. At local veteran’s hospitals, or the U.S. Forest Service, your visit will be Western North Carolina coordinator for describes being on the river as “peace- district in Ohio, opening in 1893. — JK discovered. With the participation, recreation therapists like Joanie Ledford entirely your own. Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, says. fulness.” More Info: Located near Youngstown, Ohio. Visit: millcreekmetroparks.org. instruction and countless volunteer help identify the interest and connect An avid angler, Harman means “Once you get out there, you’re hours of groups like the Federation of vets with Project Healing Waters. that when he’s on the river with the concentrating on what you’re doing at Fly Fishers and Trout Unlimited — the “I concentrate on what the veterans wounded warriors who participate in the time,” he says. “The stresses and opportunity as well as a recreational one. fishing club with over 150,000 members themselves enjoy doing and adapt that Project Healing Waters, fishing is just a the thoughts and the memories, all the Appalachian Blueways “The more people are outdoors, the more they in about 400 chapters — this innovative activity to their ability,” Ledford says, (continued from previous page) means to a higher end. things that we feel every day – they appreciate it. Having something like this helps us approach to physical and emotional because, while it’s not really about fish- “It’s about the camaraderie,” he kind of wash down the creek.” Following Pate’s initiative, Forsyth and Cherokee take out groups, educate them about litter, about therapy has expanded nationwide. ing, that’s where it starts. Some don’t says. “It’s about the social interaction. For anyone who has been through counties as well as the city of Canton are working trees that are down, even about substances leaking “We’ve been doing it long enough take to it, and that’s OK, she says. For And it’s about getting them on the combat, says Frady, emerging un- with Coosa River Basin Initiative, the Upper Etowah from people’s property.” The idea, Pate says, is to to know that in any given population of those who do, it can be transformative. water and the rehabilitation that has.” changed is impossible. And compan- River Alliance and Mountain Stewards to build the “educate the public in being good stewards.” veterans there is going to be a percentage When Frady recently taught a fly To Project Healing Waters, a ionship goes a long way. trail. Forsyth, the county with the smallest portion of The troubled economy slowed construction on of them that are going to have an interest tying class at the Asheville V.A., a “first- “wounded warrior” is just that, a dis- “You aren’t the same person,” he the river trail, purchased property adjoining the trail the Etowah River Trail in 2009, but it has recently in the program,” says Alan Folger, the timer” who had never tied a fly or been Photo by Gail Des Jardin abled veteran — physically or psycho- says. “To join a program where you’re in 2008, and is planning a 226-acre park along the picked back up and organizers hope the trail will be Veteran Service Program Coordinator fly fishing sat quietly in the room. “I’ll logically — of any war. Warriors with with those that have the same life ex- for Trout Unlimited. “We also know that river that will accommodate campers and paddlers seven- to ten-mile stretches of public launch access. complete in the next year. tell you what,” says Frady, “When he wounds that aren’t combat-related are perience, it really helps a lot.” every community in the country has a on overnight trips. In total, there are 40-plus nauti- Pate explains that one of the key components of For more information about the Etowah River also welcome. During trips to the rivers But on Asheville’s Project Healing population of veterans. But it takes com- Continued on page 17 cal miles of river and the trail will eventually have this blueway is using the Etowah as an educational Trail, visit etowahriver.org.

Page 12 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September | The Appalachian Voice | Page 13 Continued from previous page state Department of Environmental a “perceived right” The Value of Running Water the state’s largest cities — the Gauley Protection is building dozens of partial to a river that should and New rivers converge to become the dams out of boulders to create narrow be equally accessible By Molly Moore clean river,” William- Kanawha, which provides municipal channels and deep pools that will help to all types of wilder- son says. Appalachia’s signature water to Charleston and Huntington. scour sediment from the river bottom. ness enthusiasts. Ap- Along the French streams and rivers braid together the Today, the river is carrying a new peals regarding the Broad and Swannanoa riv- region’s hills, hollows and pastures, Coal River economic cargo — outdoor enthusi- disputed stretch are ers, the city of Asheville, offering fishing, recreation and trans- The Coal River and its chief tribu- asts. The Coal River/Walhonde paddle ongoing. N.C., is also making use of its portation in addition to the planet’s most taries, the Big and Little Coal Rivers, trail — which recognizes the Delaware At the same time, water access. Scott Hamilton, vital liquid. snake through the heart of southern Indians’ name for the river, Walhon- pollution from Stekoa president of Advantage West, Rivers are so integrated into daily West Virginia and are emblematic of decepe — stretches 88 miles along Creek, which joins the Western North Carolina’s life that some people cross a bridge both the region’s beauty and the the Big, Little and main Coal riv- river on section four, regional economic develop- every day without truly seeing the consequences of dependence on the ers. An annual fundraising float has scarred an other- ment group, says every sector $50 waterway beneath it. But that doesn’t river’s namesake. sponsored by Coal River Group wise healthy river for The smell and sight of Stekoa Creek entering the Chattooga River is hard of the economy is affected by million mean the river isn’t there, offering Coal River has been a utili- this June drew more than 600 decades. In fact, the to miss — water testing by conservation groups has helped pinpoint parts waterways, either through perches to herons behind small farms, tarian artery since the 1800s, Latest estimated participants. area downstream from of a nearby town’s sewage system most in need of repair. Photo courtesy of the use of low-cost hydro- when seams of coal mined cost of proposed Chattooga Conservancy making subtle commentaries about the reservoir along the creek’s mouth was has made progress. The partnership aims electric power or because the from its banks were used as The Chattooga surrounding residents based on how the Catawba River almost excluded from the Wild and to create a stream buffer zone and amenities of a waterway have a replacement for whale oil. in South Carolina3 From its headwaters much litter lines the riverbanks, and in- Scenic zone for that reason, says Buzz institute fiscally smart, environ- added to quality of place. In those days, the river was in the mountains near Ca- fluencing everything from the location Williams, program assistant at the Chat- mentally strategic upgrades to This year, both Sierra Ne- managed by a lock and dam shiers, N.C., until it joins the and shape of a town to the businesses The Tennessee River flows by a neighborhood in Knoxville, Tenn. (above) tooga Conservancy, a local environ- Clayton’s sewage lines — two vada Brewing Co. and New system to transport timber and Tugaloo River, the Chattooga runs that set up shop nearby. Istockphoto: Melinda Fawver. A kayaker tours the Upper Chattooga in January mental group. He cites contamination major repairs are already Belgium Brewing Co., the na- 2007 (right) to gather data about the recreational values of the river during the coal; it also powered small mills that unfettered through three states. The 57 The Tennessee River, the largest from industrial agriculture and a leaky, complete. And a decrease tion’s second and third largest only Forest-Service-condoned descent of this section of river since 1976. Photo produced textiles, flour and lumber. miles of alternately tranquil and tur- 3% tributary of the Ohio River, shaped 60-year-old sewage system in the nearby in the the amount of pol- craft brewers, announced courtesy of American Whitewater, by Brian Jacobson Eventually, railways replaced water as bulent water were declared a National the birth of Chattanooga, Tenn., a city town of Clayton as the chief problems. lution Stekoa Creek nationwide plans to build facilities on the primary mode of transportation. Wild and Scenic River in 1974 and are that grew out of a riverfront trading a river’s-eye view of Appalachia. nally recog- Over the past several years, however, dumps into the river percentage the banks of the French Broad More recently, the Coal River wa- crossed by just four bridges. of dams that outpost. When Chattanooga looked From flashy headwater streams in nized for whitewater boating. The timing a partnership between area nonprofits is one thing that will citing the area’s high-quality municipal tershed has become a default dumping A study by North Carolina State generate to revitalize its downtown in the early the mountains to steady flows through of the fall boating season is based on the such as the Chattooga Conservancy and please all river recre- water. Together, the breweries will add ground for mine and timber waste. University, American Rivers and the electricity4 ’80s, reconnecting with the river was stately valleys, the region’s rivers supply need to lower Summersville Lake, the res- the local government to clean up the creek ationists. about 240 jobs. Twenty-five percent of the river’s water- National Park Service found that in 2002 the goal. “This is how we started the people with everything from trout ervoir above the dam, to make room for The value of clean water isn’t lim- shed is either permitted for surface min- boating generated $2.6 million for the and began as a city hundreds of and tourism to transportation and en- winter and spring precipitation. In 1988, ited to urban centers. In recent years, ing or has already been surface mined. six-county area surrounding the Wild years ago, so it made sense to ergy. Running water is always rewriting the Gauley River National Recreation North Carolina’s famed Nantahala Pollution from these mines has earned and Scenic portion of the river — and get back to the river,” says Jim its story, but some themes are constant. Area was established, protecting 25 of River has drawn over 500,000 the river a place on the endangered the overall regional economic impact Williamson, vice president of the 107 miles between the Summersville recreation enthusiasts annu- rivers list twice, including in 2012. This of Chattooga boating was estimated at planning and development Dam and the Gauley’s confluence with 80,000 ally. A survey conducted by A Tale of Three Rivers time, however, American Rivers said $5.8 million. for River City Company, a the New River. Western Carolina Univer- The Gauley that the river basin was listed because The river’s popularity has also led private nonprofit founded Approximate A hydroelectric plant was added sity in 2009 showed that Internationally known for its nar- it is at a “decision point” where rules to strife. When the Forest Service issued to help the city and county number of to the Summersville Dam in 2001, whitewater recreation on row gorge and wild whitewater, the regarding surface mines will have a the first management plan in 1976, ap- capitalize on the riverfront. 1 garnering praise from proponents of U.S. dams the Nantahala contributed flow of West Virginia’s Gauley River is profound affect on its future. proximately 20 miles of the river’s up- Chattanooga’s water- low-impact hydropower — projects that $85.4 million and 1,060 jobs governed by the Summersville Dam. Cleanup efforts in the Coal River per reaches were declared off-limits to front boasts entertainment ven- have a minimal effect on the rivers they to the local economy. Though the dam currently controls watershed have cost millions of dol- paddlers, making the Upper Chattooga ues, an aquarium and a network occupy — because the plant capitalized Ecotourism might be a big draw, a hydroelectric project capable of gen- lars. A $20 million sewer project near the only Wild and Scenic river in the of parks that highlight local history. An on an existing dam. but Kevin Colburn, national steward- erating 80 megawatts of electricity per St. Albans, a town at the confluence nation with a boating ban. old bridge was redeveloped as a pedes- Despite all the Gauley River ship director for paddling group Ameri- hour and a whitewater boating experi- of the Coal and Kanawha rivers, was When the the management plan trian walkway, and the current Tennessee contributes to the state, it also can Whitewater, says that recreation ence that draws an average of more than secured by the nonprofit Coal River was up for revision in the late ‘90s, na- Riverwalk path spans 13 miles. William- appeared on watchdog group is typically a secondary purpose of 150,000 visitors per year, it was built in Group to help eliminate fecal coliform tional paddling organization American son says that the anecdotal evidence of American Rivers’ annual 10 Eastern dams. On the Nantahala, Duke the 1960s for a much more mundane bacteria. And a project directed by the Whitewater lobbied against the boating bricks-and-mortar investment dollars is Most Endangered Rivers list Power’s 98.5 megawatt hydroelectric purpose — flood control. The Army ban, and the argument continues. Sev- huge — and Volkswagen alluded to the in 2010 due to contamina- facility is the top priority and the raft- Corps says the dam paid for itself in eral groups, including national fishing city’s downtown as a reason for building tion from mountaintop re- ing industry is considered after that. less than eight years by preventing $67 22% organization Trout Unlimited, contend a $1 billion facility nearby. This spring, moval coal mining, par- And on North Carolina’s Cheoah River, million in flood damages. that the Upper Chattooga offers foot economic development and tourism of- ticularly in the Twen- Percentage which was completely dewatered for In the mid-eighties, Congress made of West travelers a rare reprieve from the pres- ficials from Huntington, W.Va., visited the tymile and Peters city’s river corridor to take notes. 77 years, dam release negotiations cen- recreation an official goal of the Sum- Virginia ence of boaters, while American White- tered around downstream ecological Creek watersheds. In Chattanooga, fishing piers and mersville Dam, providing a fixed number streams that water maintains that decades of pref- benefits. When releases began in 2005, What happens along the opportunity to rent paddle boards of dam releases in the fall and marking may qualify erential treatment have given anglers the forest service provided commercial the Gauley affects as impaired attract visitors, as does the nation’s the first time that a river was congressio- Rafters enjoy Pillow Rock rapid on the Upper boating permits, fostering yet another Sources for statistics: 1&4 National Hydropower Association 2. “How Many Mountains Can We Mine? under state second-largest rowing regatta. “You 2 opportunity for the rafting industry and Assessing the Regional Degradation of Central Appalachian Rivers by Surface Coal Mining,” Environmental criteria Gauley River. Photo courtesy of American encourage more activity by having a Science and Technology, Bernhardt, Lutz, et. al., 12 July 2012. 3. “Money Pit: The High Cost and High Risk Whitewater, by Thomas O’Keefe of Water Supply Reservoirs in the Southeast,” American Rivers, 10 July 2012. Page 14 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September | The Appalachian Voice | Page 15 Buried Blackwater: Coal’s Dirty Secret GREEN indiscriminately injected slurry under- Virginians, companies operating coal This House Continued from page 10 Some, such as Erkan Esmer, a one-time ground with little to no oversight for prep plants are making the switch to al- bathing in and could be harmful wheth- consultant for Massey, believe the more than 30 years. ternative technology that Sludge Safety Recycling the Rain Brings a Barrel of Savings er ingested or inhaled as steam, pointing chances of contamination could have In 2009, after Sludge Safety Project Project and many others have supported based on estimates derived from out that hot water heaters concentrate been minimized, had the company worked to organize citizen efforts, the for years. In the past two years, three By Paige Campbell their water usage. heavy metals in water before it reaches constructed an impoundment instead group won a moratorium — self-im- plants have switched to using dry-filter “They figure that what’s com- Tom McMullen may be the most the sink or shower. of opting for underground injection. posed by the West Virginia Department presses, a closed-loop system that elimi- ing in is going out,” McMullen water-wise homeowner in the neigh- Coal-related activities likely contrib- But as Esmer said in recently publicized of Environmental Protection — on new nates the creation of slurry and the need says. It’s a reasonable assumption borhood. uted to the pollution, the report found, testimony from the pretrial investiga- underground injection permits being to dispose of it. In the stain that slurry for many people using city water, McMullen, his wife Amanda and but additional studies would be required tion, “Don [Blankenship, then-CEO of issued in West Virginia. has left on water and West Virginia, whose consumption takes place their two sons live on six-tenths of an to determine the exact sources of the con- Massey Energy] thought that $55,000 “We’ve made major strides but Rosenberg sees an encouraging story. almost entirely indoors — show- acre inside the town limits of Abing- tamination. What Stout really needed, he was too much to spend.” we’re still trying to get the last of them “Unlike the general downturn ering, cooking, cleaning, flushing don, Va. A small front lawn and the says, was a slurry sample from site of the Rosenberg and the Sludge Safety shut down,” says Rosenberg. “The of coal, the things that are blocking toilets. But what about outdoor house itself take up a third of the lot. slurry injection. Project know these are not new prob- moratorium could be lifted at any time.” injection and impoundment permits usage? But walk out the back door and you’re Stout visited the site with the per- lems, and that they won’t be easy to fix. Sludge Safety Project came close really come from years [of] aggressive Around 2006, “rain barrels greeted by four-tenths of an acre with a mission of Massey Energy, the owner of But after another high-profile settlement last year to achieving their primary advocacy, not just because of market kind of became a big thing in this job to do. Vegetable gardens, a chicken the prep plant that pumped 1.4 billion in June 2012 related to water contamina- goal: an outright ban on slurry injection. conditions,” he says. region,” McMullen says. “Sev- coop, rabbit hutches, berry bushes and gallons of slurry into the ground over tion from slurry injection in neighboring But as the group worked to gain support In the heart of Appalachia, the shift eral groups started putting on newly-planted fig and mulberry trees nearly a decade. At the last minute, Prenter, W.Va., this time against Patriot in the legislature for the ban, the West away from coal slurry continues. But workshops to teach people how fill nearly every patch of ground with Massey denied him access to collect Coal Corp., the group, and residents, Virginia Coal Association was lobbying the resource the residents sought to to put them together.” With that a specific purpose. Using their 740-gallon rainwater catchment slurry for testing. Nearly 700 impacted are hopeful. for the DEP’s moratorium to be lifted. protect is lost. community interest as a kickstart, system, the water-wise McMullen family has All that functionality demands residents of Mingo County sued the There are many parallels between Neither accomplished their goal, but “There is no truly good solution McMullen got to work on his fostered a thriving micro-farm. Even the simplest water. Lots of it. But this summer, even notorious coal company, who denied the Prenter and Rawl cases. They took the difficulty in obtaining a permit to to a poisoned aquifer,” says Rosen- own system. And as a member of system can collect enough rainwater to water with dry spells and record heat, not plants, fill birdbaths or wash a car. “It’s ano culpability. Seven years later, on July 27, place just two counties apart. Both com- build a surface impoundment and the berg. “That’s a resources that’s been Abingdon’s Go Green Committee, a drop of city water has been spilled brainer,” says Carol Doss, who teaching rain 2011, Massey settled with the residents munities watched their water quality inability to inject underground has the taken away from people forever that can he also helped organize and pres- in the McMullens’ backyard. That’s barrel building workshops. Photos by Paige for $35 million. decline until a brackish, foul-smelling industry backed into a corner. never be fixed. There’s no true justice for ent a series of helping to offer rain Campbell because over the past six years, McMul- “Now, that doesn’t admit guilt but liquid fell from their faucets and stained After years of pressure from West something like that.” barrel workshops at community len has constructed an elaborate rain it sure raises a red flag that something and corroded bathtubs and sinks. Both events. barrel system that stores 740 gallons of type of barrel, the rest is simple: cut is to get it where you need it,” he says. went wrong there,” says Stout. watched as their community’s health Workshops typically demonstrate rainwater diverted from the gutters on three holes. First, cut the lid so a plastic One piece of advice Carol Doss The simple fact, Stout says, is that rapidly declined. And in both cases, the concept using a thick-walled, food- the family’s modest home and a single colander can be nested in securely. Your gives every workshop participant is “there are surface impoundments and the coal companies settled at the last grade lidded barrel made from a type outbuilding. gutter’s downspout should land inside how to keep mosquitoes out. Standing underground injections into old coal minute, just days before opening of plastic that will not break down in That water has helped them trans- the colander, which will catch debris. water can quickly turn into a mosquito mines and around aquifers, and a lot arguments. sunlight. “You can’t use any that have form a small backyard into a wildly Next, buy a half-inch spigot and drill a breeding ground if the water is not of those aquifers are where people get “That is what’s common in most contained anything toxic,” McMullen productive micro-farm to feed their hole near the bottom of the barrel wall. treated with a product to kill larvae, their drinking water.” of these court cases,” Rosenberg says. says, “so a good place to look is a local family; it has allowed them to practice Coat the spigot’s threads with a sealant usually made from bacteria called Bacil- “Even when you win, you don’t win. bottling company.” Carol Doss, coordi- diligent conservation while keeping (like silicone or Gorilla Glue), and fit it lus thuringiensis israelensis. Repeat Offenders You settle. The coal companies don’t nator and workshop facilitator for the their water bill — and sewer bill, as it snugly into the hole. The last hole, near Doss also suggests using the water The settlement between Mingo want the public spectacle of a trial.” Upper Tennessee River Roundtable, a turns out — quite low. the top, is for overflow. Fit this hole within two weeks to prevent algae, County residents and Massey’s Rawl Before 1999 in West Virginia, nonprofit that works to improve water Here’s something you might not with two simple half-inch plumbing avoiding moss-killing products on your Sales & Processing subsidiary became Rosenberg says, there were no mean- quality in that river’s watershed, also know about your sewer bill: it’s prob- couplings — one straight, one elbow roof (they can taint the water and harm one of the most publicized of its kind. ingful regulations governing slurry suggests contacting companies that ably not determined by how much — to position a flexible tube so it points your garden), and bringing barrels injection, meaning that coal companies make pickles. sewage you generate. Most municipal down and away from your house or into indoors over the winter. “One winter Once you get your hands on this systems calculate residents’ sewer bills another barrel. we left ours out and it froze into one In Search of Healing Waters Of course, rain can be collected humongous chunk of ice,” she says. “It Continued from page 13 in just about anything. Large plastic didn’t pop the faucet off, but it could water. His excitement recounting a re- storage bins and trash cans work too, have. And I swear it didn’t melt until tied that first fly, you could feel the sense cent trip to West Virginia is as pure as a though they may crack and buckle over late spring.” of accomplishment that he had.” At the child’s who has just caught his first fish. Individuals, Builders, Architects and Realtors interested time. McMullen began with a 250-gallon When the water is flowing, it can next meeting, he arrived holding his own But like Harman, Frady knows in Quality Comprehensive Log & Timber Subcontract tank that once contained a non-toxic be used to water plants and lawns, fill fly tying kit. that the organizers, volunteers and Services: We can assist you or your clients with substance used for wastewater treat- birdbaths, and wash cars. From a con- “When the guys come together most of all his fellow wounded war- regional UNIQUE HEAVY TIMBER products or ment. He fitted a hose onto the tank servation perspective, the benefits are they see themselves as fly fishermen,” riors have helped him heal more than arrange full custom construction services. and propped it up on cinder blocks at clear. “Just a tiny bit of rain, and you Ledford says. “I think that’s what brings the water or fly-fishing. Promoting building that preserves the a height just slightly above the high end have a ton of water,” Doss says. “It’s a them out of their shell. You can see the “I would do anything in the community character of his vegetable garden to allow gravity no-brainer. That water would just run sparkle in their eyes as they accomplish world for them right now.” he says. and culture of our region. to bring the water through the hose, off your property. Why not put it to use more, they start looking you in the eye “They’d do anything in the world for Please visit our website: like a siphon, to the entire garden. “The instead?” and standing up straighter.” me. Well, I know they would. They www.HearthstoneOfBoone.com higher you store your water, the easier it · · · Frady, for one, found healing in the already have.”

Page 16 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September | The Appalachian Voice | Page 17 The COAL REPORT News from Appalachia and Beyond The COAL REPORT News from Appalachia and Beyond Coal’s Cloudy Future: The Factors in The Fossil Fuel’s Decline The Coal Expressway: 50 Mile Strip Mine Slated For Virgina By Mike McCoy The expressway is also slated to cover the first 25 miles of the strip mine and hearings for the Coalfields Expressway By Brian Sewell coal,” the investment analysis website States coal producers. The demand effects of coal’s decline are much closer an additional 60 miles in West Virginia, Sections I and II. The first will take place The Virginia Department of Trans- road would impact 12 miles of streams SeekingAlpha.com advised shortly overseas, however, was not enough to to home. In June, Arch Coal announced where it is already partially completed. Monday, Aug. 13 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Central A light winter that dented demand portation and Alpha Natural Resources and more than 2,000 acres of forest. Area after the EIA’s announcement. Among serve as Patriot Coal’s lifeboat. Other it would lay off 750 workers, citing “the High School in Wise and the second will is the least of the coal industry’s worries are teaming up in a public-private part- Tax dollars and eminent domain residents have expressed concern about other indicators, the steady decline of Appalachian-focused coal producers unprecedented downturn in demand be held Tuesday, Aug. 14 from 5 – 7 p.m. in a year of unprecedented challenges nership to create a 50-mile road and strip will allow Alpha Natural Resources to not only water and land impacts, but also coal stocks reveals that natural gas is have also looked to exports as a viable for coal-based electricity.” at Russell Prater Elementary in Vansant. that may point to a very frigid future. mine in Southwestern Virginia. Called strip-mine once-private lands, with the potential economic impacts of a roadway already taking its toll. Prices for major way to stay afloat. That unprecedented downturn has While the industry is familiar with the Coalfield Expressway, the road agreement that they grade the land in that allows travelers to bypass local com- Visit virginiadot.org for updates or Central Appalachian coal producers On July 19, Rep. Ed Markey, the caused the industry to focus their ire market fluctuations and the shifting would run from Pound in Wise County preparation for the road. munities. Supporters of the project claim wiseenergyforvirginia.org for informa- such as Alpha Natural Resources and ranking democrat of the House’s Natu- on environmental regulations for the regulatory framework, analysts con- northeast to the West Virginia border. Details are still emerging, but accord- it will boost local economic development. tion about submitting comments. Arch Coal continue to fall. sidering coal’s present challenges, ral Resources Committee, released a challenges coal faces. In June, an attack ing to a 2012 Environmental Assessment, VDOT has scheduled two public especially natural gas’ affordability Casting a deeper cloud of uncer- report, titled “Our Pain, Their Gain,” on the U.S. Environmental Protection and abundance, are saying it will be tainty over the entire sector, Patriot that analyzes data from the EIA, the U.S. Agency’s greenhouse gas rules failed New Bill Seeks Moratorium on Mountaintop Removal Permits Black Lung Increasing in Appalachia difficult to recover. Coal filed for bankruptcy in July, hav- Mine Safety and Health Administration when a federal court ruled the EPA’s and self-reported data from 97 mines. interpretation of the Clean Air Act to In June, the Energy Information ing reported considerable losses every Representatives in Washington intro- by Christians for the Mountains, Coal River According to a report by the Upper Big Branch mine explosion According to the report, exports from pursue the regulation of carbon dioxide Administration reported that during the year since 2010. The St. Louis-based duced a bill that would halt permitting for Mountain Watch and Mountain Health & Center for Public Integrity and NPR in 2010, 17 had signs of black lung mountaintop removal mines in Ken- to be “unambiguously correct.” month of April natural gas-fired electric- spin-off of Peabody Energy lost nearly mountaintop removal coal mining until Heritage Association. News, black lung in coal miners is — some of whom had spent fewer tucky, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Industry leaders and politicians ity caught up to its coal-burning coun- $200 million in the fiscal year that ended federal studies on health impacts can be According to author Wendell Berry, not only still very much around, than 10 years in mines. The report Virginia have increased by 91 percent who lambast President Obama’s “war terpart. Both sources contributed about March 31 and had collected more than conducted. “As certain people of the Eastern Kentucky it’s actually growing worse. The goes on to look at issues in the since 2009. Some of the mines exported on coal” are backed by miners and fami- 32 percent of total electricity generated $3 billion in debt. Thirteen congressional representa- coalfields helped me to understand nearly 50 report incorporates research by Mining Safety and Health Admin- 100 percent of their production in 2011. lies that depend on the coal industry for in the United States during that month. In an effort to save itself, Patriot tives from nine states unveiled H.R. 5959, years ago, the fate of the land and the fate of the National Institute for Occupa- istration inspection process as well their living and are fearful of its uncer- In domestic markets, coal is fi- had increased exports to China, the “The coal may be shipped to for- the Appalachian Communities Health the people are inseparable. Whatever affects tional Safety and Health that shows as endemic corruption in the coal tain future. Recently, the coal industry’s nally facing a true competitor and world’s largest coal consumer and eign markets,” Rep. Markey said the Emergency Act in mid-June, with the help the health of the land must affect the health black lung cases have increased 3.2 industry which leads coal miners, rhetoric spurred one of its most ardent investors are taking note. “Get out of a nation that looms large for United day the report was released, “but the of the Appalachian Community Health of the people.” percent in the past decade, and the fearful of losing their jobs, to cheat diseases, the destroyed mountaintops, Congressional supporters to speak out. Emergency organization, a non-profit col- For more information about the ACHE prevalence of the most severe form when taking air dust samples for and the environmental ruin from these “The reality is that many who run laborative grassroots campaign established Act, visit: stoptheache.org. of the disease has tripled since the inspectors. To read the full report, destructive practices are staying right the coal industry today would rather 1980s. Out of 24 victims from the visit iwatchnews.org. here in America.” attack false enemies and deny real In Brief Recent public backlash in response problems than find solutions,” West “What a great magazine!” to proposed ports and the expansion Virginia Sen. John Rockefeller said on Whistleblower Gets His Day: A fed- coal plant in St. Paul, Va., fired up in Nearly Fatal Failure to Com- It’s Hard Being the Alpha: For the cleanup efforts and fines. July after four years of construction. In another blow for the massive coal of exports on the west coast will not the Senate floor in June. “Scare tactics eral judge ordered a West Virginia coal municate: Following a surprise second time this year, environmental company to allow Charles Scott How- According to Dominion, the 585-mega- federal MSHA inspection that uncov- organizations headed by the Sierra company, the Office of Surface mining “I discovered your be easily overcome. Nor will the chal- are a cynical waste of time, money, and ard to return to his mining job and also watt plant is one of the “cleanest U.S. ered enough violations to shut down Club have filed suit against subsidiaries overturned a West Virginia Department magazine while visiting lenges associated with geographic worst of all coal miners’ hopes. But pay a $30,000 fine for discriminating coal-fired power stations in terms of a Harlan County, Ky., mine for nearly of coal giant Alpha Natural Resources of Environmental Protection decision to and found it to be distance and transportation change sadly, these coal operators have closed against a whistleblower. Cumberland air emissions with one of the nation’s a week and a half this spring, a state over selenium pollution. The latest suit retroactively extend a 2,000-acre moun- River Coal Co. and its parent company, strictest air permits.” Grassroots pres- targets nine surface mines in West taintop removal permit along Coal River – analysts believe Australia and Indo- themselves off from any other opposing inspector was reprimanded for finding uplifting and delightful! Arch Coal, reportedly fired Howard for sure during the permitting phase of no problems at the same mine in nearly Virginia and is asking for fines up to Valley eight months after the three-year I plan on moving to your nesia rather than the United States are voices and few dared to speak out for reporting unsafe conditions at a Cum- the plant resulted in stricter emissions 30 inspections during the two and a half $37,500 per day of violation, some limit had expired. WVDEP is currently in the best position to appease China’s change – even though it’s been staring berland River mine. The ruling marks limits, including a 94 percent reduction years leading up to the federal review. of which date back to 2007, as well undergoing an audit by the state. area and am thrilled to the third time that Howard, known for in mercury emissions and 82 percent as monitoring and cleanup. A similar demand for coal. them in the face for years.” The inspector reportedly failed to cite reporting safety violations, has been reduction in acid-rain producing sulfur the mine for potentially fatal violations lawsuit targeting two other mines was stay in touch through For Appalachian coal miners, the reinstated to his job by the courts. from Dominion’s original proposal. The including a non-working fire suppres- launched in May, and last December . . . your magnificent plant is allowed annual greenhouse sion system, an unsupported roof and Alpha settled a case with the same All Fired Up: Despite statewide resis- gas emissions equivalent to the emis- potential fire hazards. groups that called for $50 million in magazine online.” tance, Dominion Power’s Wise County sions of nearly one million cars. —Best, Changing Winds on Air Pollution Standards Karen from California whose parents live in By Molly Moore troduced a resolution to block the rule, Vilas, NC BarBeCue reStaurant & but a slim majority of senators voted to Back in December, environmental atering erviCe uphold the air toxics standards. C S advocates cheered the arrival of the Just weeks after the rule was sup- EPA’s long-awaited Mercury and Air ported in the Senate, the EPA announced Toxics Standards, which will limit the Open 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun.- Thur. that it will review the standards and fo- amount of mercury, arsenic, selenium, Open 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Fri. & Sat. cus on how the rules will affect five par- cyanide and other toxins released by 828-737-0771 ticular planned power plants, including 8304 Valley Blvd (HWY 321 Bypass) PO Box 976, Linville, NC 28646 new power plants. Plant Washington in Georgia. Industry Blowing Rock, NC 28605 At stores & businesses almost everywhere in the High Country ... and online at The agency estimates the rule will and public health groups are watching CarolinaMountainLifeMagazine.com prevent as many as 11,000 premature to see how the EPA’s review impacts [email protected] deaths and 4,700 heart attacks a year. the strength of the pollution standards. order online: In June, Oklahoma Sen. Jim Inhofe in- Restaurant (828) 295-3651 Catering (828) 295-3395 www.blizzardbalm.com chattanooga, tn Page 18 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September | The Appalachian Voice | Page 19 The Blueberry Years: An Ode to Farming and Family Editorial Reviewed by Kara Dodson oir. Bur Minick’s patient prose There are dark parts among the friendships are only found when they’re sunny stories. Fearing the “failure of this not sought out, much like that perfect The story of Jim and draws you in until you are part What’s Our Water Really Worth? blueberry dream of a farm” and feeling berry that Minick aptly describes as an Sarah Minick’s years man- of his challenges, his suc- As our most precious natural resource, clean drinking loneliness hovering, the Minicks reach “elemental, unrefined, sun-water-earth- aging a blueberry farm cesses and his shortcomings. water, all-too-quickly becomes a scarce commodity for global out for friendship within church commu- and-air-created color of blue.” read as sweet as a warm, The first surprise hits communities, it is also turning into a hot commodity for mul- nities and hippy communes. But lasting ripe berry plucked from the in chapter one when a hasty tinational corporations. bush. The courageous and delivery man, alarmed by According to a United Nations Global Environment Out- how backcountry the area was being dynamited to cre- look study, two-thirds of the world’s population is expected loving young homesteaders was, unloaded a thousand Stand Up That ate a gravel quarry for nearby to face water shortages by 2025. And to assess and prepare recount ten years of prepar- blueberry bushes on the side Mountain: highway construction. for those shortages, some of the world’s wealthiest corpora- ing, planting, and picking to of the road. The unfamiliar A Contemporary Tale of tions have created a series of maps that inventory the world’s bring alive a shared dream: an Leutze is a gifted story- farmers were left hauling the groundwater aquifers. organic, pick-your-own blue- Conservation teller and in “Stand Up That precious “kids” to a creekside Monoliths of the global economy such as Goldman Sachs, berry farm in Floyd County, By Brian Sewell Mountain,” the characters — Va., that welcomes seasoned home still in pots. Two months some unwavering in their quest Dow Chemical Company, Bloomberg, GE and Coca-Cola have In the movement to end de- teamed up under the moniker Aqueduct Alliance to detail hydro- pickers and newcomers alike. later the plants were nestled in to save Belview Mountain and the newly plowed field down structive mining practices that logical data on the world’s largest river basins, giving investors In “The Blueberry Years,” others intent on its destruc- the road from the farmhouse, have made parts of Appalachia unprecedented details of international water availability. Minick poetically recalls tion — carry the story. This book each given a simple prayer: a sacrifice zone, stories of David versus It appears that the insatiable ilk of Big Business is deciding young pickers’ first buckets, breakfasts will appeal to conservationists, activists “Grow, little plant.” Goliath proportions often emerge. In how to divvy up our water. in the field, and a sun-struck worm who and anyone interested in the underdog Over the course of the book, Jim and “Stand Up That Mountain,” Jay Erskine Privatization of water resources — or leasing public utilities saved the farm. Split into five parts and stories of Appalachia that may begin with to private corporations — is well-known in many parts of the Sarah welcome hundreds of pickers to Leutze relates his own underdog tale in very short chapters, the book is a breeze a simple phone call asking for help. world, but is only now becoming more common in the United their rural retreat to share laughs, stories personal and powerful fashion. to read, each page offering small insights States. In some developing nations, privatizing water utilities and lots of blueberries. They nourished It all began the day that Leutze re- into the lives of two young teachers- has helped build much-needed infrastructure in communities Viewpoint the land to make a living and cultivated ceived a phone call from a 14-year-old turned-farmers. previously lacking access to fresh, clean water. But in several communities to strengthen the web of life. girl who told him that Belview Mountain, I wasn’t expecting to reach personal cases, privatization has also resulted in higher rates and poorer Witnessing the Transformative Power of Water To me, this is true Appalachia. near her home in Avery County, N.C., water quality — in one instance resulting in the worst cholera epiphanies from a blueberry farm mem- outbreak in South African history. By Ryan Robinson fered the opportunity to join a heap of challenging rapids, Today, nearly 70 million Americans get their tap water by crew for a whitewater canoeing but in the end we arrived at Fracking’s Impact are used in fracking fluid because many safeguards that protect water and health. In May I spent three days states have “trade secrets” exemptions In North Carolina, Gov. Bev Perdue ve- way of private companies who have struck lease agreements course, I could not pass it up. our desired take-out location Continued from page 10 navigating the ancient Chat- toed legislation that would have allowed with public municipalities. According to consumer rights group The Chattooga was fa- in one piece. The experience on that allow companies to keep fracking tooga River with North Caro- treatment before it can be released back recipes secret from other companies. In fracking, but her veto was overridden by Food and Water Watch, those residents pay an average of 33 per- miliar to me. Last fall I was the river left a major footprint lina Outward Bound School, into bodies of water. Pennsylvania, a new law allows doctors the state legislature. Many groups, like the cent more for their water than residents on public water sources. introduced to the river in a on my heart and mind. With many of the nation’s urban areas facing funding an organization that has used According to Dusty Horwitt, senior to find out what’s in the fracking fluid, Ohio Environmental Council, have called whitewater kayak. My confi- The Chattooga, declared a shortfalls, the lure of handing off water supply projects to the Chattooga for many years counsel for the Environmental Working but forbids them from telling other doc- for a moratorium on fracking until proper dence, however, was somewhat National Wild and Scenic river private companies with deeper pockets can be irresistible. But to help individuals develop Group, there have been cases in Penn- tors. Some physicians say the law doesn’t regulations are put into place. diminished by the fact that this in 1974, is an amazing wilder- Used, the results are not always positive. In one example cited in character through challenge sylvania of wastewater going to sewage specify what they can tell patients, thus As studies, research and legislation time I would be running the ness playground. There isn’t The Daily Beast, United Water, an American subsidiary of the and self-discovery. treatment plants or industrial facilities putting them at risk of unknowingly struggle to keep up with the rapid expan- Rare & Out river in a tandem canoe. Lin- any development in sight. Pad- multinational corporation Suez, shut down sewage pumps in For centuries the Chat- that don’t adequately remove chemical violating the law. sion of fracking across the country, one of Print Books the city of Milwaukee in order to save money — and dumped tooga River has been witness ing up a tandem canoe for a dling the river provides a sense pollution and pass the water on to rivers In response to growing health con- thing is clear: there are many questions billions of gallons of raw sewage into Lake Michigan. The city Specializing in to thousands of events and host rapid is a major feat compared of liberation. You might see the without proper treatment. Wastewater has cerns, the Southwest Pennsylvania En- but few answers. Fracking is an inherently of Gary, Ind., cancelled a 12-year contract with the same com- Books about Black to many accolades. The river to lining up a kayak. Clear occasional fisherman or fellow also been directly dumped, or spilled, into vironmental Health Project opened an risky process, Horwitt says, but the exact pany, claiming their dealings with United Water had more than Mountain College and assertive communication boater, but overall the river is creeks and rivers, Horwitt says. office this year to serve as a resource to risk and magnitude are only beginning doubled annual operating costs. served as a major resource to is needed to be successful, and solely yours as you navigate A study published this year by Cor- people who have health problems related to emerge. Individual citizens and the environment are typically the the Cherokee Nation. It also rolling a flipped tandem canoe its waters. nell University examined multiple reports to natural gas drilling operations. Raina biggest losers when profits are on the line. With quarterly gains provided the stage for Burt into an upright position is like Whitewater canoeing is of farm and companion animals dying for shareholders as their primary concern, private companies Reynolds’ daring paddle trip Rippel, the project’s director, says people trying to hit a baseball with like taming a mustang. It takes after drinking water contaminated with come in with problems ranging from skin Organ have no incentive to encourage water conservation or water- through the rural South in the UY ic wastewater from fracking operations. Soil B quality protection, and dwindling reservoir supplies and in- 1972 classic, “Deliverance.” your eyes closed. patience, ease, determination, disorders to gastrointestinal concerns. tests from a cow pasture contaminated “We cannot determine the exact ex- creasing population demands will ultimately drive up prices. And in 2012, the river helped Together, my co-paddler grit and a lot of luck. The posi- by leaked wastewater had high levels posure pathways and toxic contaminants In other words, selling a fundamental resource that people facilitate the most self-defining and I covered 20 miles in three tive impact whitewater boat- literally cannot live without is good for big business. And now of strontium, which can be toxic to both creating these symptoms,” Rippel says. experience I have ever had. days. Through this Outward ing can have is immeasurable, we have proof that corporations are thirstily eyeing the world’s animals and people. According to the “However, chemicals associated with I work for North Carolina Bound experience I was chal- and the Chattooga offers boat- reservoirs with dollar signs swimming in their eyes. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease the flowback water, and contamination Outward Bound School in sales lenged, pushed, snapped ers a memorable adventure As National Geographic famously published in 1993, “All the and reeled back in. We dealt and the opportunity to push Registry, strontium is a naturally occur- associated with holding ponds, accidental and marketing. Therefore, my Jean & Carl Franklin Powered water that will ever be is, right now.” This is all we get. We must ring element, but eating or drinking large spills, runoff, etc., are likely culprits.” by (PV) with copperheads, lightening their limits. 103 Cherry Street Solar Cells ensure that our water remains a publicly owned resource for all experience in the field is lim- amounts of it can be lethal. B storms, communication bar- Even in states where fracking is cur- U E Black Mountain, NC 28711 to use efficiently, without a price tag determined by the high- ited to visits to basecamps and . . . Y aD riers, wet sandwiches and a The Health Response rently illegal, citizens are grappling with Fair Tr (828) 669-8149 est bidder. Because water is, and always should be, priceless. personal excursions. When of- the industry and legislators to ensure It’s not clear exactly what chemicals BlueSmokeCoffee.com [email protected] Page 20 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September | The Appalachian Voice | Page 21 INSIDE APPALACHIAN VOICES About Our Program Work INSIDE APPALACHIAN VOICES About Our Program Work Executive Director of a small non-profit A Hearty Thanks to Our Appalachian Voices is committed to Saying Hello and Goodbye Artists for Appalachia Help Us Celebrate 15 Years protecting the land, air and water group promoting land conservation in Selfless Summer Interns of the Central and Southern At Appalachian Voices, we are communications and the foothills of Rappahannock County. While we are fortunate each season to Appalachian region. Our mission is By Kayti Wingfield to empower people to defend our fortunate to share our work with some policy. She was Senior Nathan lives with his wife, Kara, on his gather to us many fine interns from around region’s rich natural and cultural the region, this summer we had a bumper What better way is there to of the finest minds in the conservation Communications Man- family’s land in Etlan, Va. heritage by providing them with crop of 12 impressive, highly qualified celebrate 15 years of protecting the movement, and this year is no excep- ager at the Southern A Fond Farewell tools and strategies for successful tion. We would like to welcome three Environmental Law young minds helping us in all capacities. beautiful and unique Appalachian grassroots campaigns. We also must bid adieu For our very busy and growing state exciting new additions to our team, Center where she super- region than bringing people to- to two long-time and devoted campaigns, Stacy Casey (SIT Graduate gether with Appalachian-inspired Organizational Staff expanding our expertise exponentially vised media relations Institute) handled volunteer recruitment staff members and defenders of music and revelry? That’s what we as we move into the next 15 years. and communications and mobilization in Virginia, and Nick Amis Appalachia. Virginia Campaign Executive Director...... Willa Mays campaigns at the national, state and lo- (UT-Chattanooga) researched the impacts did on July 21 in Charlottesville, Directing Our Development Coordinator Mike McCoy, a keystone in OPERATIONS & DEVELOPMENT cal level. Her work has appeared in The of mining on waterways in Tennessee. Va., when hundreds of members Director of Development...... Kevin Jones Kevin Jones, joins us from the “Lib- our fight to stop the Hampton Roads coal- Erin Burks (UNC-CH) helped to create from across the region joined us as Washington Post, The New York Times, and Artists who provided inspiring Controller...... Susan Congelosi erty and Prosperity” state of New Jersey fired power plant and promote energy ef- the informational building blocks for our outlets throughout the South. An award- we commemorated 15 great years performances for the evening Operations Manager...... Shay Boyd as our new Director of ficiency in the Commonwealth, leaves us upcoming Red, White and Water website. winning reporter for The Roanoke Times, working with you to protect Central included The Honey Dewdrops and Director of Leadership Gifts ...... Kayti Wingfield Development, and has for a dream position working on a sheep In Washington, D.C., our two Stan- Trent Wagler from Steel Wheels (top Operations and Outreach Associate ...... Maeve Gould Cat received her B.A. from UT Knoxville, and Southern Appalachia. back fellows from Duke University, Emily Yu left), Grammy winner Kathy Mattea served an inspired life- farm along the wild New Zealand coast- The Artists for Appalachia eve- PROGRAMS and masters in journalism from UC and Dillion Buckner, worked with our end (top right), and Jessica Tzou and time so far in the environ- line. Technologist Benji Burrell, ning would not have been possible Director of Programs...... Matt Wasson Berkeley. She recently completed the mountaintop removal campaign team to Michael Johnathon. Sponsors of the ment, conservation and who for many years has cham- Deputy Program Director / Va Director...... Tom Cormons Virginia Natural Resources Leadership gain additional support for the Clean Water without the amazing artists that event enjoyed a special dinner at Campaign Director...... Lenny Kohm human rights sectors. pioned the iLoveMountains.org Protection Act and prepare for grassroots joined us on stage. The evening Positively 4th Street in downtown Institute and serves on the board of the Washington, D.C. Director ...... Kate Rooth He previously managed website, delved into the depths organizing during the election season. Charlottesville (below). Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary. A Yankee included rousing performances by Appalachia — a place where we National Field Organizer ...... Kate Finneran local and statewide non- The Appalachian Water Watch of programming data and pro- Kentuckians Michael Johnathon are all connected. Legislative Associate ...... Thom Kay transplant to Appalachia, Cat says that team’s interns, Kara Dodson (Virginia Wheels, as well as a profoundly profit and political campaigns while duced outstanding video materials, is and Daniel Martin Moore, country Tennessee Director ...... J.W. Randolph she is “honored to work with Appa- Tech), Jillian Kenny (ASU) and Pallavi Po- The artists closed the night by simultaneously overseeing development headed off to provide critical support for inspiring headline appearance by North Carolina Campaign Coordinator...... Sandra Diaz lachian Voices’ staff, board, members, dapati (UPenn), traveled to Kentucky and fusion band 2/3 Goat, Charlot- joining together on stage to sing a operations for the National AIDS fund. the medical field in Asheville, N.C. We Grammy award-winning artist and Virginia Campaign Coordinator...... Nathan Jenkins contributors and activists to protect this Virginia to provide support to our citizen tesville’s own The Honey Dew- very appropriate song, “Jubliee.” Water Quality Specialist ...... Eric Chance Prior to that, he worked with science and will miss them both, and wish them much West Virginia native Kathy Mattea. magnificent region.” water monitors, and compiled seemingly drops and Trent Wagler of the Steel Just as songwriter Jean Ritchie Water Quality Specialist ...... Erin Savage environmental educators Dr. Sylvia Earle success in their new endeavors! endless state water quality data for review. Keynote speaker Jeff Goodell, wrote, “Swing and turn/ Jubilee/ Technology & Communications and Jean Michele Cousteau as Director Coordinating Virginia Clifford Shaw (ASU) helped our IT a contributing editor of An Ardent Thank You Live and learn/ Jubilee,” we must Director of Communications...... Cat McCue of the U.S. Pavilion for Lisbon’s World team build a database of highly useful Rolling Stone magazine Nathan Jenkins, originating from a celebrate Appalachia and we must IT Specialist...... Jeff Deal And last but not least, we would coal data, and leaves to begin a position and the author of “Big Expo called, “The Oceans: Heritage for long line of farmers in Virginia’s foot- continue to learn how to protect it Communications Coordinator...... Jamie Goodman like to extend the most hearty of thanks with a regional software design firm. Coal,” shared his own un- Americorps Communications Outreach...... Brian Sewell the Future.” Kevin is also a certified fa- hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, joins better. We promise that, with your to our Americorps members for this The Appalachian Voice team bids a mericorps ublic utreach ducation cilitator for the “Awakening the Dreamer, likely journey of becom- A P O & E ...... Molly Moore our Charlottesville of- fond farewell to Editorial Assistant Jessica help, Appalachian Voices will con- year, Molly Moore and Brian Sewell, ing a standard-bearer for Graphic Designer...... Meghan Darst Changing the Dream” sustainability fice as our new Virginia Kennedy (UNC-CH) and Online Assistant tinue to do so for another 15 years. who went above and beyond in the cre- environmental health and INTERNS symposium and serves on the board of Campaign Coordinator. Anna Norwood (ASU), as well as our To see pictures, watch video and ation of this publication. What’s more, Stanback Mountaintop Removal Fellow ....Dillon Buckner trustees of United for a Fair Economy. Originally an IT profes- spring/early summer Editorial Assistant encouraged the crowd to both have committed to working with listen to clips from the evening, visit Stanback Mountaintop Removal Fellow ...... Emily Yu Kevin is a former priest who “sees my Madison Hinshaw (ASU), all who delved stand up for a just and sional, Nathan returned appvoices.org/artistsforappalachia. Virginia Campaign Assistant ...... Stacy Casey App Voices for the forseeable future, so into the world of investigative research work in promoting a health of our planet to school and obtained a sustainable transition in N.C. Campaign Assistant ...... Erin Burks our communications will be even better and also went above and beyond in the and the mother forest of the Appalachias masters in environmen- N.C. Campaign Assistant ...... Tabitha Lunsford in the coming year! search for Appalachia’s Hidden Treasures. Tennessee Mining Research Assistant ...... Nick Amis as a divinely inspired call.” tal studies from Vermont Law School. Coal Data Assistant ...... Clifford Garth Following law school, he has worked to Become a Mountain Protector Today! A Master Communicator Water Program Assistant ...... Kara Dodson support Clean Water Act and Clean Air Organizational Roundup Water Program Assistant ...... Pallavi Podapati Also joining us this summer is our Become a Act litigation with the Natural Resources Water Program Assistant ...... Jillian Kenny new Director of Communications, Cat Making Music to support our work to create a better future for Mountain Protector Editorial Communications Assistant ...... Jessica Kennedy Law Clinic, served as a law clerk for Judge McCue. Cat joins us with more than two Support Mountaintops Appalachia! Tent camping and limited RV monthly supporter Online & Communications Assistant ...... Anna Norwood John Berry in Culpeper, and became the camping available. Visit musiconthemoun- Name of Member ______decades of experience in environmental This August 24-26, join us at the 5th at $15/month (in taintop.com for all the details. Annual Music on the Mountaintop Festi- honor of our 15th anniversary!) Address ______Board of Directors val near Boone, N.C. Nestled at the foot of Noble Nuptials and receive a special gift pack- City ______State ______Zip ______Chair ------Christina Howe majestic Grandfather Mountain, this 3-day, AppalachianVoices When Ann Kingston and her new hus- age including a CD and DVD from Vice Chair ------Heidi Binko environmentally friendly festival will feature Phone ______Email ______band, John, got married, they decided to Secretary ------Cale Jaffe Business League Railroad Earth, Sam Bush, Dr. Dog, The Dirty Woodsongs Old Time Radio add a different spin to their bridal registry by Yes, I would like the special Michael Johnathon CD/DVD set! Please make me a Treasurer ------Bunk Spann New & Renewing Memb Dozen Brass Band, and numerous other lo- Hour’s very own Michael Johna- ers — June / July 2012 including donations to Appalachian Voices Mountain Protector (monthly contributer) at $ ______/month ($15 minimum) Members-At-Large cal, regional and national acts. Appalachian as part of their gift options. Thanks to their thon. Supplies are limited, so join Clara Bingham Silas House Brenda Sigmon Voices has been chosen once again to be For one-time contributions, visit our website at www.AppalachianVoices.org/donate The Rock Barn — Arrington, Va. Blue Truck Soup — Scottsville, Va. generous gesture, and to their friends and now. The package includes: Rev. Jim Deming Landra Lewis Lauren Waterworth the featured non-profit organization at the family, the inventive pair collected a total of MC/VISA # ______Expiration date ______Dot Griffith Rick Phelps Willa Mays (Ex- Rag Mountain Trout — Caromont Farms — Esmont, Va. festival and will receive a portion of the pro- Mary Anne Hitt Kathy Selvage officio) Madison County, Va. $695 for the organization! We send our heart- • Front Porch, a new CD by Michael Signature______Poet Man Records, USA — ceeds. Come out and enjoy some amazing felt thanks and congratulations to the happy Johnathon Advisory Council AM Fog — Afton, Va. Jonathan C. Allen Randy Hayes Lexington, Ky live music, experience the social awareness • Walden: The Ballad of Thoreau, a Mail to: Appalachian Voices · 171 Grand Boulevard, Boone, NC 28607 couple, who helped save mountains and Jessica Barbara Brown Liz Riddick of the non-profit village, and simultaneously DVD by Michael Johnathon To become a business member visit AppalachianVoices.org or call us at 877-APP-VOICE communities through their selfless act of love. Alfred Glover Van Jones

Page 22 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012 August/September | The Appalachian Voice | Page 23 Non-Profit The Appalachian Voice Organization US Postage Paid 171 Grand Boulevard Permit No. 294 Boone, NC 28607 Boone, NC www.appalachianvoices.org

And a river runs through it: The entirety of the majestic, 340-mile-long James River, from Blue Ridge Mountain beginning to coastal end, resides in Virginia. Approximately 10,000 square miles — nearly 25 percent of the Commonwealth — comprise the river’s watershed, and is home to one-third of all Virginians. According to the James River Association, the river “touches the lives of Commonwealth residents more than any other feature on the landscape.” Photo by Benji Burrell GET INVOLVED environmental & cultural events in the region Email [email protected] to be included in our Floyd Country Store Traditional bands in the beautiful Grandfather Mountain Terrapin Hill Harvest Festival Appalachian Music area of the Appalachian Mountains. This festi- Sept. 7-9: Music festival featuring a Get Involved listing. Deadline for the next issue Thurs.-Sat. throughout summer: The val has given $12,000 back to local non-profit wide spectrum of musical styles by over will be Sunday, Sept. 30, at 5 p.m. for events Floyd Country Store, home of the Friday night organizations, AIRE, Appalachian Voices, and 20 bands, food and craft vendors, kids taking place between Oct. 10 and Dec. 5. Jamboree, hosts regional Appalachian music Mountain Alliance. General Admission $99. playground, fire dancers, bonfires, and Thursdays through Sunday. Visit: floydcoun- Single day tickets available as well. Grandfather family camping. Weekend pass $90 in Rooted in the Mountains: Valuing trystore.com Mountain Campground, N.C. Visit: musiconthe- advance, $110 at the gate. $5 per vehicle park- mountaintop.com ing fee. Free camping next to your vehicle. Har- our Common Ground Holler in the Holler 2012 rodsburg, Ky. Visit: terrapinhillfarm.com/festival Oct. 4-5: Designed to raise awareness of Aug. 10-12: An annual music and arts festival Outdoor KnoxFest health and environmental consequences of in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Aug 24-26: A three-day outdoor festival Organic Gardening Workshop mountaintop removal coal mining. Participants Enjoy a variety of music from bluegrass to jazz, benefiting Legacy Parks Foundation. For the Sept. 8: All-day workshop on organic garden- will go away with a new sense of urgency and as well as many other activities such as work- adventurous outdoor lovers. Events include ing. Subjects covered will include: composting, tools to use in valuing our common ground. shops and even hula hooping. Ticket prices the 3 Day Anglers Carp Cup, the Urban Trail growing in raised beds, lasagna gardening, Western Carolina University, N.C. For more in- vary. HomeGrown Hideaways, Berea, Ky. For Race, Bike and Boat Rentals and more. Rates cold frames winter gardening, beneficial insect formation, contact Pamela Duncan at (828)227- more information, or to purchase tickets visit: and registration at active.com. Knoxville, Tenn. promotion, mulching, gardening by the moon 3926 or email [email protected] homegrownhideaways.org Visit: outdoorknoxville.com. and more. Registration deadline: Sept. 1. Visit: ForestRetreats.net Bethel Half Marathon & 5K Race Earth Sabbath Celebration Clear Creek Festival Oct 13: This race is Bethel Rural Community Aug. 13, 7 p.m.: Step out of your hectic life Aug. 31 & Sept. 1-2: A homecoming for Wellness and Water: Health Im- Organization’s main fundraiser for the year. into a joyful celebration of the mystery and you and yours over Labor Day weekend. The pacts of Fossil Fuel Extraction They are a small non-profit organization that meaning of the universe. A time for community stage will be graced with great artists, healing Sept. 8: Conference sponsored by OVEC and raises money to go toward farmland and rural with people caring for creation. Open and free and rejuvenation in a family-friendly, loving the WV Chapter of the Sierra Club. Speaker Wil- preservation. Haywood County, N.C. Reigster to the public. Asheville, N.C. For more info, con- environment. Rockcastle County, Ky. Visit: ma Subra, workshops and panels with impacted online: bethelrural.org. tact: Jean Larson, [email protected]. clearcreekfest.org residents, and experts including Dr. Ben Stout Changing of the Leaves Festival and Dr. Michael Hendryx. Registration begins at 8 Stand up that Mountain Beech Mountain Mile High Kite See mountaintop removal and cel- a.m. $10 suggested donation. Morgantown First Oct 13-14: Aug. 23, 6:30 p.m.: Presentation by author, Festival ebrate Appalachian culture with Larry Gibson Presbyterian Church, W.Va. Contact Robin Blake- Jay Leutze on his novel, “Stand Up That Moun- Sept. 2, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: A great tradition and other inspiring mountainkeepers. Kayford man at [email protected] or call (304)522-0246. tain: The Battle to Save One Small Community with lots of color and fun activities for kids of Mtn, W.Va. Learn more: mountainkeeper. in the Wilderness Along the Appalachian Trail.” all ages. There will be a kite decorating sta- West Virginia Wind Forum blogspot.com Reception and book signing afterwards. Cataw- tion, kite store, flying competition, face paint- Sept. 25: Tour the AES Laurel Mountain wind SOCM Turns 40! ba College, Salisbury, N.C. More information ing, food and craft vendors. Free event, the and energy storage facility in Elkins, W.Va. Oct. 20: Help Tennesseans celebrate 40 years and registration: centerfortheenvironment.org. first 300 children 12 and under will receive a Canaan Valley Resort & Conference center, of SOCM (Statewide Organizing for Community free kite. Free parking. Beech Mountain, N.C. Davis, W.Va. Registration for both the forum Music on the Mountaintop eMpowerment) history. For more information, Visit:beechmtn.com and the AES facility tour is open at: marshall. Aug 24-26: Join Appalachian Voices at this visit: socm.org. edu/cegas/events/wvwind annual music festival featuring 15 diverse Page 24 | The Appalachian Voice | August/September 2012