Stepping Up in the Storm: Blue Ridge Paddling’s Unshakable Commitment to Community

When floodwaters surged through the Nolichucky River Valley, they didn’t just damage homes and businesses — they upended lives. One of the hardest-hit was Blue Ridge Paddling, a founding member of NORA and a pillar of the paddling community in Unicoi County.

Their boat barn was destroyed. Their main lodge was left with extensive damage. Their

entire property was severely impacted by the storm. But in the face of devastation, Blue Ridge

Paddling made a choice: they put their own recovery on hold to help the region begin

healing.

A Place to Begin the Cleanup

In the critical days after the flood, Blue Ridge Paddling opened their land — without hesitation — to serve as the primary staging area for cleanup contractors. Trucks, heavy equipment, and crews from across the region used their property to sort and remove flood debris, helping to clear roads, restore infrastructure, and bring order to chaos.

But they didn’t stop there.

They also welcomed state DOT contractors, providing the access and space needed to support efforts to reopen I-26 within just weeks of the flood. Their actions helped reconnect isolated communities and move vital resources where they were needed most.

They did all this while their own buildings stood battered, their gear lost, and their future uncertain.

The Long Road to Rebuild

Now, as the initial emergency response winds down, Blue Ridge Paddling faces a long and costly road to recovery. Their business — built on years of hard work, stewardship, and a deep love for the river — needs community support to rise again.

They gave everything they had to help others. Now it's our turn to give back.

Show Your Support

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Blue Ridge Paddling rebuild their facilities, replace essential equipment, and return to doing what they do best: getting people out on the water and into nature.

🙏 Please consider donating here:

👉 GoFundMe – Help Blue Ridge Paddling Rebuild

Every contribution, large or small, helps restore not just a business, but a community hub that has always put people and the river first.

Why It Matters

Blue Ridge Paddling isn’t just an outfitter — they’re part of the soul of the Nolichucky. They’ve introduced countless people to the joy of paddling, supported conservation efforts, and built a culture of outdoor adventure rooted in care and respect for the land.

They showed up when the community needed them most. Let’s show up now — and help bring them back stronger than ever