recovery and rebuilding after hurricane helene
On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene hit the high mountain peaks of western North Carolina and East Tennessee, bringing widespread destruction from flooding, landslides, and wind. Livelihoods and real human lives were washed away. For the farming community, we know an estimated 1,300 farms along the Nolichucky River were severely altered and damaged.
It’s not only what was washed away, but what was left behind: debris, cobble rock, tons of sand and silt, and a host of challenges to confront for years to come.
ARCD is committed to both Funding and Restoration services for family farms and food security in East TN….
and you can help play a role in this journey!
direct service for farmers
NOW OPEN FOR FUNDING APPLICATIONS
THE RESILIENT FARMER FUND – GRANTS
Who can apply? Small Farmers and Food Producers In Johnson, Carter, Unicoi, Washington, Greene, Cocke, Hamblin & Sevier Counties Who Are Still Economically Recovering From Hurricane-Related Damages Associated with Flooding and Debris from the Hurricane Helene Storm Event at the end of September 2024.
Application window: Open Oct 19 through November 30, 2026.
Applicants should describe how they are still rebuilding after Helene and how they would use between $2,000 & $10,000 on eligible expenses to build back stronger.
Eligible projects:
- Equipment Replacement Essential For Operation
- Infrastructure Repairs Still Offline (Barns, Irrigation, Etc.)
- Topsoil Replenishment
- Bridge or Culvert Replacement
- Drainage systems Replacement or Upgrade
- Fencing Repairs or Replacement
- Farm Path/Road Repairs
- Streambank Stabilization
- Invasive Plant Removal From Disturbed Flood Sites
- Debris or Hazardous Fuel Removal
stabilize & replant
ARCD has volunteer power and funding to stabilize stream banks and replant trees. We can also do some invasive treatment and may be able to masticate hazardous fuel before the wildfire season.
This is support by TN Division of Forestry and the soil and water team at University of TN Institute for Agriculture.
To date, volunteers have stabilized and replanted 5,000 feet of streambank and planted nearly 6,000 trees on area farmers.
Contact Jillian at jillian@arcd.org or 432-426-0560
help make a difference
stories of resiliency
This video was filmed with Chroma Creative around one-year after the Hurricane, shows stories from two farms and how they have rebuilt, their challenges, and why community support is essential to recovering fully.
Nov 7: Concert for conservation
On November 7, The Bluegrass Gentlemen (from North Carolina) are hosting a Conservation for Conservation at the Capitol Hall Theater in Erwin! Tickets are just $30. Join us!
This concert held in downtown Erwin is a celebration of ARCD’s work with conservation through water, fire, and earth.
Opening act is the winners of this year’s songwriters Love For the Land competition: Will Kruger, Sandra Lambert and Sarah Doan.
Tickets on sale at www.capitolhall.com
JOIN THE tn sTREAM TEAM!
Looking for an outdoor conservation volunteer commitment that also gives back for flood recovery?
The TN Stream Team is out on properties now! They play a significant role in stabilizing barren and eroding rivers and streambanks and replanting native species. ARCD provides training, equipment, and all logistics.
This is a perfect volunteer opportunity for active people who are available to commit invest 8 – 12 hours per month.
To date, volunteers have stabilized and replanted 5,000 feet of streambank and planted nearly 6,000 trees! Join us in 2026-2027!
