The Hidden Treasures of Appalachia

15 Pages·2011·8.6 MB·English

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15 and Voice
June/July 2011
Eco-Tourism EdiTion
The Hidden
Treasures
of Appalachia
A State-by-state Guide I
n
s
Threats to Eco-Tourism
I
d
7 Waterfalls To See This Summer
e
The Seductive Beauty of Mountain Orchids • Pesticide Problems in Shady Valley
Also InsIde:
A
ppalachian Seeing the Forests Because We Left The Trees
The
A Note From the Executive Director
VOICE
By Jamie Goodman their area. Today, Lan- en areas in those states, the correlation
Dear Readers,
sing storefronts sit empty would be strikingly clear.
A publication of When I think of Appalachia, I conjure images of iconic vistas and AppTahlaec hreiag ihonas o mf coernet rnaal taionnda sl oluanthde ronf and the once charming Towns like Benham, Ky., which
AppalachianVoices gentle mountainscapes, ancient hills and hollows and towering trees and mountain town has a sad, once grew a thriving tourism trade, are
any other region east of the Rockies.
191 Howard Street • Boone, NC 28607 natural springs where the water is so clear that it reflects the seasons as If you combine just two of our eight neglected feel. now being threatened as dwindling
1-877-APP-VOICE it twists and tumbles across rocks to the valleys below. national forests—the adjacent George But although we coal supplies force companies to move
www.AppalachianVoices.org have a wealth of state extraction sites closer to populated
[email protected] I hear the voices of my ancestors, born-and-bred Appalachians with Washington and Jefferson national and federally-designated areas. Outdoor recreation destinations
Appalachian Voices is committed to protecting the land, air a quiet pride in their traditions, their art, and I know that preserving and protecting these forests—you have one of the largest land, Appalachia is also such as Boone, N.C., cave to pressure
and water of the central and southern Appalachian region. chunks of public land in the eastern U.S.
Our mission is to empower people to defend our region’s rich lands and all that they hold is of paramount importance. That region encompasses 39 counties in faced with serious is- from state agencies against items such
natural and cultural heritage by providing them with tools and When coal companies think of Appalachia, the visions that pass before them are not of Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky hnaatripoenrasl cFroereeks tt, rnacil, pisgah sues that threaten the as providing bike lanes to enhance the
strategies for successful grassroots campaigns. Appalachian tranquil beauty that has town—perks that would elevate Appa-
Voices sponsors the Upper Watauga Riverkeeper® and is also mountains and streams. The shades of green they see come not from the region’s bio-diverse and includes notable spotlights like photo by Jamie Goodman helped some communi- lachian towns to rival the tourist meccas
Shenandoah National Park, Rapidan
a Member of the Waterkeeper® Alliance. flora, but rather from the sterile profit they equate with our mountains. 34-mile Virginia Creeper biking trail on ties prosper. of the country’s western states.
Wildlife Management Area and Douthat
Editor .......................................................Jamie Goodman This summer, I urge you find time to reconnect with the mountains. Explore the Central and Grayson Highlands state parks. an old railroad bed and the embracing In the eastern part of West Virginia, But as long as the blue and green
AcossnotcriiAbtuEt iEndgi tEodri .t.o..r.. .........................................................................J..iBlliialln K Roavnadriekl and Southern Appalachians and absorb their natural beauty and undeniable value. This is- With 2,193 hiking and biking trails— oalfl Ay ptpraanlascfhoiramn eTdr atihl eth druy-ihnigk etros wvinr tuo-f nFoearer stth, em Gineionrgg eto Wwanssh liinkget oFna yNetatteiovnilalel mstriostnyg ,m poeuonptlaei wnsi lol fc oAmpep.alachia stand
distribution MAnAgEr ..................................Maeve Gould sue of The Voice offers just a few suggestions for places to enjoy a broad array of interests including 330 miles of the Appalachian Damascus, Va., into an outdoor mecca and Ansted experience economic stabil- People will come to escape the
EditoriAl AssistAnt ........................................Meg Holden in one of our nation’s most incredible regions where the people and communities are warm Trail—in these two forests alone, even today, complete with an annual Trail ity and diversity in spite of the mining heat of the southern cities, to let the
grAphic dEsign AssistAnt ............................Meghan Darst the most rabid eco-tourist should have
Organizational Staff and welcoming. plenty do to for a while. Days Festival which draws thousands threatening their towns, thanks to the cool mountain breezes and soft sum-
Our mountains and mountain communities are worth so much more than the sum total of The parks and forests of Appala- of visitors. yearly influx of hikers, kayakers, climb- mer clouds invade their senses. People
ExEcutivE dirEctor ....................................................Willa Mays “The trail competely changed [Da- ers and car campers that come to the will come to sit beneath majestic old
progrAMs dirEctor ...................................................Matt Wasson the coal they contain, and you can help spread the word about why we need to save them. chia bring tourism, and tourism brings mascus] from empty store fronts to a national forest and New River Gorge trees and peer deep into the valley far
dEputy progrAM dirEctor / virginiA dirEctor .....Tom Cormons tourist dollars which help to boost
dirEctor of WAtEr progrAMs .............................Donna Lisenby Enjoy your summer, and enjoy the treasures Appalachia has to offer. the economies of our small mountain bustling town,” said Nancy Lamb, an area to vacation. below, to contemplate how small they
cAMpAign dirEctor ...................................................Lenny Kohm active resident also known by some as Yet if you look at map of western are in this enormous world. People
dEvElopMEnt & coMMunicAtions dirEctor ..............Sandra Diaz communities. Areas that had no major
Willa Mrs. Damascus. “The difference was the West Virginia or eastern Kentucky— will come to wade in our streams and
OPERATIONS & DEVELOPMENT industry or relied on agriculture or a
opErAtions MAnAgEr ..........................................Susan Congelosi single industry before the 1970s have leaders who put it together. They were where mountaintop removal coal min- marvel at the cold, crisp waters, to listen
AdMinistrAtivE AssociAtE .............................................Shay Boyd very farsighted.” ing is the most prevalent—you would to mountain music and to revel in the
dirEctor of MEMbErship ......................................Parker Stevens either dwindled or flourished, depend-
In contrast, the small hamlet of be hard-pressed to find much of the ethereal, eternal and ancient beauty that
dirEctor of foundAtion rElAtions .......................Rachael Goss InSIDe thIS ISSue Regulars ing on which side of the tourist fence
dirEctor of lEAdErship gifts ..............................Kayti Wingfield Lansing, N.C.—located on the same green that designates national and state is Appalachia.
they now stand on.
PROGRAMS Hidden Treasures (by State) Across Appalachia ......... 4 After the railroads were closed in old railroad line as Damascus—elected forests or parks. If you compare this to a Yes, as long as we preserve our
lEgislAtivE AssociAtE ...........................................J.W. Randolph not to continue the Creeper Trail into map outlining the most poverty-strick- mountains, people will come.
nAtionAl fiEld coordinAtor .....................................Kate Rooth Your guide to Coal Update ...............7 the late 1970s, the construction of the
fiEld coordinAtor ......................................................Austin Hall (just a few!) of Virginia .................10
lEgislAtivE AssociAtE .........................................John Humphrey Naturalists Notebook ........ 8
virginiA cAMpAign coordinAtor ...............................Mike McCoy the wonderful eco- West Virginia ........12
AMEricorps rivErkEEpEr AssociAtE .........................Eric Chance tourism hot spots Kentucky .............16 This Green House ......... 24 RRaaiissee yyoouurr VVooiiccee ttoo
TEchNOLOGy & cOMMuNIcATIONS in Appalachia— Tennessee ...........18 Opinions and Editorials ..... 25 Name of Member ___________________________________________________________
tEchnologist.............................................................Benji Burrell and threats to them
it spEciAlist ....................................................................Jeff Deal —you may (not) North Carolina .....20 Inside AV ............... 26 PPrrootteecctt AAppppaallaacchhiiaa’’ss Address ___________________________________________________________________
coMMunicAtions coordinAtor ............................Jamie Goodman have known about.
Georgia ...............22
AMEricorps EducAtion & outrEAch AssociAtE ......Jillian Randel Get Involved! ............. 28 City______________________________________ State_________ Zip________________
Penn./Ohio ..........23
INTERNS
stAnbAck lEgislAtivE fElloW.....................................Alex Brown TTrreeaassuurreess Phone_________________________E-mail_______________________________________
stAnbAck outrEAch AssistAnt .............................Jessye Waxman About the cover
stAnbAck it spEciAlist ......................................Prithvi Prabahar Please indicate your donation level for the next year:
AdMinistrAtivE AssistAnt.........................................Adam Reaves The Waterfalls The waterfall on Laurel Creek in Sugar Grove,
coMMunicAtions AssistAnt .....................................Kaley Bellanti N.C., is a favorite local hangout known ❑ Mountain Protector (monthly contributor) $_________ /month ($10 minimum)
of Appalachia
coMMunicAtions AssistAnt ........................................Meg Holden affectionately as “Trashcan Falls” because of a
EvEnts / grAphic dEsign AssistAnt ..........................Sara Brown ❑ $500 ❑ $100 ❑ $75 ❑ $50
set of dumpsters that once marked the parking Join Appalachian Voices Today.
WEb / grAphic dEsign AssistAnt ...........................Meghan Darst Seven gorgeous spots
for you to add to your p. 14 area next to the trail. A deep pool at the top of ❑ $25 ❑ $15 Student/Limited Income ❑ $_________ Other
“hit list” this summer. the falls beckons jumpers into the (very chilly!) creek on hot
days. Photo by Kent Kessinger, kentkessinger.com MC/VISA # ________________________________________________________________
CLip, COMpLETE AND MAiL TO:
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Page 2 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 3
A c r o ss Appalachia

Environmental News From Around the Region
Shady Valley Residents Speaking out on Pesticide Use
By Meg Holden Residents are also concerned about fined by the Tennessee Department of The Shady Valley Neighbors for
the impact of B&W’s use of metam Agriculture and the EPA is currently Clean Air and Water will continue to
Shady Valley, Tennessee is small,
sodium, a pesticide listed by the U.S. investigating the metam sodium misap- monitor the water table and B&W’s
rural and quiet—quiet until now, that
Environmental Protection Agency as plication. The Tennessee Forestry Com- arugula fields and growing practices
is. The recently formed organization
highly toxic and a likely carcinogen. mission visited the area and warned the and hope to prevent further unsafe
Shady Valley Neighbors for Clean Air
Shady Valley Neighbors for Clean Air growers to control their application of practices.
and Water is speaking out against envi-
and Water president Tony Barry stated metam sodium.
ronmental injustice in their community,
in a press release that between 30 and
and it isn’t so quiet in the valley now.
50 people, including children, were White-Nose Syndrome Spreads to North Carolina
B&W Quality Growers rented land
exposed to metam sodium fumes
in the Shady Valley area to grow arugula
after an application of the chemical By Tim W. Jackson treatment or cure.
and other greens, but recent events have
to Shady Valley fields by Highland Steps taken to monitor bat popu-
community members wondering about Insect-eating bats in the United
Soil Fumigation Company on behalf lations and inform the public about
B&W’s growing practices. The Shady States likely save the agricultural in-
of B&W. Shortly after the applica- white-nose syndrome include: closing
Valley Neighbors for Clean Air and dustry at least $3 billion a year, yet bats
tion, residents reported respiratory caves and mines, information sessions
Water believe that the wells drilled by are often overlooked as economically
problems, headaches, nausea, severe with the public on how to avoid and
B&W for irrigation may have lowered important, non-domesticated animals
coughing and blisters. minimize the spread of the disease and
the water table in the valley, causing in North America.
Both B&W and Highland Soil the development of protocols for decon-
sinkholes along US 421. Affecting bats from New England
Fumigation Company have been tamination of equipment and clothing
through Virginia, the disease has now
for researchers.
moved into North Carolina (confirmed
“If anyone notices unusual behav-
in Avery and Yancey counties thus far).
Nuclear Dumpsite threatens Asheville ior from bats, like flying during the day,
“Bats are saving us big bucks by
sick or dead bats, they should report
Residents…for the second time gobbling up insects that eat or damage
these observations to the North Caro-
our crops,” said Paul Cryan, a U.S. Geo-
lina Wildlife Resources Commission in
By Meg Holden coal and petroleum. The persistent logical Survey research scientist. “These
their area,” said Susan Loeb, research
problem with nuclear power is its by- bats deserve help.”
In 1988, a North Carolina Geological ecologist for the U.S. Forest Service.
product—the highly radioactive waste In March, the Western North Caro-
Survey determined that Sandy Mush, Panel experts expressed concern
that must be contained indefinitely. lina Alliance in Asheville hosted a panel
less than 30 minutes from Asheville, that the disease can kill up to 100 per-
A group of concerned residents to discuss white-nose syndrome, how
would be an unsuitable dumpsite for cent of bat colonies during hibernation
have created a coalition called The it affects bats and what we can do to
nuclear waste. Now, the Federal Blue and could lead to the extinction of nu-
Mountain Protectors to oppose the pos- help.
Ribbon Commission on America’s merous bat species.
sibility of locating a dumpsite in west- A disease believed to be caused
Nuclear Future is again considering To report abnormal bat behavior in
ern North Carolina. Parties interested in by the fungus Geomyces destructans,
western North Carolina as a location your area contact the North Carolina
The Mountain Protectors can call 828- white-nose syndrome is estimated to
for a permanent disposal site. Wildlife Resources Commission Office
301-6683. More information on nuclear have killed more than a million bats
As the campaign for alternative at 919-707-0050 or the U.S. Fish & Wild-
hazards in the southeast is available at in the eastern United States since 2006.
energy continues, nuclear power is fre- life Service at 828–258–3939.
nirs.org/southeast/sehome.htm White-nose syndrome was discovered
quently considered an option to replace
five years ago, but as of now there is no
Diverse mix of music and informative programming • Listener supported • Broadcast from Appalshop
FRAPPES
91 Madison Ave., Whitesburg, Ky • [phone] • www.wmmtfm.org
Page 4 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 5
A c r o ss Appalachia The cOAL REPORT Appalachia and Beyond

Environmental News From Around the Region
Controversy over Coal Jobs, Mercury Poisoning and Liquid Coal
Nc Greenlights 150 this year. The spill killed two workers focused on rebuilding the ecological squirrel was unceremoniously dropped By JW Randolph eight witnesses, many of them represent- displeasure at being excluded from the of mercury and other toxic emissions
Turbine Wind Farm and dumped an estimated four million resources, services and value of the from the endangered species list. The ing large donors to Gibbs’ election cam- public process. from power plants.
The often slow pace of progress in
gallons of untreated sewage into the Potomac Highlands, which suffer from new ruling will go a long way to afford paign, all held pro-mountaintop removal Despite a decades long decline in As little as one gram of mercury fall-
North Carolina regulators have Washington D.C. hasn’t stopped the
nearby Little Pigeon River—part of the severe ecological damage. As part of the the squirrel, as well as its surrounding positions. No impacted citizens, regional mining jobs across central Appalachia ing on a 20-acre lake over the course of a
given the go-ahead for a 300-megawatt Obama Administration—or a divided
Smoky Mountains National Park—after Mid-Atlantic Highlands Program, these habitat, the protections it needs to re- scientists, or Appalachian economists and a recent national recession, Appala- few years is enough to make fish unsafe
wind farm to be located on private Congress—from continuing an uproari-
a holding tank wall collapsed on site at projects are aimed at restoring areas cover. Visit: saveblackwater.org. were invited to speak on the panel. chian mining jobs have actually grown in for human consumption. Despite this
farm lands in the eastern counties ous debate about coal, carbon and cli-
of Pasquotank and Perquimans near the Veolia Water North America plant. of significant cultural and ecological Blue Ridge Musicians mate in the first half of 2011. Nevertheless, Appalachian citizens the last four years—largely due to the fact fact, 48 tons of poisonous mercury are
The Tennessee Department of Environ- importance. Visit: epa.gov/reg3esd1/ who oppose mountaintop removal came that central Appalachian coal operators emitted by coal-fired power plants in the
Elizabeth City, N.C. The wind farm honored In May, a House of Representatives
ment and Conservation is conducting highlands-plan.html. and filled the hearing room on both occa- are using a larger percentage of deep- U.S. every year, falling into lakes and riv-
will produce enough electricity to subcommittee held a two part hearing on
On June 11, five outstanding artists
power between 55,000 and 100,000 extensive sampling of the river both up- Flying Back onto “mining issues,” titled “EPA mining poli- sions, wearing buttons that said “I Love mining to get their coal. Deep mining ers through rain. The effects of mercury
will be inducted into the Blue Ridge
stream and down. Signs lining the river Mountains” and “Stop Mountaintop currently provides 50 percent more jobs ingestion range from headaches and skin
homes. The Iberdrola Renewables Inc. Endangered Species cies: Assault on Appalachian Jobs.” Water
Music Hall of Fame. This year’s Hall of
warn of elevated levels of fecal (sewage) Removal.” Citizens were able to speak than surface mining in Appalachia. rashes to severe neurological damage.
wind farm will be the first of its kind in List Fame inductees are singer-songwriter Resources Subcommittee Chairmen Bob
bacteria and advise residents to avoid directly with Chairman Gibbs and other IN OTHER NEWS, the EPA is cur- The comment period is open until
North Carolina as Duke Energy, which Gibbs invited nine witnesses, only one
swimming or fishing. Long-term health On March 25 of this year, the North- Emmylou Harris, dancer Willard Wat- members after the hearing to express their rently taking comments on the regulation June 5th.
operates 1000-megawatts of wind en- of whom represented the EPA. The other
effects are yet to be determined. Visit: ern flying squirrel was ruled back on son, banjo player Jens Kruger, song- In addition, a group of Representa-
ergy production outside the state, has
health.state.tn.us/. the endangered species list by a federal writer Jim Lauderdale and fiddler Jim tives recently introduced legislation to
officially withdrawn its proposal for TVA Retires Appalachia Rises UBB Disaster
court decision. The species relies on Shumate. Located in Wilkesboro, N.C., incentivize the production and use of
a three turbine/9-megawatt offshore River Value Gets a Boost
mature and old-growth forests in Ap- the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame pro- 18 Power Plants For Blair Mountain Was “Preventable” liquid coal for fuel. Increased domestic
wind farm.
American Rivers was recently se- palachia such as the Monongahela Na- motes and protects the musical heritage gas prices have brought this controversial
Sewage Pollutes Tenn. lected to oversee a $1.8 million dollar tional Forest of West Virginia. Logging, of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Exhibits By Jeff Deal By Jillian Randel By Jeff Deal topic back to the Hill. There has been no
Waterways grant for projects aimed at improving road building and oil and gas develop- and Hall of Fame inductions define and word on whether legislation will pass, or
On April 14, the Tennessee Valley Au- On the week of June 4-11, citizens Tasked with discovering the cause
Local officials are still unable to the communities and rivers in the Po- ment contribute largely to the species’ celebrate the musical history of the Blue when it would move.
thority (TVA) announced its intention to will march, rally and participate in a of the disaster that killed 29 Appala-
determine the long-term environmental tomac Highlands. The highlands cover dwindling numbers. In a 2008 decision, Ridge, including regional music and
retire eighteen of its oldest, most polluting day of action to preserve Blair Mountain, chian miners on April 5, 2010, the West
and economic effects of a Gatlinburg, areas in Penn., Va., Md. and W.Va. The after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service musicians in all genres. Visit: blueridge-
coal-fired power plants. By the end of 2017, abolish mountaintop removal, strengthen Virginia Governor’s Independent In-
Tenn., sewage spill in early April of grant will be divided among ten projects failed to address population decline, the musichalloffame.com.
the TVA will have retired 2,700-megawatts labor rights and demand investment in vestigation Panel found, “the disaster
(enough for between one and three million sustainable job creation in Appalachian at Upper Big Branch was man-made
homes) of coal-fired electricity genera- communities. and could have been prevented had
tion. The TVA says it plans to replace this This summer’s Appalachia Rising Massey Energy followed basic, well-
generation with “low-emission or zero- event will commemorate the 90th anni- tested and historically proven safety
featured as an Official Selection at the Sundance Film Festival emission electricity sources, including versary of the Battle of Blair Mountain. procedures,”
renewable energy, natural gas, nuclear In 1921, 10,000 miners rose against coal The disaster was the result of a
Members of the Alliance for Appalachia “A traditional American tale of power and energy efficiency.” operators to demand the basic right to failure to comply with three basic
& iLoveMountains.org will be on hand good, evil, and the Kennedys... An agreement between the TVA, live and work in decent conditions. underground coal mining safety prac-
at the following screenings exquisitely shot and with a the EPA, three U.S. states and three en- The event will kick off with a celebra- tices: maintaining a proper ventilation Used,
vironmental advocacy groups stipulates tion concert to honor the life and legacy of system, following federal and state rock
beautiful soundtrack...”
June 3-9 Premier in New York Rare & Out
that the TVA spend $350 million dollars West Virginia music legend Hazel Dickens dusting standards and maintaining the
-Jessica Weisberg, The Faster Times
& Washington DC
to develop energy efficiency and envi- on Sunday, June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Culture safety systems of coal mine machinery. of Print Books
June 15-21 Los Angeles, CA ronmental restoration projects. The TVA Center in Charleston, W.Va. All proceeds Over 14 mine employees and high level
Specializing in
also agreed to protect TVA customers benefit the March on Blair Mountain. managers of Massey Energy declined to
June 17-23 Irvine, CA Books about Black
from the long-term risks of any single Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at provide information for the indepen-
San Francisco, CA Mountain College
Berkeley, CA fuel source. blairmountainconcert.eventbrite.com. dent review of the disaster.
Philidelphia, PA
June 24-30 Cambridge, MA newsbites from coal country
Chicago, IL
DesTRucTion is noT DeVeloPmenT: A recent study see filed a “Lands Unsuitable for Mining” petition note that the educational piece failed to address any
July 8-14 Denver, CO by the Ochs Center for Metropolitan Studies found on October 1, 2010 in an effort to keep the lands of the detrimental effects of coal use such as air and
Seattle, WA
that just over half (56%) of the jobs promised by six and ridgelines within the Cumberland Plateau water pollution, human illness and environmental
Minneapolis, MN
new coal plants were actually created. designated for public use free from surface min- degradation from coal mining.
Atlanta, GA
ing. The petition is now under review by the U.S.
PeeR-ReVieweD RePoRT QuesTioning climATe wesT ViRginiAns meeT wiTh coAl oPeRAToR, Al-
Austin, TX
Department of Interior.
chAnge eARns An “F”: The 2008 report came under PhA nATuRAl ResouRces: Residents asked Alpha
Portland, WA
question when sections of the federally funded coAl geTs school house RockeD: The educational to consider safer blasting and to switch to a dry
July 22-28 Knoxville, TN study were found plagiarized from the Internet En- materials provider, Scholastic, recently came under method of coal processing, abandoning the wet Jean & Carl Franklin Powered
by (PV)
Charlotte, NC cyclopedia, Wikipedia and student textbooks. fire for their fourth-grade lesson packet entitled “The process that creates coal slurry that poisons nearby 103 Cherry Street Solar Cells
Pittsburgh, PA United States of Energy”, produced primarily with drinking water. In a surprise ending, Alpha’s CEO Black Mountain, NC 28711
Tennessee mounTAin loVeRs seek To keeP TheiR [phone]
funds from the American Coal Foundation. Critics requested a follow-up meeting in July.
iLoveMountains.org/lastmtnmovie cumbeRlAnD mounTAinToPs: The state of Tennes- [email protected]
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Naturalists’ Notebook
Orchids: The Grace, Strength and Beauty of the Mountains
By Julie Johnson at work. Remember, these plants rely SUMMER BLOOMERS is either dark purple or dark green, with
on intricate systems for survival, so at- purple spots.
The beauty and mystique of Ap- Downy Rattlesnake Plantain
tempting to pick or transplant them will
palachia’s wild orchids have seduced (Goodyera pubescens) FALL BLOOMERS
kill them, and further threaten already
many a woodland explorer. Like the
endangered plant species. Flowers July - August Yellow-Fringed (Platanthera ciliaris)
flowers’ curious pollinating insects,
Rattlesnake Plantain is so called be- Flowers August - Late September
these brilliant and prolific plants keep SpRiNg BLOOMERS
cause of the unique snake-skin pattern This flamboyant
us coming back for more.
Yellow Lady Slipper (Cypripedium on its dark green leaves. A cluster of tiny yellow-orange orchid
Orchids are a fascinating study
calceolus) white blooms open like hungry mouths is pollinated by but-
in plant intelligence and ecological
Flowers April – June on its tall stalk, waiting for its bee pol- terflies and thrives in
symbiosis. To ensure the continued
This orchid bears a splendid yel- linators to take the damp meadows and
existence of their species, orchids,
low bulb under its wispy wine-colored bait. This orchid mountain slopes. Its
through millions of
petals. The Cherokee called also loves acidic small blooms feature
years of trial and er-
it “Yellow Moccasin” and soil, and can often a prominent lower
ror, have developed
reportedly used an infusion be found growing petal rimmed with
intricate adaptations
of its roots to treat children in hemlock stands. tiny fringe. They
designed to lure their
infected with worms, and as Some traditional grow in a cluster at the top of a foot-
favored insect into
an analgesic. remedies claim that long stem.
carrying their pollen
from plant to plant. Pink Lady Slipper a tea made from October Ladies’-Tresses (Spiranthes
(Cypripedium acaule) the roots will cure ovalis)
Once an orchid
Flowers May - July snakebites, and a Flowers August – November
has successfully
tea made from the leaves will cure
nabbed a pollinator, Like its cousin Yellow The Spiranthes genus has 300 known
rheumatism and toothaches.
the survival of its Moccasin, the Pink Lady Slip- members of its family of delicate spiral-
germinated seed re- per is pollinated by luring Crane-fly (Tipularia discolor) ing orchids. The
lies on another forest bumblebees into its pouch. Flowers Mid July - Late August flowers thin, 14-
neighbor: fungus. Fungi fibers stretch Once trapped, the bee can only exit The Crane-fly is a noctodorous inch stalk shoots
out to the needy seed and give it the through a complex reproductive maze. orchid, meaning that it only releases straight up out of
carbon it needs to flourish and begin First it must pass beneath the stigma, its fragrance at night. This attracts the forest floor,
the cycle again. which rubs off any pollen the bee may its favorite pollinator, the noctuidae ending in a tight
In Appalachia, over 50 known na- be carrying from a previous plant visit, moth, who receives the pollen on its spiral of small
tive species of orchids live in forests, then it works its way toward the exit, eye from the slightly twisted column white blooms. It
meadows and rock faces. Take it slow just past the plants pollen mass, which of the flower. During the winter the is a self-pollinator
on your next mountain excursion, and it carries on naively to the next plant. plant can be identified by a single leaf and prefers shady
see if you can spot the glorious orchid protruding from the forest floor, which wooded areas.
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Page 8 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 9
Virginia Virginia
Small Farming Staying Alive through Diversification
400 hundred years of U.S. history and an eternity of natural wonders run from the Appalachian By Bill Kovarik industrial scale farms that produce high Anchoring the agri-
Mountain Ridges to the Shenandoah Valley and on to a coast that is one of the south’s finest. quantities of food at the expense of qual- tourism concept is the Fron-
Historically rich and classically pas-
ity and the environment. tier Culture Museum, a
DOUTHAT toral, the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia
Music Tourism Gives Floyd Economy a Boost CRABTREE is searching for sustainability through The idea of rolling out a big green state-supported living his-
FALLS welcome mat for agri-tourists is, in large tory museum where farm
agricultural tourism.
part, a hope that small and moderate life from Africa, Europe
By Bill Kovarik and Jason Coleman On a Shenandoah farm just north of
sized farmers can supplement their in- and early North America A bride arrives by helicopter at the Hermitage Hill Farm and
Lexington, Cyrus McCormick launched
If there is a poster child for music,
come with a wide variety of activities that is re-enacted daily. Offer- Stables, one of the new agri-tourism venues springing up in
an industrial revolution in agriculture
art and recreational tourism in Ap- Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Photo courtesy of Hermitage Hill
fall into the category of agri-tourism. ing museum-like tours and
by inventing the first mechanical har-
palachia, it would have to be Floyd,
The activities range from farm-stay summer camps for chil-
vester in 1831.
Virginia. family vacations to wineries and horse dren, the museum recently process of organizing and marketing
For most of the 20th century, Floyd A dozen miles away, in the shadow farms that offer deluxe catering for faced drastic state funding cuts. The animates the Fields of Gold initiative.
County was just another sleepy farm- GRAYSON of the Appalachians, farmer-philosopher weddings and special occasions. They McCormick museum, half an hour south “This area has a rich history and
ing community along the Blue Ridge HIGHLANDS Joel Salatin launched a different kind of also include the increasingly familiar on I-81, also offers a link to the past. culture that surrounds land based
Phdfmglereieaorgutcrymhhska BToie-dw coopurue, dc aeritsatnbyn a,a ro, ayian atnnvss k egyd en rlasmooieron,fu tz ewwoidte r hosc neinnecanee rtdne ssftapo h iltaffefiariatfndn ssensldt e rdtiihse.t n o ctent gcle twretohsne v,n,oee m aerca r nceo orttaru errhctmef elsruat s,ieh tvsg.gh sir etenaaeeoslnges--, miHowRgtawisoouvt hdrnstelAeiegrdecnr en r-Vitscsnsoahc l gtaale ihl snnnaoeesdnyfe r .1F e n iE ,nmlsi5Worv t0ieFayec0hrjlardo otalsa iry,tJkai odnbecrwhyo- memFnang eetsnatihnsornnttiitned,b s i,dte ucn oyrde t e2otle tresoh0arotb 0 eractr.b1 uko aN rK r taaiiatesnnrnhnw idggaest oteeMswhtvduaieuelrur ls rDt kScibiycnaiote d igFtgw liasl etot noeshtonote wiatis k.vh”nn ceMae ne nlRr ,nu a doaymat, aecl t durltheah hsvasaeioestcn ,iun Jcoduvtsar.e en lg t nm weahu neuiBtei szhusNie cgcri aof nsetmn chiscoltouuienvpsrdaaiteecsll, moVinKpseeli arfninggig toniuhtuntcbh eiiaikom ny,etr .hmi wgnM eguimo t nhstuseo hntoa auttaletotluei hn is wtttnbh,so e epWtsne ratsaeeeaatsmruimtnn rou Vaevpsl iat rtaglywh rpirton re oainoaacdtf uts iaect nhrtaesdess , swfprassaeaeoboovrrnclumveuoida liAallstnsuldgr algttyc trfnih hhie otcdachoaenuno leunt l hm mitoggoruon ehnpobru , e r islPstoM,eeeha ohxr pnaeelceeytad gC s shhrfsip aoaoo otocrtrphnmeafeme aad dwseltFi i , bcllva od“iokyrennwcom r g 1aaesmi8 vnsliailfi.0nio dc sne hSrdye daeSue euost a fsates.talht”rht aar srotem tii hunoiranessf--l atacwctoraocgai lturatlciehivngtT-do itrtotfy iroFia- eubtriraoseimernd lulciddiseeorksm isrme sro seam ,Ufe gnd G i -ibdsweopo es nilhplttcadtaiaukeunl.t r m T nfap takhchtplrinhaeemoknyoi nCinn wsnh,g,re onocp rapaoo sa a, erkgt spn cweir thra dom oow eu mrgRsaikp.rlzao lia ejna boomsdgerf, fafaiStoanhkslr d.ylc ult TaTTfihovnnhohereeduee rd eSra rnioarehnss gzrtmed–eheinL oan eEiau ns snlni r ansohddab ofayalo eteos,l al ns stS lhohsooeh,f e wn e Vagragn maagdt aoblireolnn eites-nhidetytningoeo ng u WaSkao hrhtantiiih,etnsoo tGnemnewera nrss.nnTa t.tT rd nihfoahoodaniert-l, epS“lTaoigTcfhhlv aorhoeeiinnn pne-itngrotnaoeiim,nioun tindtirgisahieso sta.saiama”vt,nsh” e ssd iiosPdwesamtsleiiaatnldielnnnt ibntaMtf ryeitwani,eo ongalinn td hii sC wscet ahotnid htemshPw eer lm a eieCon gcvifdesik aosnrlernuiiitrnoer r,a tngaayasll..
renewable energy workshops, poetry bluegrass lovers has grown to about Floyd is also known as a Mecca for state. A permit is currently pending for landscape further up the valley. of southwestern Virginia is to music. The
rgeoaidnign ogns amnodr elo ocra ll ethsse actoenrs ptarnodtluy.c t ions 1fr2o,0m0 0a rpoeuonpdl et heen wjooyrinldg. entertainment saenrcihoours aisr ttihstes Jaancdk scoranfvtsil lfeo lCk,e anntedr —theainr Iaassdosdnoi tcRioioantc ektdo R weidxitgahec ,ce aurb rsraeutnrinftag cs euh remfaaiclntehe mtehfiafneti,cn tigns feel tMhea snaym oef wSaayla—tinth’se yf aarrme n noet iegnhtibroelrys sptraotve eadg rpiclaunltnuirneg d feupnadrstm foern tth ree cfiernstt lsyt aagpe-
“Our vision was to produce a world old barn near town that was converted happy with the sprawling suburban of the initiative, with every county in the
Floyd’s musical reputation goes practices, would destroy three miles of
back to the dawn of the bluegrass era. music festival for the entire family and ten years ago into an art studio with a streams and fill nine valleys with more developments that threaten the pasto- central valley chipping in.
In the 1980s, local bluegrass bands be- that’s not just a catch phrase, we mean gallery featuring pottery, textiles, paint- than 11 million cubic yards of rock ral vistas and the farming way of life.
gan playing at the Floyd Country Store it,” said Linda DeVito, operations di- ing and crafts shows. and dirt. Visit: samsva.org for more Nor has it been easy to compete with
rector for Across the Way Productions. According to Lydeana Martin, the information.
every Friday night. The store became a
“We pride ourselves in the fact that county’s community and economic
fixture of bluegrass culture and, recently, -- By Jillian Randel Grayson Highlands
most of us have kids, we wanted to development director, music and arts
an important anchor for the “Crooked state Park
provide a festival where a patron, even tourism brings an estimated $18 million
Trail” heritage music tourism route market and two new county task forces
us, would feel comfortable in bringing a year and at least 200 jobs to Floyd. By Meg Holden
through southwestern Virginia. to address land policy and agriculture
Efforts to take advantage of tourism Stunning views, unusual geologic
and forest economic viability.
and broaden the county’s economic formations and wild ponies—Grayson
Playing to the crowd at the 2010 base include an expanded farmers’ Visit: floydvirginia.com/ Highlands State Park in the Jefferson A wild pony of Grayson Highlands.
FloydFest. Photo by Russ Helgren Photo by Katie Boyette
National Forest has all these and more.
Located on US 58 between Indepen-
The Grayson Highlands balds are
Douthat state Park dence and Damascus, Va., Grayson
maintained by a herd of introduced wild
By Jamie Goodman Highlands attracts hikers, campers and ponies. These ponies are accustomed to
Tucked away in the Allegh- equestrians from all over the U.S. visitors and will not shy away from hu-
eny Mountains in western Virginia, The state park is home to forests, as mans, but should not be petted or fed.
Douthat provides a sturdy blend well as balds, high-altitude meadows Camping, horseback riding, fishing
between moderately outdoorsy and with rocky outcroppings and low vege- and hiking are permitted in Grayson SMOKY MOUNTAINS: Whole Earth, NOC Great Outpost,
activity-based family vacations. The tation. Balds such as the ones in Grayson Highlands. A fall festival is held every Rabbit Food, Dandridge General Store, Little River Outfitters
4,493-acre park offers 40 miles of wild- Highlands threatened to disappear in year and includes live music, demon-
ASHEVILLE: Earth Fare, Greenlife, West Village Mkt
life-rich hiking/biking trails, a 50-acre Photo by Jamie Goodman the early twentieth century, when state strations of pioneer life, a craft sale and
lake with swimming and boating and and national parks prohibited large- an auction for excess colts from the CHATTANOOGA: Earth Fare, Greenlife, Mtn. Valley Market
a full-service restaurant. Those seeking more remote excursions can explore the scale livestock grazing. Surrounding pony herd. More information is avail- BOONE: Earth Fare
surrounding George Washington National Forest, which boasts hundreds of forests began reclaiming the exposed able at dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/
miles of hiking trails and more than 30 campgrounds ranging from primitive grassy and heath balds until mainte- gra.shtml. Order at BlueSmokeCoffee.com
to full-hookups. Visit: dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/dou.shtml. nance measures were enacted.
Page 10 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 11
West Virginia West Virginia
Dolly Sods: Heaven vs. Hydrofracking
WHEELING Flowers bloom at Dolly Sods.
Photo by Jaime Pettry
A ruggedly beautiful landscape makes the Mountain State a huge draw for outdoor enthusiasts, By Frank Salzano the far north, the north woods of New
but environmentally destructive mining practices pose a growing threat to attracting eco-tourism. England and the extremely diverse
If you’ve never been to eastern West
mixed-mesophytic (moist) hardwoods
Virginia, you might wonder why the
Mountaintop Removal Threatens Outdoor Mecca of Appalachia all meet here.
Mountain State is nicknamed “Almost
The northern part of the Mononga-
Heaven.” If you have been, you’ve
By Jesse Wood New and the Gauley. hela is home to the Dolly Sods Wilder-
probably wondered why anyone ever
“A lot of the commercial activity is ness. The wilderness area is composed
Once a booming coal town in south- included “almost” in the phrase.
due to the rafting industry, [but] private of a high elevation plateau that makes
ern West Virginia, Fayetteville thrives The highlands country of West Vir-
kayakers, as well as the climbers, make up part of the continental divide, and
today because of the outdoor recreation ginia is part of the Allegheny Mountains
up a significant part of the economy,” is the highest plateau of its type east of
and tourism industry. Yet mountaintop that run north into Maryland and Penn-
Lewis said. DOLLY SODS the Mississippi. It includes an area of
removal threatens the town as coal once sylvania. The name Allegheny comes
WILDERNESS
Climbing didn’t prosper in 10,215 acres of wilderness for backpack-
apgicaki“neA dc srue cepop atshl c emlo ssilnearicn tkgo aFwnaadyn ebettodeo,v sitltoleeud.r itshme tawhsi etwh N h1i,e6twe0w0 -Raptilevures rd r oiGdp,oe br rguoetu ttaehsse , edaarrraelawy, s FAYETTEVILLNEEW RIVER GORGE FFA taoimlrbleesr ms Satnh agMoemraetnnt parogjecet inmtrodeuncetd fmarroyemath t ihac aoLlu epsneaaonppdelse Dso wfe ylhaeowa firasrr seat g winooh. r a d b i ft oe dr tthhee ervorissct ktayos ,pe ilxta piisnl otshr, eeu .pm Claoonsvtde p rboeopdgu swl aainrth dw seiwlxdteeeenrpnsiienvsges
economy,” said Mark Lewis, executive This highlands region falls into
thousands of climbers throughout PEACHTREE in the Monongahela National forest area in the state.
director of West Virginia Professional FALLS doesn’t come without controversy. the Monongahela National Forest (the the best cross-country skiing on the known carcinogens, endocrine disrup-
the world each year. The area’s unique microclimate is
River Outfitters. “Most of the The Upper Greenbrier North Project “Mon”), which makes up the heart of east coast, and the Seneca Rocks-Spruce tors and generally hazardous to human
extremely cold and thus the plants and
places in southern West Vir- will include timber harvesting and the central Appalachians. Like the Blue Knob National Recreation Area, home health. Studies have shown that the
ginia where mining occurred Rafting the New River. Photo regeneration projects, and has citizens Ridge of southern Appalachia, they con- animals there are similar to ones found to world-renowned rock climbing. process can pollute local water supplies
courtesy of River Expeditions
complaining about possible risks to the about 1,600 miles farther north. Dolly
didn’t have that. They didn’t struct the Eastern Continental Divide, This area, like all of the Allegheny with heavy concentrations of volatile
environment. The project fails to address Sods is adjacent to other natural trea-
have the New River Gorge creating an especially rich, lush eco- highlands country, is filled with small organic compounds and heavy metals,
Virginia because of the whitewater a number of threatening concerns.
sures like the Canaan Valley National
to fill the void.” and climbing. This is a unique Regeneration efforts include fencing system to the west of the high elevation farms, tourism and a strong sense of like arsenic, lead and copper, which also
Wildlife Refuge, which hosts some of
In 1968, the late Joe Dra- off certain areas to keep out deer, while ridges. The frigid spruce-fir forests of Appalachian old-time culture—but it cause cancer, kidney failure and fertility
little eclectic community. It really
gan started West Virginia’s failing to address the greater problem is currently under threat. Located over problems.
transformed the town.”
of deer overpopulation; extensive
first commercial rafting the Marcellus shale seam that contains West Virginia is known for its
In 2006, Outside magazine
use of herbicides that are not favored
business along the New natural gas, Dolly Sods is near several natural beauty and rugged mountains,
named Fayetteville a top-ten for heavy applications; and stream
River. His vision of the area permitted sites to drill for natural gas but it is also known for its poverty and
destination in the country for its restoration plans that fail to address
for outdoor recreation re- paddling, climbing, biking and riparian systems as a whole. The project using hydraulic fracturing methods, history of exploitation in the coalfields.
sulted in the New River also fails to address the endangered or hydro-fracking—a technique of The Allegheny highlands and plateau
trail running.
Gorge becoming part of northern squirrel population that relies drilling that injects liquid slurry into provide an alternative economy to yet
But that isn’t the only top-ten
heavily on the Monongahela Forest
the National Park System drilling sites to break up shale rock another extractive industry. The Dolly
The shift to an economy based on list the area made. In 2010, Ameri- to repopulate. Visit: wvhighlands.org/
(NPS) in 1978. Ten years later, the NPS formations and allow more natural gas Sods Wilderness area is a unique place,
can Rivers, a conservation organization, wv_voice/?p=3631 to comment.
outdoor recreation and tourism altered
established the Gauley National River to be released. as is the rest of the Mountain State.
the town’s demographic and culture. named the Gauley among America’s -- By Jillian Randel
Recreation Area. Although the industry lobbied Protecting these mountains from de-
Most Endangered Rivers because of
Lewis described Fayetteville as a sleepy
“We have the New River and the against disclosing what the fluids con- struction and using them for positive
the devastating effects of mountaintop
town in the ‘80s, where most of the activ-
Gauley, two of the best rafting and tain, congressional and EPA reports economic development will help ensure
removal. ing has been right in the center of the
ity revolved around the courthouse. Downtown Wheeling, W.Va., and the Ohio River from Wheeling Island. Photo by Tim Kiser
kayaking rivers in the country, and have found that many of the chemicals their future.
As mountaintop removal creeps county,” Tyree said. “It basically sur-
“There weren’t near the number of
they are only about 15 miles apart,” in the slurry, such as benzene, are
closer towards Fayetteville, the town, and rounds Fayetteville and the New River Wheeling:
restaurants or little businesses in town,” Eat, Shop, Play & Work in the Friendly City
Lewis said.
in turn the economy, may be ruined. and is creeping closer.”
said Lewis. “It’s very different than
Last year, commercial rafting out-
“People of Fayette County are re- Frasure Creek Mining, a subsidiary
most towns you’ll find in southern West By Meg Holden Today, Wheeling is known as
fitters guided 140,000 people down the
ally concerned,” said Stephanie Tyree, of Trinity Coal, which is owned by the
the “Friendly City.” Civic groups in
Wheeling, located in the north-
organizer for Ohio Valley Environmen- Indian conglomerate Essar Group, has
Wheeling work to preserve the city’s
ern panhandle of West Virginia, has
new river Gorge: world class climbing tal Coalition (OVEC). “It’s one of the three active surface mining permits, cultural heritage. Historic sites such
a rich and diverse history. Founded
few areas in the state where tourism with six more pending or under review,
as the West Virginia Independence
The New River Gorge offers some of the best sandstone climbing in the in 1769, trade along the Ohio River
has really taken off. You see our state near Fayetteville.
Hall, the Victoria Theater and the La
country. The area, known around the world for its 1,600-plus rope climbs, and the National Road transformed
propaganda, ‘Wild and Wonderful,’ yet, “[This is] the number one recreation
Belle Cut Nail Plant represent differ-
has limitless bouldering and hundreds of deep water solo routes on the this frontier town into “the gateway
just in the backroom, they are blowing destination in West Virginia,” said Viv-
ent aspects of Wheeling’s history. The
cliffs above Summersville Lake. to the West” by the mid-nineteenth
up the mountains.” ian Stockman, project coordinator for
annual Italian Festival, Jamboree in
The 70,000 acre New River Gorge is so vast and relatively new, compared century. The Wheeling Convention
Unfortunately, the backroom is OVEC. “And now we have an Indian
the Hills, Wheeling Nailers hockey
to other U.S. parks, that there is still much unclimbed territory. established West Virginia’s indepen-
only 3 ½ miles from town. In the past, company buying up all these moun-
club games and Ogden Newspaper
One popular climbing “spot” is The Endless Wall, aptly named because dence from Virginia in 1863. Iron and
surface mining took place on the edges taintop removal permits and with them,
Distance Race Classic are just a few
it is 4 miles long. Many of the Endless Wall cliffs range from 80 to 140 feet steel mills on the banks of the Ohio
of Fayette County. they are going to blast away this beauti-
events that attract visitors to the
tall. First ascents abound. River helped Wheeling become a
“[This] is the first time surface min- ful tourist hotspot.”
area.
center of industry by the late 1800s.
Page 12 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 13
The Waterfalls of Appalachia
Hiking the Highlands
Here are but six of the hundreds of named and unnamed waterfalls that tumble and twist through our
Appalachian mountains. We hope you enjoy! See the state maps in this issue for location indicators.
Photo by Joe Tennis Photo by Jaime Pettry Photo by Barb Richardson Photo by Rich Stevens, ncwaterfalls.com Photo by Rich Stevens, ncwaterfalls.com Photo by Cindy Montgomery Photo by Thomas Ramsey
Virginia WEST Virginia KEnTUCKY TEnnESSEE norTh Carolina gEorgia Pa / ohio
Crabtree Falls Peach Tree Falls Princess Falls Fall Creek Falls Tom’s Creek Falls Tallulah Gorge Falls Cedar Falls
Am ere six miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Right at the spot where Peach Tree Creek The gentle, sheet-like drop of Princess Falls Just west of Pikeville, Tenn., in the 20,000 acre Toms Creek Falls is well-known to McDowell If one waterfall a day just isn’t enough for you, Cedar Falls, located in the remote valley of
near Milepost 27 in Nelson County, Va., empties into the Marsh Fork River, there is nestled in the southern wilds of Daniel expanse of Fall Creek Falls State Park, Fall County residents, but virtually unheard-of the spectacular, 600-to 1,000-foot deep Tallu- Queer Creek in southeastern Ohio’s Hock-
Crabtree Falls makes a dramatic drop of more is—for adventurous explorers—a 30-foot wa- Boone National Forest. Creek snakes across the Cumberland Plateau by most visitors to the area. Fortunately, the lah Gorge in northeastern Georgia houses six ing Hills State Park, is a great example of how
than 1,000 feet in the George Washington Na- terfall waiting to be discovered. Located 3.35 miles in on Lick Creek Trail, and plunges 256 feet into a horseshoe-shaped falls can be easily found and enjoyed by those separate waterfalls with a vertical drop of over man has worked with nature in both antiquated
tional Forest—just enough elevation to claim Humming alongside the town of Naoma, the breathtaking 17-foot high falls span a nearly- pool. Viewing the falls from the overlook trail, unfamiliar with the region. These stunning falls 500 feet in less than a mile. The tallest is the and modern ways.
that Crabtree could be the highest cascading W.Va., Peach Tree Creek offers a series of sheer wall almost 45 feet long and is named for you will see the highest free-fall waterfall east are among many in the Pisgah National Forest, gushing Hurricane Falls at 96 feet. Other falls in In the mid-1800s, Cedar Falls was the site
waterfall east of the Mississippi River. waterfalls and deep pools to play in the river. Princess Cornblossom, leader of the Chicka- of the Mississippi River. which covers over 500,000 acres in western the drop include Tempesta (76 feet), the Oceana of a grist mill that ground grain with the help of
Getting to the top requires a bit of a Downstream from the 30-foot fall, you will find a maugan Cherokee tribe in the early 1800s. If you’re feeling more adventurous, hike North Carolina. Pisgah National Forest includes (50 feet), the l’Eau d’Or, pictured, (prounounced water power. Now that the falls are an attraction
workout: the trail runs more than two miles on second set of falls with neat ledges and smaller The long ledge overhang continues around the Gorge Trail along the Cane Creek River for attractions such as the Cradle of Forestry, Mount Lador, 46 feet), the sliding rock at Bridal Veil (17 for modern hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, they
a steady climb, stopping along the way at over- channels of water where you can float around to the right of the falls (not pictured). Walking views of four more incredible falls. First, Cane Mitchell and the Linville Gorge Wilderness. feet) and Lovers Leap (16 feet). are home to an integrated staircase known as
around the pool under the ledge puts you fairly Creek Cascades tumbles down 45 feet, fol- A fairly easy, half-mile hike leads to Toms The beauty of Tallulah Gorge has drawn Democracy Steps. Born from the mind of artist,
looks, giving a look at not only Crabtree’s first and bathe in the sun. The smaller ledges are
close to the underside of the falls. lowed by the 85 foot drop at Cane Creek Falls. Creek Falls, though a few steep slopes may visitors since the early 1800s. In 1913, Georgia architect and mathematician Akio Hizume, the
major cascades, but also the dreamy landscape accompanied by a rope swing, which awaits
The trail, which follows Lick Creek, is Just beside that falls, Rockhouse Creek rushes be problematic for small children or those with Power built a hydroelectric dam at the mouth of 100 steps were deliberately designed to evoke
of the Tye River Valley. the more daring waterbugs.
considered intermediate, with multiple creek over a 125-foot drop into the same pool. difficulty walking. Moss-covered boulders near the gorge to run Atlanta’s streetcars. The main feelings of calm and relaxation in the visitor. The
For those less inclined to the strenuous Located in the heart of the coalfields, Peach
crossings, so be prepared for the possibility When the Gorge Trail comes to the conflu- the trail provide ample resting, or climbing, section of the gorge—with its six spectacular ecology of the falls features snapping turtles
hike, you can find the lowest falls on a univer-
Tree Falls, in all its modesty, is a cool spot in the
of getting your feet wet. To get there, take KY ence of the Cane Creek and Piney Creek Rivers, spots . The trail comes out at the base of the waterfalls—was spared; however, the company and stands of hemlock once mistaken by early
sally accessible, paved trail with an overlook
middle of a place that has not been explored
478 west from Whitley City to KY 1651. Turn take an adjoining trail a mile or so up Piney 60-foot falls. The falls are vertical, multi-tiered diverted the water far downstream from the falls. white settlers for cedars, hence the name.
just a few hundred feet from the upper parking
much by people outside of the local area. Peach
left (south) and follow 1651 for one mile before Creek to view 95-foot high Piney Falls. Follow and end in a wide, flat pool, perfect for wading. As much as 10 times the amount of water ran The state first purchased the land for the
lot. The trail then turns to dirt, rocks and wooden
Tree Falls is living proof that beauty exists even reaching Forest Development Road 662 on the the trail from the base of the falls to a breathtak- An old mica mine downstream from the falls through the gorge before 1913 as does today. park in 1924 in order to preserve its many
steps as it makes its way higher.
among a seemingly broken landscape. right. The trailhead is 100 feet on the left at the ing overlook at the top of the falls. has been flooded and abandoned. To get to The 3-mile rim trail and a trail along the natural features, including Old Man’s Cave, Ash
In the 1970s, Crabtree made its way into
From Glen Daniel, follow WV Route 3 gate. The trail follows an old roadbed along the At the Park’s Nature Center you can find the mine, cross the creek below the falls and gorge floor provide alternate views of the falls, Cave, Rock House and Cantwell Cliffs. Once
pop culture. It was mentioned as a destination
twelve miles to Dry Creek. About 0.6 miles be- ridge for a mile before changing to a footpath information on the Rumbling Room, the second follow the path to your left. The mine entrance, and scheduled releases from Tallulah Falls Lake home to the Adena culture 7,000 years ago,
several times on “The Waltons,” a CBS-TV
yond, turn left, crossing the Marsh Fork River, marked with white diamonds. largest cave chamber in the U.S. Unfortunately, a rough tunnel filled with deep water, is on the in early April and November lure whitewater and a passageway or temporary home for tribes
series based on the early life of Nelson County
then turn right. Follow the fork for about a mile For the ultimate waterfall enthusiast, a the cave is currently off limits due to white-nose right. Take some time to look for your own enthusiasts and people eager to see the falls like the Wyandot, Delaware, and Shawnee as
resident Earl Hamner, Jr.
to a parking area and trailhead. whole series of stunning and out-of-the-way bat syndrome. mica, but the mine is dangerous and should in their original glory. recently as the mid 1700s, the park now acts as
From the Blue Ridge Parkway, travel to
To get to the second set of falls, rather drops reside within the Daniel Boone National To explore Fall Creek Falls State Park, take not be entered. Located right off of U.S. 23/441, Tallulah a sanctuary for residents of the region.
milepost 27 and exit onto Va. 56. Head east for
than turning that last left, continue 1.6 miles Forest, some bearing unique names such as Interstate 40 west to exit 322. Take a left off the To reach the falls from Marion, head north Falls State Park (co-operated by the Georgia From Columbus, get on OH-664 S, follow
about 6.3 miles to the national forest parking
into town. Once you pass through town, turn Van Hook, Dog Slaughter and Bark Camp exit, and follow Highway 101 south for about 30 on US-221, then turn left on Huskins Branch park system and Georgia Power) features for 53 miles and the highway will lead you di-
lot at 11581 Crabtree Falls Hwy., Montebello,
left on Peach Tree Road and park immediately Cascades—including one, Kellacey Falls, that minutes. At the dead end, take a left to stay on Road. A parking area is on the right about a camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rectly into the park. Hiking to Cedar Falls itself
Va. For more information, call Nelson County
on the right, walk down the river from there. is accessible only by boat. Visit www.fs.fed.us/ 101. Go four miles and turn right on highway mile down the road, just before the Toms Creek swimming and picnicking. Visit gastateparks. takes just a half a mile from the parking lot.
Tourism at [phone] or visit www.nelson-
r8/boone/resources/water for a complete listing. 30 west. Follow 30 for 5 miles and make a left crossing. Visit ncwaterfalls.com for more more org/TallulahGorge for more information. -- By See hockinghills.com for more details. -- By
-- By Benji Burrell
county.com. -- By Joe Tennis -- By Jamie Goodman into the park. -- By Julie Johnson information. -- By Meg Holden Jamie Goodman Jared Shultz
Page 14 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 15
Kentucky Kentucky
Mother Forest of the United States
From the high mountains to the hills of bluegrass country, Kentucky invites By JW Randolph “Its diversity defines it,” says Ayers.
visitors to experience the rich history of its culture and environment. More than 480 million years ago, The region houses more than 200 species
the great Appalachian Mountains were of birds, over 70 species of mammals and
Two Towns Face Trouble Preserving The Past KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL RED RIVER GORGE bcroerant eddu rPinagn gtheea ,c othneti n“esnutpael rc-oclolinstiionne tnhta.”t coof natnayin psl tahcee hoing hthees tp slaalnaemt.a nder variety
The Appalachians rose to an elevation Famous globally for diversity, the
By Jillian Randel Almost two years
higher than the modern day Himalayas, highly evolved mixed mesophytic
Nestled at the bot- and at their present state have lost more forests contain thousands of botanical
tom of Black Mountain, than three miles of vertical height over species—as many as 30 different canopy
home of the tallest point in millions of years of natural weathering trees can be found at a single site.
Kentucky, are two unique BENHAM and erosion. Some of the most common species
historic towns, famed for During this topographical transfor- are the oaks (Chestnut, White, Northern
once having been the site mation, an incredible forest evolved and Red) and hickories (Mockernut, Bitter-
of the most productive PRINCESS would go on to cover nearly the entirety nut, Pignut, Shagbark), along with nu-
FALLS
coal mining in the world. of Pangea. Its relics remain today in the merous hemlocks, locusts, maples, elms,
“Benham and Lynch mixed mesophytic forest, now found cherry, beech and buckeye. Species that
are towns our forefathers only in Appalachia and small swaths of are endemic to the mixed mesophytic
ago, the Portal 31
had the knowledge and southeastern Asia. region include the Allegheny plum and
wisdom to protect the his- Underground Mine Spanning over 70,000 square kilome- the Black mountain salamander. Cucumber Run in Ohiopyle State Park. Photo by Curt Beal
Tour was built. Visi-
toric buildings,” said resi- ters—an area roughly the size of South In the past 100 years, developments
tors adorn traditional Just a few of the places in Kentucky est, Cumberland Gap, Pine Mountain in
dent Carl Shoupe. “We’re Dakota—the American range of the in the mixed mesophytic woods include
mining gear, step into where you can enjoy this living history Letcher County and the Blanton Forest
still trying to do that.” Benham coal miner’s memorial statue and caboose. Photo by Roy Silver mixed mesophytic forest runs along the the disappearance of a once dominant
a rail car and begin a include the Daniel Boone National For- in Harlan County.
Recently named one Appalachian plateau from eastern Penn- patron—the American Chestnut— due
tour of Black Moun-
of America’s 11 most en- now the Eastern Kentucky Social Club; sylvania, through southeastern Ohio, to blight. But other dangers now face
tain. Railcars enter
dangered historic places by the National the theatre has been renovated and is and encompasses nearly the entirety of the rest of this ancient forest, which is
underground and travel the mine as
Trust for Historic Preservation, the citi- still in use. Many of the old buildings West Virginia, through the Cumberland listed as critically threatened. About 95
they learn the history of three genera-
zens of Benham and Lynch are fighting downtown have been renovated for use Plateau in Kentucky and Tennessee and percent of the original habitat has been
tions of an immigrant family working
to keep these towns from falling into as offices for local businesses. into central Alabama. lost or altered in recent centuries, and the
in the mines.
the hands of coal companies Nally & Benham and Lynch are unique The states in this eco-region thrive forest faces increasing threats of habitat
Portal 31 is less than 500 feet below
Hamilton and A & G Coal Corp. in that they were home to model coal off of the multitude of travelers and tour- loss, fragmentation and destruction as-
one of the newly proposed mine sites,
The two companies have proposed camps. The coal camps were so unlike Photo by Jarek Tuszynski ists who visit this region for its sublime sociated with logging, development and
located on Looney Ridge, near the lower
strip and auger mining projects that typical coal camps because the compa- Red River Gorge beauty. Dr. Harvard Ayers, naturalist, surface mining.
half of Black Mountain. If the proposals
would threaten the health of the com- nies took care of their employees. pass, the Looney Creek, which merges By Meg Holden professor and founder of Appalachian “Various types of air pollution are
munity and the new economy residents “They provided a better life than Voices, calls this the “mother forest” for also a huge threat,” said Dr. Ayers. “[It]
with the Cumberland and eventually The Red River Gorge in Kentucky’s Daniel
have been working so hard to develop. typical coal camps,” said Roy Silver, much of the United States. During the weakens the trees, making them more
flows into the Mississippi, would be Boone National Forest is known for its
The proposed mines would be located town resident and professor. “Families threatened by toxic and heavy metal unique geologic features, including over last ice age, glacial activity destroyed susceptible to blight and disease, with-
in close proximity to the new Portal 31 had schools and good quality, still-stand- 100 natural stone arches, sandstone cliffs enormous swaths of northern forest. out necessarily killing them. It’s a lot like
pollution as a result of mining.
Underground Mine Tour—Kentucky’s ing houses. By the 40s here in Benham, and unusual rock formations. When the glaciers retreated, the mixed human AIDS.”
“You have a strong, deep mining
first exhibition mine site. almost half of the graduating class went tradition here,” said Silver. “People are Because of its varied terrain, different mesophytic forest played a critical role in A forest under such duress will have
When the coal industry died down on to first year of college. That is really environmental conditions provide re-seeding the rest of the eastern United little chance to achieve its old growth
very aware of what strip mining does.
in Benham and Lynch, residents knew important.” habitats for a diverse selection of plants States. climax state.
The governor came to visit and he was
they would have to build an alter- and animals. Archaeological remains
native economy, so why not use impressed with the residents and got as old as 13,000 years can be found in
a better idea of people’s concerns.” the gorge’s dry, protected rock shelters.
goods and services they already
possessed—a unique history of Residents have filed a Lands A nine-mile stretch of the Red River is Bourbon Anyone?
designated as Wild and Scenic, and the
Unsuitable for Mining petition, in an
mining and a town filled with his- Gorge’s Clifty Wilderness area contains
attempt to stop the mining. Residents One of Kentucky’s more popular trails isn’t geared for the outdoorsy
toric buildings? over 12,000 acres of rugged terrain
types. For those who are less enthusiastic about hiking, the Bourbon
and local organizations also request-
The Kentucky Coal Museum— preserved in its natural condition.
Trail offers a look at the inner workings of six of Kentucky’s bourbon
ed a review of permitting from the
built to honor and preserve the The Red River Gorge Geological Area distilleries. The distilleries are within 70 miles of each other and can
EPA. To keep up to date with these
coal mining heritage—was built in provides its visitors with camping, be seen in two days by a motivated visitor. Samples are available for
actions, please visit: kftc.org
the old commissary; the old white hiking, rock climbing and educational visitors over 21 and gift shops sell each distillery’s product, though Kentucky law prohibits
opportunities. For more information:
school was turned into a bed and visitors from purchasing more than three liters of bourbon per gift shop per day. Getting your
fs.fed.us/r8/boone/districts/cumberland/
breakfast; the old black school is View of the old Portal 31 entrance. Bourbon Trail Passport stamped at each of the six distilleries earns a free official Bourbon
redriver_gorge.shtml.
Photo courtesy of Portal 31 Museum Trail t-shirt. Visit: kybourbontrail.com. -- By Meg Holden
Page 16 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 17
Tennessee Tennessee
ROYAL BLUE
WILDLIFE
MANAGEMENT
Cherohala: View the Mountains from Among the Clouds
AREA
The beautiful rivers, remote mountains and rich foothills of Tennessee
By Julie Johnson sign. Follow this to Bald
stand their ground against encroaching industrial pollution.
Have you ever wondered how the River Falls, an incredible
Appalachian Range looked to pioneers cascade at the confluence of
Royal Blue Wildlife Management Area
FCARLELE K NORTH CAROLINA htaaiunl ipnags sa? w Oarg oton ath Crohuegrohk ae eh itgrahv merosuinng- the BHaelda da nbda cTke ltlioc oth Rei vSekrys-.
By JW Randolph FALLS a dividing ridge on foot? A trip on the way and continue east. The
Cherohala
Tennessee’s Great Skyway JOYCE KILMER Cherohala Skyway provides an ap- road ascends almost 1,000
Smoky Mountain Na- TELLICO proximate idea of how the virgin peaks feet in a 10 mile stretch.
PLAINS
tional Park is the most Great Smoky, or Great and foggy hollows must have looked in An unpaved road on your
visited national park in Smoggy Mountains? days gone by. left marks the entrance to
the entire United States. The scenic byway winds 50 miles a campground on pristine
People flock from all Excerpt by Kerri Weatherly across the high mountains, connecting Indian Boundary Lake. The Photo courtesy of
over the world to see The Great Smoky Mountains National Tellico Plains, Tenn. and Robbinsville, sites are well-maintained the Monroe County
Department of Tourism
the rolling hills and sce- the bills from becoming law. Park acquires more sulfur and N.C. It soars to an elevation of 5,390 and have picnic tables and
nic vistas of the beauti- While strip-mining still poses a nitrogen pollution than any monitored feet, and offers multiple overlooks, miles lantern posts. A 3.2 mile trail
backcountry. gorgeous old-growth forest is the perfect
ful eastern mountains. great threat to many of the states amaz- national park in the country. Visual of hiking trails and incredible off-road circles the lake and exploring by canoe
As you descend the Skyway—fol- finale to your look back in time. Some of
One special place ing assets such as Royal Blue Wildlife clarity on a typical day in the Smoky destinations. is a must.
travelers often miss is Management Area, the practice of Mountains averages about 15 miles, The name combines the “Chero” Once you’re back on the Skyway, lowing the path of Santeetlah Creek—the the poplar trees in this grove have been
which is significantly less than normal Cherohala highway will dead end at NC standing for over 400s years.
the Royal Blue Wild- Longtail Salamander in Royal Blue. Photo by Matthew Niemiller filling in valleys with mining waste conditions—about 77 miles. Industrial from the Cherokee National Forest in there are multiple hiking opportunities Highway 143. Taking a left here will put Nearby Horse Cove campground
life Management Area. permit holder. has become almost non-existent in regions in Tennessee, Ohio and which it begins, and the “hala” from the as you cross the highest peaks around you on Country Road 1127, and a well- provides creek-side sites so you can end
Royal Blue encompasses more than Fishing for blue-gill is another favor- Tennessee. Mississippi produce pollution that is Nantahala National Forest at its eastern the state line. At the Mud Gap pull off, marked left turn off of this will take you your journey sleeping with sounds of the
50,000 acres of majestic mountain forests ite local past-time. The area is peppered Grassroots groups like Statewide carried eastward into the park. terminus. The route was conceived in you can access the Whigg Meadow Trail to Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. Little Santeetlah Creek rushing towards
in the Cumberland Plateau, and includes with serene swimming holes, lakes, and Organizing for Community Empower- Research and observation of air quality 1958 by the Tellico Plains Kiwanis Club to a high mountain field perfect for The loop trail through this stand of Santeetlah Lake.
elevations well over 3,000 feet. waterfalls, and great fishing for blue-gill ment (SOCM) have fought for citizen in the Great Smoky Mountains National as means of connecting Tennesseans with picnicking.
This central Tennessee hideaway and other delicious swimmers. protections from surface mining, and Park over the past few decades shows their Carolina neighbors and creating Slightly farther east is Hooper Bald.
has become a favorite of hikers, bikers, However, this special area, like note that while there is less mountaintop that air pollution is also affecting the employment and education opportuni- A leisurely quarter mile path, clearly
horse-back riders and off-highway-vehi- much of the surrounding landscape, is removal in Tennessee than in past years, purity of streams, soils and plant life ties. The Skyway officially opened in marked from the road, takes you past
cle enthusiasts, as it contains more than severely threatened by strip-mining. there is more cross ridge mining. and degrading tourist satisfaction and 1996. rocks with Spanish carvings dated to
600 miles of thrilling trails and roads, Tennessee has a complicated relation- In the fall of last year, Governor cRoemnfmrou, naiirty q wuaelliltnye sspse, caiaclcisotr adti nthge t oG rJeimat A well-planned Skyway trek can the 1600s.
many former logging routes. Visitors ship with the practice, as it produces Bredesen asked the Office of Surface Smoky Mountains National Park. provide a perfect mountain weekend, In the early 1900s, the bald was
enjoy such woodland wildlife as wild very little coal, and the coal industry Mining (OSM) to administer a “Lands beginning at Tellico Plains and conclud- home to a hunting lodge, and the area SAME DAY-ONE VISIT
turkey, beaver, an occasional black bear has a relatively small impact on state Unsuitable for Mining” (LUM) designa- To read the full article on the health of ing at the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, was fenced in and stocked with wild
or the newly re-introduced elk. politics when compared to its northern tion for the North Cumberland Wildlife tohreg /S2m01o1k/y0 4M/1o2u/ngtraeinats-,s vmisoitk: ya.ppvoices. a stand of old-growth forest just off the game. As the lodge fell to disrepair, leg-
Hook and bullet enthusiasts will neighbors like Kentucky, West Virginia Management Area, which includes eastern end of the Cherohala. end has it, wild Russian boars escaped
find a fantastic place to relax with big and Virginia. Royal Blue. The LUM, if finalized, would From Tellico Plains you ascend fairly from the broken fencing and proliferated FREE TEETH WHITENING
game hunting. In 2009, Royal Blue The Tennessee state legislature has protect 600 feet on either side of the rid- quickly, crossing Stillhouse and Lyons in the nearby mountains. It is said that FOR FIRST 25 PATIENTS!
hosted the first managed elk hunt in enacted legislation that would ban strip- geline from coal mining. the OSM is currently finalizing an En- Creek and running alongside the Tellico more than 100 roam there today. The $300 VALUE!
Tennessee in over 150 years, with elk as mining on certain ridges, with coal-allied After receiving more than 20,000 vironmental Impact Statement (EIS), River. After five miles on the Cherohala, view from the bald shows the incred-
large as 750 pounds going to a privileged lawmakers going to great lengths to keep comments regarding these protections, which will lead to a draft proposal and take a right turn at a ‘Ranger Station’ ible vista of the Snowbird Mountain •Cannot be•W usiethd Einx acmon, Cjulnecatnioinng w&i tXh -aRnayy sother offer
further comment period. •Expires 7/31/11
“If the LUM goes through, that just FREE EXAMS
Photo courtesy Fly-fishing in Eastern Tennessee saves the ridges of Royal Blue. It is a
of the Tennessee great first step at protection, but there’s • Delicious Deli-Style & X-RAYS!
Department The tail-waters of the South Holston and Watauga rivers in
of Tourist Eastern Tennessee rival fly-fishing destinations around the still a lot of strip-mining that could be Sandwiches • Exam - D0110 / X-Rays - D0210 / With Cleaning - D1110
Development done outside of that 600 foot zone,” says • Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer
country. • Expires 7/31/11
• Homemade Soups
SOCM organizer Ann League. “These All Offers for New Patients Only
“They’re as good as most rivers out west,” said Slate Lacy,
Wildlife Management Areas are little
owner of Foscoe Fishing Company. • Vegetarian Fare
Though Lacy’s business is located an hour and a half away in gdeemar,s a tnhdat w pero nteeecdt s toom meatkhein sgu rwe et haallt hthoeldy A P PA L ACHIAN DENTAL CARE
Boone, N.C., he guides most of his summertime fishing trips • and Much More!
stay there.”
Steven Airey, D.D.S., P.A.
along these paralleling tail-waters. Since the South Holston
For more information on LUM, visit
waters are dam released, the water is always cold, which is William Mott D.D.S. Licensed Orthodontist
SOCM.org.
ideal for catching trout in the summer. 240 Shadowline Drive, Boone, North Carolina
166 Furman Road, Suite A, Boone, NC 28607
[phone] • www.Peppers-Restaurant.com
-- By Jesse Wood 828-264-9938
Page 18 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... June/July 2011 June/July 2011 ..... The aPPalachian Voice ..... Page 19