Having trouble viewing this email? View it in your web browser

Five Questions Answered: Bacteria in the French Broad River

The French Broad River–one of the oldest rivers in the world, and an economic driver of some $3.8 billion to WNC’s regional economy–has been classified as “Impaired” for bacteria by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.

North Carolina’s latest list of impaired streams includes 19 miles of the French Broad main stem from Long Shoals Rd. in Asheville to the Craggy Dam in Woodfin, plus two streams that drain into it within city limits: Town Branch and Bacoate Branch. While bacteria and sediment have been a problem in our region for many years, being listed as impaired takes it to another level of concern.

The French Broad River being listed as impaired for bacteria is not cause for panic, but it should serve as a call to action. This blog post addresses five common questions about bacteria pollution in the French Broad River and offers actions the community can take to help address the issue.

What is ‘Panta Rhei’?

The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus mused on this concept, which roughly translates to 'Everything Flows'. He believed that change is the driving force of everything in the universe and uses a wonderful analogy to illustrate this, saying: “You cannot step twice into the same rivers; for fresh waters are ever flowing in upon you.”

We think this can be perfectly applied to the French Broad and all the progress she has made over the last few decades. It's not just the river that is always changing, but ourselves as well. When you step into the river it will never be the same water, and you will never be the same version of yourself. We all have the capacity to change our relationship with the river. We have the power to alter her ever changing waters to support more life, breed more connection with the outdoors, and bring more peace and beauty to our community.

Monarchs Munching on Milkweed

Latin: Asclepias tuberosa

The colorful flowers of Butterfly Milkweed bring beauty to a many of our region's natural spaces. It thrives in full sun, well-draining soil, and is commonly present in WNC prairies and wildflower meadows. The fine, feathery fibers of the seed, called silk or floss, allow them to be carried on the wind.

As the name suggests, this plant serves as a food source for the larval caterpillars of Monarch butterflies. The leaves of Butterfly Milkweed produce a mildly toxic substance that deters most herbivores. Monarch caterpillars have developed a tolerance to the toxin, so they can feast without competition--while making themselves toxic to most of their own predators! Adult Monarchs also visit this plant for its abundant nectar, advertised through the attractive orange and yellow flowers. 

This plant has also served humans in many ways. Native Americans used the boiled roots to treat respiratory and stomach illnesses. The seed fibers have also been used to stuff mattresses, pillows, and even life jackets!

Whatever part of our mission inspires you--whether it's educating the next generation of river stewards...advancing land and water management for a healthy watershed...or energizing economic vitality and public access in a thriving French Broad riverway...

Thanks for being part of our French Broad River community!

RiverLink promotes the environmental and economic vitality
of the French Broad River and its watershed. Please join us with a gift today!