Join NORA & MountainTrue for French Broad River Section 10 Cleanups

The French Broad River has long been at the heart of our mountain communities — a place of beauty, recreation, and connection. It is also a river that faces serious challenges: flooding, debris, and pollution threaten its health and the people who depend on it.

That’s why MountainTrue and NORA are teaming up this fall to launch a series of pilot cleanup events on Section 10 of the French Broad, stretching from Hot Springs, NC to Del Rio, TN.

A Dream Team for the River

For decades, MountainTrue has been a leader in conservation and advocacy across Western North Carolina, protecting clean water, healthy forests, and resilient communities. Their work on the French Broad has inspired countless people to take action for the places they love.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, NORA (Nolichucky Outdoor Recreation Association) has emerged as one of the most effective and productive cleanup teams in the region. In just a year, NORA crews have removed hundreds of thousands of pounds of debris from flood-impacted waterways, while employing local guides and restoring access to rivers that fuel outdoor recreation and local economies.

Together, these two organizations form a true dream team for river restoration — pairing MountainTrue’s conservation expertise with NORA’s boots-on-the-ground cleanup force. The result: a partnership ready to make a lasting difference for the French Broad.

Upcoming Pilot Events

This October, we’ll kick off with three pilot cleanup missions. Each event brings volunteers, outfitters, and local partners together to clear debris, protect habitat, and create safer recreation spaces:

• Thursday, October 2 – Register Here

• Thursday, October 9 – Register Here

• Thursday, October 16 – Register Here

Event Details:

• Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Meeting Location: Paint Rock River Access

• What to Bring: Sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and gloves (if you have them). Cleanup supplies provided.

Be Part of the Story

These first three events are just the beginning. By joining in, you’ll be part of a larger effort to restore the French Broad, safeguard its future, and build resilience for the communities along its banks.

This is a story of collaboration, commitment, and community action. MountainTrue’s conservation leadership and NORA’s cleanup power are coming together to give the French Broad the care it deserves.

Sign up on our event page and help write the next chapter for this historic river.