WOODFIN, N.C. (AP) — In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, indigenous communities are stepping forward to reclaim and restore their land. Clancy Loorham, motivated by a deep connection to the waterways, is one of many who have volunteered to remove debris from the rivers that flow through their ancestral homes.
“I found a catfish stuck in a pipe today,” Loorham exclaimed as he and fellow volunteers sorted through wreckage in the French Broad River, navigating through the waters to gather debris that has accumulated since the storm struck.
Nearly a year ago, Helene unleashed torrential rains, sweeping away homes, vehicles, and industrial materials. The hurricane resulted in over 250 fatalities and caused approximately $80 billion worth of damage across multiple states.
The cleanup effort, particularly focused on the stream channels devastated by the storm, is spearheaded by local organizations, including MountainTrue, which received a $10 million grant for restoration projects aimed at revitalizing waterways and local habitats.
However, environmentalists warn that recovery efforts must be approached with caution. Jon Stamper, river cleanup coordinator for MountainTrue, noted instances of contractors damaging ecosystems during debris removal operations, highlighting the delicate balance that must be maintained between urgent recovery and ecological preservation.
“I’ve seen healthy trees cut down that provide vital habitats for local fish,” Stamper remarked, emphasizing the importance of trees in stabilizing riverbanks and supporting biodiversity. His perspective reflects a broader concern among conservationists about the methods used in recovery operations post-disaster.
As this recovery continues, the involvement of indigenous volunteers highlights the deep-rooted connection these communities maintain with their environment. Vickie and Paul Revis, whose home was destroyed by the hurricane, represent the resilience of locals anchoring themselves to their land amidst ongoing challenges. They are set to move into a newly donated home elevated on a mound of earth, a proactive measure against future flooding.
“Mother Nature does whatever she wants to do, and you just have to roll with it,” Vickie explained, embodying the spirit of adaptation that indigenous practices often exemplify.
On the restoration front, community members are keen on ensuring that the rivers remain not just livable for humans but also for endangered species like the eastern hellbender salamander, which is facing threats from habitat loss exacerbated by the storm and subsequent cleanup efforts.
Despite these challenges, the determination and collective action seen among indigenous communities reflect a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. As members of these communities, including the cleanup crews, continue to work tirelessly along the French Broad River, they are not only restoring their home but also reclaiming their narrative in a world that continuously demands resilience and adaptability.
