Advocating for WNC’s Recovery After Hurricane Helene

Nov 21

[Updated from David] -

8 Weeks today since Helene struck... and the outdoor recreation economy in Western North Carolina remains devastated. 100,000+ structures damaged or destroyed and 100+ fatalities across 25 counties.

While we don't know exactly how much of the outdoor spaces have been affected, we have a pretty good idea. So the NC Outdoor Recreation Coalition invited voices from throughout the area, from all aspects of the outdoor industry, to come together and put forward specific recommendations to the legislature and governor.

We already have some pretty eye-opening data -- click through the press release below to see specific numbers (Spoiler alert: we can rebuild for a surprisingly small amount of funding). You can find the Endurance Sportswire press release here.

Indeed, if you're just joining us, NCOREC was created more than 7 years ago for exactly this purpose. A unified voice from the outdoor recreation ecosystem: tour and flyfishing guides, summer camps, river operators, Made-in-USA manufacturers, and the many non-profits that make all of this possible.

How You Can Help

If you believe in the power of the outdoors and want to see Western North Carolina thrive once again, here are ways to make a difference:

NCOREC invites community members, industry partners, and outdoor enthusiasts to stand with us in rebuilding WNC’s outdoor economy. Contact your local representatives to express your support for increased recovery funding for Western North Carolina.
NCOREC welcomes charitable donations to the “WNC Strong: Rebuilding Together Grant Fund,” for cash grants to businesses.
Donate to Rebuild Black Mountain Resilience Fund – Funds go directly to nonprofits working to restore trails, river access, and recreational spaces vital to the local economy.

Together, we can bring this region back from the brink and ensure that its businesses, natural spaces, and communities continue to inspire for generations to come.