Date: May 9, 2024

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Trailside Brewing Co.

Speakers: Jack Henderson, MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager

Come learn about the history, present condition, and opportunities for growth facing the French Broad Paddle Trail in Henderson County and abroad. Placed in the context of challenges from proposed dams, degraded water quality, and short-sighted growth, the French Broad River is an ongoing success story due the work of passionate local communities, well-organized advocacy campaigns, and strong partnerships between non-profits, government agencies, and local businesses. The French Broad Paddle Trail focuses on recreational access, stewardship, and information along the river, led by MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper program, and this presentation will give an overview of the Trail in general, share updates on specific projects occurring here in Henderson County, and inform attendees on how they can get involved and support this work.

Jack Henderson is MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager. In this role, he helps create, maintain, and improve public river access points, campsites, signage, and information; remove garbage; manage woody debris; and host events focused on celebrating and learning about the river. Jack has degrees in geography and recreation management from Appalachian State University, and has worked for several non-profits focused on conservation and recreation here in Western North Carolina, and elsewhere around the United States, since 2010. Jack loves human-powered recreation, with a special affinity for remote rivers and rocky trails. He can often be found where there is greenery and gradient.

5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.

6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!

Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn more about current environmental issues, have relevant discussions, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks, just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

Contact Pam Torlina, [email protected], with questions or for more information.