Conservation Celebration: Planting Hope
Saturday, September 19, 2026
4:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Blue Ridge Community College, Flat Rock, NC
The Conservation Celebration is our signature fundraiser, bringing together our incredible community to celebrate Conserving Carolina’s accomplishments in protecting the natural wonders of our region and to raise vital funds for a more resilient future. This year’s event features a special program: Planting Hope.
Event tickets will be available in late July.
Event Features
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Keynote speaker: Leigh Ann Henion
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Planting Hope program
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Video premiere
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Trip raffle drawing
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Buffet dinner by Black-Eyed Susan Catering
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Wine by Saint Paul Mountain Vineyard
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Beer donated by New Belgium Brewing
Conservation Celebration Sponsorships
Making a Difference Together
As we celebrate conservation together with our friends, partners, and supporters – it’s important to highlight that the work we do is only made possible through people like you. Thanks to your support, we’re able to:
- Protect vital lands: Conserving Carolina has protected over 51,000 acres, including iconic landscapes like Chimney Rock State Park, DuPont State Forest, and Headwaters State Forest.
- Safeguard clean water: We work to protect the headwaters of rivers and streams, ensuring clean drinking water for our communities and healthy aquatic ecosystems.
- Restore critical habitats: We restore degraded natural areas, improving habitat for wildlife and promoting biodiversity.
- Create and maintain trails: We build and maintain miles of trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- Inspire the next generation of conservationists: We offer educational programs and outreach initiatives to connect people with nature and foster a love of the outdoors.
- Strengthen our community: By protecting our natural resources, we enhance the quality of life for everyone in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina.
- Partner with landowners: We work closely with private landowners to develop conservation easements and other tools to protect their land for future generations.
- Advocate for conservation: We engage in public policy and advocacy efforts to promote sound conservation practices and protect our natural resources.
- Build a stronger, more resilient region: By protecting our natural assets, we contribute to the economic vitality and resilience of our communities.
