Last Updated on June 2, 2023
Rivers of live run through Western North Carolina. They sustain plants and animals seen nowhere else in the world. They support a national forest known worldwide for its range of biodiversity. And WNC rivers have played an important role in facilitating tourism and trade.
But their popularity among humans for manufacturing and recreation has led to a loss of water quality around many mountain communities. In recent years, many local organizations have stepped up to ensure that our rivers remain lifegivers for generations to come.
One such organization is Haywood Waterways Association. We invite you to learn more about what they do and how you can help them meet their mission.
What is Haywood Waterways Association?
At their core, Haywood Waterways Association’s mission is to improve surface water quality in the Pigeon River Watershed of Haywood County. They direct efforts at reducing nonpoint source pollution through two objectives: education and implementation of water improvement strategies. Education and outreach instill environmentally responsible behaviors to provide the best long-term benefits our waterways. Critical partnerships with public agencies, conservation interests, businesses, community groups, and public and private landowners allow the nonprofit to assist with regional, state, and even national conservation efforts.
Over the past 20 years, Haywood Waterways has won many awards for their work across the region. Recent awards include the Education/Outreach Award at the Tennessee River Celebration Awards and a Community Pride Award from Haywood County Commission for a Clean County.
Help us support Haywood Waterways Association
According to data collected by Haywood Waterways, Haywood County has some of the best water anywhere in the Southeast. Unfortunately, it also has some of the worst. Here are just a few of the many ways you can help support the local water quality efforts of Haywood Waterways:
Volunteer – Collecting water quality data is critical for understanding the health of our watersheds. Join the Volunteer Water Information Network (VWIN) and collect monthly water samples for testing. Other ways to volunteer include everything from Adopt-A-Stream stream clean-ups or organizing a watershed hike to helping out at events and festivals.
Become a Member – Haywood Waterways is a member-based organization. Keep Haywood Waterways a strong, successful organization now and into the future by becoming an annual member.
Take the Plunge – Save the date for February, when participants plunge into icy Lake Junaluska to benefit Haywood Waterways’ Kids in the Creek and youth education programs. Costumes are encouraged and “Plunger” trophies are awarded to the top fundraisers and best costumes.
Get more by giving back
Every day, Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks is impressed by our agents and staff for their involvement in strengthening community efforts through service and financial support. We encourage you to get involved, too.
Help preserve our local waterways now and in the future! Give of your time and money to an organization that means something to you. Reach out to Haywood Waterways Association or contact your Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks agent to learn about local efforts to improve the environment in your community.
Haywood Waterways Association
P.O. Box 389, Waynesville | (828) 476-4667
