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The Little River
Watermark
FODF Newsletter Committee: Nancy Kay - Newsletter Editor,
Nancy Black - Copy Editor, Kent Wilcox, Aleen Steinberg,
Jerry Brown & Helen Lee.
Newsletter Contributors: Aleen Stein-
berg, Lilian Birchfield, Anita Gold-
schmidt, Jason Guidry, Nancy Kay,
Bev Parlier, Tom Parlier, Bob Twomey,
Kent Wilcox
A Celebration of 15 years Article by Aleen Steinberg
Photos by Lillian Birchfield & Anita Goldschmidt
On December 17th, 2000, following the acquisition of the “Heart of the Forest,” a light dusting of snow greeted the first few visitors to visit Triple and High Falls. Fifteen years later, sunshine, blue skies, and a temperature hover-ing near 48 degrees helped welcome a crowd to the ASC to celebrate that Anniversary.
Cups of hot cider helped take the chill away as friends and supporters of DuPont Forest gathered by the front steps for the program. And what a program it was, highlighting “where we’ve been, where we are and where we’re going.”
After a welcome by FODF President Bev Parlier, Repre-sentative Chuck McGrady led the audience through a brief history of acquisition of the “Heart of the Forest”, the property that included High, Triple and Bridal Veil Falls. He then called out names of Friends of the Falls, the group that led the fight, and thirteen of those friends who were in attendance raised their hands.
(Continued on page 16)
Friends of DuPont Forest (FODF) is a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the
public’s enjoyment of the Forest while protecting its natural and historic resources.
FODF president Bev Parlier addresses the audience surrounded by sign-
age from earlier days
Aleen Steinberg addresses the audience
Mountain (3,785 feet). Steel Creek is the primary tributary in the
headwaters of the Little River on the north side of the valley
(Figure 3). The south slopes of the upper valley descend from a
ridge that extends from East Fork Road eastward to Quillen
Mountain (3258 feet) on the NC/SC state line. The South Prong
of the Little River is the primary tributary in the headwaters of
the Little River on the south side of the valley (Figure 4).
(Continued on page 4)
Page 2
Where Does The Water Come From? Part 2 Article & photos by Kent Wilcox
Part one of this article, within the October, 2015 edition of this
newsletter, described the creeks and rivers that carry water from
DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF) to the Gulf of Mexico.
What you are about to read describes what is upstream from the
Forest, including the streams, lakes, and land uses in the Rea-
sonover Creek and Little River watersheds. Reasonover Creek
and the Little River are the primary streams that carry water into
DSRF.
Reasonover Creek is the principal source of water for Lake Julia.
It enters the Forest downstream from the dam for Reasonover
Lake (Figure 1), a privately owned 14-acre lake located south of
DSRF on Reasonover Road. A spillway controls passive water
flow from Reasonover Lake, so the amount of water carried via
Reasonover Creek into Lake Julia is governed primarily by rain-
fall.
The portion of the Reasonover Creek watershed (Figure 2) that
is upstream from DSRF consists of approximately 1,335 acres.
Five owners, including a corporation that owns 500 acres, hold
most of this acreage. There are approximately ten private resi-
dences and a retreat center within the watershed. There are no
commercial agricultural, industrial operations, or retail outlets
within the Reasonover Creek watershed. Thanks to the conserva-
tion-minded landowners in this watershed, the water quality in
Reasonover Creek and Lake Julia is exceptionally high.
The Little River watershed upstream from DSRF is larger and
much more complex than the Reasonover Creek watershed. To
explore this watershed, let’s take a virtual trip from west to east
along highway US 276 (aka, the Greenville Highway). We’ll
begin at the junction of US 276 with East Fork Road, which is
seven miles southeast of downtown Brevard. Approximately 0.2
miles east of this junction, US 276 crests over a slight rise and
enters the Little River watershed. The entrance to the Sequoyah
Woods community on the north side of the highway is a good
place to view the upper valley and slopes that define the head-
waters of the Little River. The north slopes of the valley (left
side of US 276) descend from a ridge that is capped by Rich
Figure 1- Reasonover Lake dam
Figure 2 - Map of Reasonover Creek watershed
Figure 3 - Map of the north side of the headwaters of the Little River
Note From The Editor Article by Nancy Kay
This Issue
A Celebration of 15 years 1 & 16
Where Does Water Come From 2,4,5,15
Presidents Report 3
Note From the Editor 3
Canoe Day 2015 6
Movie Making in DuPont 7
Allen Steinberg Visitor Center
Update 8-9
FODF Partners with National
Geographic to Create New
Forest Map
10-11
Scenes From Tour de Falls 12
Volunteer Appreciation 13
Forest Supervisor’s Report 14-15
Business Memberships 17
Membership Form 18
Page 3
Greetings! I hope you have been enjoying your FODF newsletters as much as I have been enjoying editing them. We owe a world of thanks to those who have contributed articles and photos. Some of the articles, such as the one about water flow in DuPont found in this issue, have required hours of research. We are also indebted to FODF member Nancy Black who spends many hours formatting each of our newsletters. The end result is love-ly, and we have Nancy to thank for that.
If you have an idea for an article or would like to write an article or submit photos for the newsletter, I invite you to contact me.
The members of the FODF Newsletter Committee join me in wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy new year.
Nancy Kay
707-477-6683
This year, more than 600,000 people are expected to visit DuPont. What greater impact will they have on trails and re-sources?
So many questions, so many questions. Please reflect on these them and email comments or suggestions to me ([email protected]) or any other Board member. Your Board of Directors will be working on the answers to these questions. I’m sure it will be an exciting year at DuPont!
President’s Report By Bev Parlier, Photos by Bev & Thomas Parlier
See you on the trails ~
Bev Parlier Friends of DuPont Forest President
Fellow FODF members, I wish you a hearty and healthy New Year! It is common practice in a New Year to take stock and re-flect on oneself. So, allow me to do that for FODF. Our Mission Statement says, “Friends of DuPont Forest is a non-profit, volun-teer organization dedicated to enhancing the public’s enjoyment of the Forest while protecting its natural and historic resources.” But what is our yearly goal? Is it to sell products, fund educational programs, and/or repair trails? Yes, we need to generate funds in order to give back to the Forest, but are there ways to do this that haven’t been approached?
On Thanksgiving Friday over 600 visitors came through the ASC. How many of those visitors would have been willing to join FODF or buy a map? It is surprising to me when I volunteer in the ASC how many first-time visitors there still are to DSRF. Many inquire about a Junior Ranger program or ask about buying a souvenir tee shirt, hiking stick medallion, or a DuPont patch. Should we be doing some of these things?
Possibly soon the DuPont private property (donut hole) will be turned over to the state. What is our long-range vision concerning this opportunity?
This past December, FODF celebrated the fifteenth anniversary of acquiring the waterfall corridor (the “Heart” of the Forest). What’s in store for the next 15 years?
Our newest map, in partnership with National Geographic, has just been published. Because our logo and mission statement is on the map, it will bring greater exposure to FODF.
President Bev Parlier
Note From the Editor By Nancy Kay
Where Does The Water Come From? Part 2 (Continued from page 2)
Page 4
Steel Creek begins at the outflow from an 11-acre lake at
Camp High Rocks. The lake is fed by several creeks that origi-
nate from springs (Figure 5) on the south slope of Rich Moun-
tain. Steel Creek flows downhill to a waterfall (Figure 6)
above the upper end of a 9-acre lake in Sequoyah Woods. Af-
ter exiting the Sequoyah Woods community, Steel Creek flows
through a culvert under US 276. Approximately 600 feet
downstream from the highway, Steel Creek converges with the
South Prong of the Little River (Figure 7). The Little River
begins at the confluence of these two streams.
The South Prong of the Little River originates from springs
above Happy Acres Road and flows approximately 1.5 miles
downhill into a private 1.7 acre lake. The spillway from the
lake reduces the South Prong of the Little River to an inglori-
ous stream of water that gushes from a pipe at the confluence
with Steel Creek (Figure 7).
From the confluence of Steel Creek with the South Prong of
the Little River, the Little River and US 276 follow a nearly
parallel course for the next three miles to the Cedar Mountain
Fire Department at the intersection of Cascade Lake Road with
US 276 and Reasonover Road. Although not confirmed by the
author, there is evidence that a portion of the Little River channel
was straightened when US 276 was improved many years ago
(Figure 8). On the north side of this 3-mile stretch (Figure 3),
Ibby Creek and several unnamed creeks flow down from the
slopes of Rich Mountain through culverts under US 276, and
into the Little River. On the south side of this 3-mile stretch
(Figure 4), Morgan Creek and Mill Creek carry water from
springs on Quillen Mountain through five lakes (approximately
25 acres total) in the Sherwood Forest community and then into
the Little River at a point where it flows through the Sherwood
Forest golf course. A mile downstream from Sherwood Forest,
the Little River is fed by the waters from Pole Bridge Branch
which also originate from springs on the slopes of Quillen
Mountain.
(Continued on page 5)
Figure 4 - Map of the south side of the headwaters of the Little River
Figure 5 - Example of a mountain spring in the Little River watershed
Figure 6 - Waterfall along Steel Creek
Figure 7 - Convergence of Steel Creek (right side of photo) with the South Prong
of the Little River (gushing from pipe) to create the Little River (left side of
photo) flowing to the left.
Page 5
Just beyond the Cedar Mountain Fire Department, the Little
River flows under US 276 and then follows a course that is
nearly parallel to Reasonover Road. However, US 276 contin-
ues within the Little River watershed for another 1.6 miles to
the southeast before it crosses a slight ridge at the NC/SC state
boundary that is also the Eastern Continental divide (the line at
which point water flows either into the Gulf of Mexico or the
Atlantic Ocean (Figure 9). Several streams originate from
springs on slopes near the NC/SC line, flow under US 276 and
then join the Little River downstream of the fire department.
Particularly noteworthy is Clear Creek, which is fed by three
large lakes (approximately 112 acres total) in the Stones Lake
Community and flows into the south side of the Little River
immediately behind the Cedar Mountain Fire Department.
Remarkably, Buckhorne Creek, fed by numerous tributaries that
originate from slopes along Rich Mountain Road, flows into the
north side of the Little River immediately behind the Cedar
Mountain Fire Department (Figure 9). The convergence of
Clear Creek, Buckhorne Creek, and the Little River near the
intersection of US 276, Cascade Lake Road, and Reasonover
Where Does The Water Come From? Part 2 (Continued from page 4)
Road has created major floods that block access to DSRF via
these routes. Duncan Creek, which originates from springs on
ridges near Duncan Mountain and flows from east to west along
the south side of Reasonover Road, is the last named tributary of
the Little River before it enters DSRF (Figure 10). Although
relatively obscure, Duncan Creek has been used by landowners
to create at least six small ponds along its course.
In spite of the absence of strict zoning laws and comprehensive
land use planning, the environment within the Little River water-
shed upstream of DSRF remains relatively pristine and healthy.
Most of the approximately 10,300 acres within the watershed are
privately owned. Thirty percent of the watershed is owned by a
total of six families and corporations.
Fortunately, in spite of extensive logging over the past 100 years
and the creation of multiple private communities, most of the
watershed remains forested. There are more than a thousand
residential lots. Although most lots range from 0.25 to 20 acres
in size, there are at least a dozen private holdings of 200 to 1,100
acres, including Camp High Rocks which oversees more than
1,000 acres and at least two private holdings of more than 500
acres each.
Landowners who have worked with Carolina Mountain Land
Conservancy to place a conservation easement on a portion of
their properties in order to help protect the watershed deserve
special thanks. Most of the businesses that cater to the public are
along US 276. Notably, there are no large farms (less than 100
acres are cultivated for crops), although some landowners main-
tain some cows, horses, goats, and chickens.
(Continued on page 17)
Figure 8 - This straight channel for the Little River is unusual for a stream that typically follows a meandering path through the gently sloping valley floor
Figure 9 - Map showing location of streams that originate near the Eastern Continental Divide and flow into the Little River.
Figure 10 - Map showing the location of Duncan Creek.
Oh, what spectacular autumn weather we had this past October for Canoe Day! Canoe Day is an annual FODF member only event held yearly on Lake Julia. This year, approximately 20 people attended. As everyone enjoyed canoeing around 100-acre Lake Julia, Dick Childs kept watch over the grill. It was nice to see members getting to know each other over a delicious lunch of hotdogs and sumptuous side dishes!
By the way, Lake Julia is the second largest lake in Transylvania County. Lake Toxaway is the largest. There are old docks and a boathouse left over from the Camp Summit days (1960's to 1980's) on the lake.
But, the best part of Canoe Day is canoeing to the backside of Lake Julia and stopping in the cove and listening to ........the quiet.
MANY thanks go to the following people for their help in mak-ing this day possible:
Dick and Suzanne Child obtained the canoes from Green River Preserve
Dick Childs was the head grill chef, Tom Parlier was the shuttle driver, Lynn Harton was the gatekeeper.
Be sure to look for the 2016 Canoe Day on the Events Calendar!
Page 6
Canoe Day 2015 Article & photos by Bev Parlier
Idyllic fall scenery graces Canoe Day
Successful launch onto Lake Julia
Carmen Durham maps her paddling route on DuPont’s Avenza Map App
Dick Childs is truly a grill master!
How do you want your Friends of DuPont newsletter delivered?
The Little River Watermark is published quarterly. We send out an electronic copy of the newsletter to all members with a
valid e-mail address. You can also read the current issues and archived issues on the dupontforest.com website. Click on
Newsletters on the left of the screen. For members who do not have an e-mail address or who have not requested e-mail deliv-
ery, we send a printed copy by first class mail. We are happy to supply The Little River Watermark in the form you like best.
If you wish to receive an e-mail copy instead of the printed version or if you are currently not receiving a printed version and
wish to request that form of delivery, let us know at [email protected]. We will update your profile so you get
the news that is the best way for you!
Movie-Making in DuPont By Bev Parlier
Page 7
Have you seen the movie, Artemis? It was shot at DuPont and is definitely a blockbuster. Hoards of people have stopped into the Visitor Center to ask about exact shooting locations.
Just how does a movie company pick a location to film such as DuPont Forest? The director, who pulls it all together, begins by talking to the state film office. The director is then put in touch with local “scouts” who show the director specific places to film particular scenes. Movie scenes are not always shot in the sequence one sees on the big screen, and a company may return several times to a location for different scenes. As the film is put together, many scenes may be cut.
Incentives for a movie company to come to an area may include tax breaks, grants, equipment rental, hotels, and area amenities. There is no charge to a film production company using state facilities but DSRF can collect reimbursement.
Okay, so scouts show directors locations- now what’s been filmed in DSRF? The list includes, The Last of the Mohicans, Alone Yet Not Alone, The Healer, the first Hunger Games, and, just last summer, Max.
Some Fun Film Facts
Hunger Games had closed sets and hired security. On the other hand, the production crew for Max did not mind hav-ing Forest visitors watch the filming.
Both Max and Hunger Games were filmed entirely in North Carolina locations.
Many locals worked on the film crews.
The character of Max was actually played by several dogs. Each dog had a trainer and an air-conditioned van. Make-up was used on the dogs to ensure they all looked alike.
When a film company leaves the Forest, everything is re-placed. The production company behind Hunger Games
paid for replacement of gravel in the Lake Imaging parking lot and planted lots of rhododendrons.
Out of context places are included in films. For example, in the scene from the rock quarry in Max, one sees Linn Cove Viaduct (at Grandfather Mountain). In The Last of the Mo-hicans, the canoe goes over Hooker Falls into Lake James (near Morganton, NC). But it all works together!
The Forest Service monitors all scenes.
Many films, especially large-budget productions, will use a code title when filming in order to prevent sets from being mobbed by fans. Have you been wondering about the movie, Artemis, men-tioned above? Artemis was the code title for Hunger Games.
The state of North Carolina is not offering as many movie incen-tives as provided in the past. Hence, many films are now going to Georgia. Scouts from A W alk in the Woods did scout DuPont several years ago, but ended up doing most of the filming in Georgia.
So, the next time you see a huge food service tent in a parking lot at DuPont, and trucks and equipment, expect…….“Lights, cam-era, action!”
Max performs a scene in front of Hooker Falls
Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center Update Article and photos by Bob Twomey
Many things have been happening at the Aleen Steinberg Visi-tor Center (ASC) in the last year. In April we completed a new septic system installation for the public restrooms. The original system is still functional, but was easily overwhelmed by the number of DSRF visitors. So, now we have the new system in addition to the old system. Last October, a new system was installed exclusively for the Visitor Center. This is a sign of the tremendous growth in visitation to DuPont State Recreational Forest.
2015 marked the 100th anniversary of the NC Forest Service. As such, we had custom displays made depicting the many fac-ets of our statewide operations, both currently as well as over the last century. We also painted and repaired a 1959 Dodge Engine to be part of the centennial celebrations. The displays and the vehicle were first displayed here at the Steinberg Visi-tor Center, then at the Western North Carolina State Fair, and finally at the North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh. The displays and the Dodge Engine were all well received and we heard many comments about them.
Since July of this year, 341 people have attended programs and meetings of various types at the ASC classroom, totaling 61.5 hours of use. The new audio-visual system was installed this summer. Nearly any type computer can now be connected to it for programs and presentations. Additionally, we added win-dow blinds to enhance the visual presentations on the screen.
It was approved for FODF to add sturdy shelving to the ASC storage room, enhancing the efficiency of the limited amount of storage space available. Nearly all materials are now off the con-crete floor and are stored in a climate-controlled space.
New video cameras were installed to replace the older cameras donated to us by the Henderson County Visitors Bureau. The recording unit was also replaced to provide better, clearer securi-ty video that became available with the new cameras.
With funding provided by Chris McDonnell through an in-service volunteer program, an emergency contact feature was added to the radio system at the ASC. When a button is de-pressed, a tone alert and message is sent out to all of the radios carried by the Ranger staff notifying them of an emergency at the Visitor Center. It can then be determined if additional law enforcement assistance is needed relative to the even taking place.
Denver Beddingfield, the Public Information Assistant at the ASC, has secured more variety in state and federal brochures, maps, and information for use by our visitors. He keeps the dis-play racks upstairs full of useful information. Likewise, he has taken on the disabled visitors program and scheduling of sched-uling for the shelters throughout DuPont Forest.
(Continued on page 9)
Page 8
Restored Dodge Engine
Construction begins on the High Falls access road
Progress on the High Falls access road
Bob Marcum (132 hours), and Allan Roberts (113 hours). All told from the beginning of the year until 11/23, volunteers donat-ed 2,670.5 hours of service to the ASC. Their assistance is inval-uable. The comments we hear from visitors to the ASC and DSRF are exemplary. They say how helpful the Visitor Center staff members are and how beautiful the rustic building is- just plain, simple and efficient. This is a testament to the quality and professionalism of the volunteer staff!!
Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center Update (Continued from page 8)
If you’ve visited the High Falls parking area of late you entered the parking lot via the new High Falls access road. It was laid out and surveyed in December, 2014. The NC National Guard built this new road in the spring of 2015.
The last big projects of the year for the ASC have been the in-stallation of a 48-kilowatt emergency generator, a new well and pump system, and a new main gate system on Buck Forest Road. The generator is an auto-start system that activates as soon as commercial power is lost. Since the ASC can function as a command and control facility for searches and other emer-gencies, it was necessary to provide power during any type of weather emergency. Likewise, the ASC can function as a tempo-rary forest operations center during power outages.
The generator project was not possible without the assistance of Jim Erickson and WNC Communities who, you may remember, made the Visitor Center opening possible in 2013. WNC Com-munities provided project management and technical expertise throughout the project and continue to be a valuable partner for the Forest.
Between the opening of the ASC on July 1, 2013 and the end of 2014 (a period of 17 months), the Visitor Center tallied 107,282 visitors. Between January 1, 2015 and November 23, 2015 (a period of 11 months), there were 81,047 visitors.
There is a highly qualified staff of 48 volunteers who operate the ASC daily and who do an exceptional job assisting the visitors. More than 50 volunteers and staff members gathered at the Christmas Awards and Tree Trimming event on 12/4/2015. Awards were presented to the top 12 volunteers with the most hours of service. They included Abigale Bolton (273.5 hours), Judy Vangelis (200 hours), Chris McDonell (185.5 hours), Ruth Daniel (180 hours), Shae Kemerer (170 hours), Tom Daniel (167 hours), Jack Soyak (165.5 hours), Michael Rosenthal (151 hours), Helen Lee (137 hours), Nancy Rosenthal (134.5 hours),
Page 9
ASC’s bright, shiny, new generator
Volunteers trim the Visitor Center tree
ASC volunteers enjoy cookout at the office above Lake Julia
The reverse side of the map contains suggested trail
routes that are highlighted with descriptions, elevation
profiles and distances (Figure 3). These suggestions
run from 3-25 miles and include 2 waterfall routes. These
routes are favorites of FODF members and are designed to
be enjoyed by hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Many of the
longer routes have shorter alternative options included.
The map is a very manageable size (26.25 by 19.5 inch-
es).
Trail types are indicated. Single track nar row, single
track wide, forest road, and hiker only trails are examples.
The map complies with National Geographic carto-
graphic standards. These are the standards many of
you have come to know in other National Geographic
maps.
The map is waterproof and tear resistant.
The map includes a trail reference and rating grid
(Figure 4). Now it is easy to find the location of the
trail on the map! No more searching for a trail number!
(Continued on page 11)
Page 10
In partnership with National Geographic, Friends of DuPont
Forest has produced a brand new map. It has features not
found on any other current map of the Forest. After more than
one year of hard work by the FODF Map Committee, the com-
pleted NG map arrived in our hands in December.
Exciting features of this new map include the following:
Trail segments are labeled with the lengths between
intersections (Figure 1). How many times have you had
difficulty determining the length of your route? With this
map, it’s easy!
Trail segments are labeled with the level of difficulty
between intersections (Figures 1 and 2). Difficulties are
indicated using a green circle (easy), blue square
(intermediate), or black diamond (difficult). You will no
longer be surprised by a section of trail being easier or
more difficult than expected because of generalizations of
trail difficulty listed in a table. For example, Joanna Road
has sections that vary from easy to difficult (Figure 2).
FODF Partners with National Geographic to Create a New Forest Map
Article by Carmen Durham & photos by Jeff Durham
(Figure 1)
(Figure 2)
(Figure 3)
(Figure 4)
Page 11
FODF Partners with National Geographic to Create a New Forest Map (Continued from page 10)
Best of all, the map contains the FODF logo (on the
front page!) and a description of our organization.
Wherever this map is distributed, people will read
about Friends of DuPont Forest.
Does all of this information make you ready for your new
National Geographic map? You will receive one with your
annual membership renewal. Additionally, all new FODF
members will receive one.
Do you know others who visit the Forest? The National
Geographic map retails for $11.95 and it makes a great
gift. Maps can be purchased at the following locations:
1. www.dupontforest.com/visit/maps (accepts PayPal)
2. The Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center
3. FODF volunteers in Parking/Access Areas (We are in
need of volunteers for this. If you can help, please con-
tact Bev Parlier at 828-883-9278 or
4. Local retailers.
FODF has become an authorized dealer of this National Geographic map. This means that any sales made by FODF will help fund future projects that will benefit the Forest. Are you a retailer who would like to sell this new National Geographic maps in your establishment? If so, please con-tact Bev Parlier (828-883-9278 or [email protected]) for wholesale information.
The new National Geographic map!
FODF Map Committee members celebrate the arrival of the new map.
From left to right: Bev Parlier, Chuck Ramsey, Lynn Harton, Rella Allred,
Carmen Durham
Scenes From the September Tour de Falls Photos by Anita Goldschmidt
Page 12
We have many volunteers in the Forest- some short-timers and some long-timers. Bonnie Bomba is one of those long timers. She has been donating her time and energy since 2000! As you’ll see below, Bonnie has done a bit of everything in the Forest! Thank you Bonnie!
What are your volunteer activities, past and present?
In the spring of 2000, at the suggestion of Aleen Steinberg, I sold maps at Hooker Falls. I had a "hand made" poster, and maps, on my windshield. I sold 100 maps at $6 each at this first FODF map sale. At the second Tour de Falls I was re-sponsible for assigning hosts at each of the waterfall stops. I also used my horse trailer to sell snacks and water. I was also was a Tour de Falls bus tour guide for many years. We also used that trailer at the first Canoe Day lunch for FODF volun-teers. It worked great with the long awning rolled out. When David Brown arrived I assisted him setting up protocols for procedures in the Forest. I sent out Christmas cards for the Rangers. I provided rum cakes for special occasions and meet-ings. I organized luncheons, large and small. For several years now I have mailed out maps ordered through PayPal. I still accomplish this task for FODF.
How long have you been donating your time to these pro-jects?
I volunteered weekly for 12 years, receiving many awards for achieving highest yearly hours. In 2010 I received the Bill Devendorf Award in appreciation for many years of outstand-ing dedication and distinguished volunteer service.
What fuels your desire to volunteer in the Forest?
After my first volunteer job selling maps Aleen asked me to take a day a week answering phones in the office. David Brown was the only Ranger at that time. I was happy to help and retired from that job 12 years later. I like helping people when I am needed and can accomplish duties as assigned. I find this very rewarding.
Volunteer Appreciation By Nancy Kay
Bonnie Bomba receiving the Bill Devendorf Award from David Brown
What is your favorite way to recreate in the Forest?
As an equestrian I enjoyed many hours in the Forest in the sad-dle. I would tie Jason, my horse, and sit at Triple Falls for my mental health treatment. I would always thank Mother Nature for her gift to us.
Do you have a favorite trail? If so, which one and why is it your favorite?
My favorite is Airstrip Trail. I love the way the sun shines through the trees making shadows on the trail. And, from Air-strip Trail I can see Rockridge,
my family summer/permanent home for the last 50 years.
If you could be granted one wish for the forest, what would it be?
I would like to see limited access to protect the environment, and through limiting access, insure the safety of all Forest visi-tors.
Page 13
April
More than 45,000 visitors- the most ever recorded for the month of April.
The NC National Guard mobilized equipment to begin construction of the “loop road” at the High Falls Access Area. Ap-proximately 18 NC Sol-diers, four dump trucks, two dozers, a motor grad-er, two Humvees, two rollers, a front loader, a tow truck, and two excavators were committed to the project for four weeks.
The NC Forest Service biennial report was published, with DSRF featured on page 22. (http://ncforestservice.gov/ncfs_statusreport.pdf)
The Western Piedmont Community College’s Sustainable and Construction Technologies program provided DSRF with several construction projects. FODF funded the projects and provided food for the class, which has since been discontin-ued by WPCC. This class had been a semi-annual event at DSRF and contributed to dozens of improvements that have enhanced our facility for the public. They will be missed.
The DSRF staff accomplished over 250 acres of prescribed burning in the month of April, mostly along Buck Forest and Conservation Roads.
Work began to thin the white pine plantation in the Dry Branch watershed, part of a plant community restoration pro-ject described in DSRF’s Dedicated Nature Preserve, estab-lished in 2000.
The DSRF Office Manager Lillian Birchfield began her ten-ure at the Forest.
May
More than 77,000 visitors- over 30,000 more visitors com-pared to the previous high in 2012.
The Blue Ghost Fireflies emerged for their annual mating period.
Ten’s of thousands of visitors came to DSRF over a three-week period to view the fireflies. FODF recruited volunteers to assist with informing the public and helping protect this natural element of DSRF.
June
More than 95,000 visitors were recorded. June of 2014 had over 62,000.
A new septic system field was installed at the Visitor Center restrooms. The previous field was designed for 400 gallons of treatment per day. We estimated that approximately 1000 people per day used the restrooms.
Most of the DSRF staff received training and certifications from Transylvania County to administer epinephrine for ana-phylaxis in emergency situations.
(Continued on page 15)
Dear FODF members, I want to share some of the highlights from this past year. As you will read, there is a lot that goes into managing DuPont State Recreational Forest. I want to extend my gratitude to you all for your commitment to this special place and look forward to the new opportunities that are sure to come in 2016. January
More than 14,700 visitors- the most ever recorded for the month of January.
The Boy’s Dining Hall, a derelict structure left from the Camp Summit days, was demolished. Cedar Mountain Fire and Rescue used the burning of the building for training purposes.
The NC Forest Service entered into its 100th year of service to the State of North Carolina.
DSRF Management Forester Michael Sweat led a forest management class for Haywood Community College.
February
This was the only month of 2015 that did not have a record high number of visitors.
DSRF hosted the first ever Law Enforcement course de-signed specifically for NC’s State Forest System.
I attended a two-week training exchange course for pre-scribed burning in Southern Pines (NC), sponsored by the Nature Conservancy.
Forester Michael Sweat attended training in Tallahassee, Florida to become a Geographical Information Systems Specialist.
Foot Rx of Asheville, a running enthusiast business, hosted a foot race on DSRF. Proceeds from the race were donated to the Friends of DuPont Forest.
March
More than 31,000 visitors- the most ever recorded for the month of March.
Forest Ranger Bruce MacDon- ald attended at joint training exercise with the NC National Guard and several other State partners. The goal of the training, called “Vigilant Guard” was to simulate a large-scale mobilization of military and National Guard resources into NC from outside of the State. The NC Forest Service provided nu-merous personnel to assist with the logistics of “Vigilant Guard”.
The NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and DSRF staff developed a new Emergency Action Plan for the Lake Julia dam.
The FODF approved funding for the “loop road” project at the High Falls Access Area.
The DSRF permitted the annual Jus’ Running 5k event at the Guion Farm. The event’s organizers donated the pro-ceeds to DSRF.
DSRF staff along with the NC Wildlife Resources Com-mission and Trout Unlimited coordinated a trout stocking project on the Little River, the first of a series of stockings throughout the year.
Henderson County Emergency Management Services co ducted Search and Rescue training at DSRF.
DuPont State Recreational Forest Supervisor’s Report By Jason I. Guidry
Page 14
Page 15
During the 2nd busiest month in the Forest’s history, the DSRF staff provided permits and monitored the following: 21 commercial or special use events, 11 picnic shelter reser-vations, and 8 disabled access permits.
DSRF Rangers provided assistance with 19 incidents involv-ing visitors on the Forest, issued 19 warning tickets, and ex-pelled numerous visitors for Forest Rule violations.
July
More than 98,675 visitors were recorded. July of 2014 had over 72,000.
During the busiest month in the Forest’s history, the DSRF staff provided permits and monitored the following: 26 com-mercial or special use events, 7 picnic shelter reservations, and 8 disabled access permits.
More than four miles of DSRF trails were improved by re-building trail features or rerouting trails to new locations. Hooker Creek, Jim Branch, Guion, and Ridgeline all received reroutes on certain sections. FODF funded the work which was contracted to Trail Dynamics, LLC.
DSRF Ranger Eric Folk led a Forest Recreation class from Haywood Community College at the Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center Classroom.
DSRF Rangers provided assistance with 19 incidents with visitors on the Forest, issued 21 warning tickets, and expelled numerous visitors for Forest Rule violations.
The DSRF staff presented at the International Bog Day Sym-posium at the Cedar Mountain Community Center. The sym-posium was sponsored by the Friends of Plant Conservation and the NC Plant Conservation Program (a sister agency of the NC Forest Service within the NC Department of Agricul-ture and Consumer Services).
August
More than 81,000 visitors were recorded. August of 2014 had over 58,000.
An emergency alert system was installed in the Aleen Stein-berg Visitor Center to be part of the emergency response for serious incidents at the High Falls Access Area. Two high-definition security cameras and a new video recording system were also installed. FODF member and volunteer Chris McDonnell made this possible through his annual contribu-tion to the Forest.
Asheville Fire Department conducted water rescue and rope rescue training on DSRF at Lake Julia and the rock quarry.
The newly rerouted Guion Trail opened to the public, provid-ing a safer alternative than Sky Valley Road for equestrians, hikers, and bikers.
The University of Wisconsin and Mars Hill College complet-ed a visitor survey at DSRF. The survey showed that most of the visitors to DSRF during July were from outside of NC and that hiking and waterfall viewing were the most common uses of DSRF by those surveyed.
September
More than 70,000 visitors were recorded. September of 2014 had approximately 35,000.
DSRF hosted the annual meeting of the National Association
of Research Station Superintendents at the Triple Falls shelter. Superintendents from all 50 states and provinces were in attendance.
DSRF developed the first-ever exhibit about the Forest at the Mountain State Fair. Trail signs and our trail map were on display as well as an antique fire engine that has been restored on DSRF.
Forester Michael Sweat and I were dispatched to Idaho and Washington for fire control assistance. The two-week as-signment was part of international efforts to assist the state of Washington in an historically severe fire season. Mi-chael and I were assigned to the same fire complex and never saw each other due to different responsibilities.
A Conservation Biology class from Brevard College con-ducted a visitor survey on DSRF during several weeks in September. They presented results to the DSRF staff which showed a high level of satisfaction among visitors with DSRF and that the majority of visitors during September were above the age of 50.
October
More than 79,000 visitors were recorded in spite of heavy rainfall on three weekends. October of 2014 had approxi-mately 56,000.
DSRF presented an update on programming and visitation to Transylvania County’s VISION program at Gorges State Park.
I attended the October meeting of the Transylvania County Natural Resources Council (TNRC) at the Cradle of Forest-ry. The TRNC is authorized and appointed by the County’s Board of Commissioners to advise on the area’s resource management issues.
DSRF and Mountain True collaborated on a project to con-duct a survey of exotic and invasive plant species on the Forest. The survey focused on DSRF access areas and the interior road system, and will guide future control efforts going forward.
November
More than 42,000 visitors were recorded. November of 2014 had over 27,000.
The DSRF staff attended a Wilderness First Aid course designed by NC Forest Service personnel, including DSRF Ranger Eric Folk.
DSRF hosted the annual training event known as the DuPont Rescue Experience, a well known and highly re-garded training course for the search and rescue agencies from across North Carolina.
The DSRF Water Resources Master Restoration Plan was completed by the NC Forest Service. This plan was funded by grants obtained by the NC Forest Service’s Water Re-sources Branch and identified 67 sites (streams, trail cross-ings, storm water features, etc.) that could be improved to protect water quality.
The DSRF staff completed an approximately 30-acre pre-scribed burn near Table Rock Trail off of Sky Valley Road. This was the first fall season burn on the Forest in several years.
(Continued on page 17)
DuPont State Recreational Forest Supervisor’s Report (Continued from page 14)
Bill Yarborough, Special Assistant to the Commissioner of Agriculture, next shared insight to the ongoing effort currently under way to acquire the “hole in the doughnut, ” an exciting prospect that brought nods and smiles to the faces of the audi-ence.
Forest Supervisor Jason Guidry, then led us on what he envi-sions for the future, acquisition of new acres, new capital im-provements, a solution to parking issues, and how to manage the influx of so many Forest visitors.
I then recognized the individuals of the Events Committee that made this Celebration possible in just 12 short days. I thanked Peg Bresnahan for manning the refreshment table, Dan Bresna-han for setting up and taking down chairs and tables, Jerry Brown for outstanding research and publicity, Alan Cameron for his display of critters in DuPont, Helen Lee for coordinating the refreshments, Kathy Reiff for organizing a successful mem-bership table and Dick Thompson for helping with the set up and take down . . . and for improvising Handicapped Parking stands to display old news clippings.
A Celebration of 15 years (Continued from page 1)
Page 16
Thanks too, to Past President Gloria Clouse, for putting her ge-ometry skills to work as she cut and served the DuPont Forest cake. The cake, featuring a forest of trees with a river running through it, a couple of mountains, rocks and forest signage, served as a centerpiece for the refreshment table and proved to be as delicious as it was beautiful.
To close the program. Jeff Jennings, the first President of FODF, looked back on the formative days of the organiza-tion, and shared a couple sto-ries about events, ranging from the Offices of ECO in Hender-sonville to the halls of Raleigh, that brought us where we are today. Jeff was our first web-master, a position he again fills for FODF.
Each and every speaker who stepped up to the podium em-phasized the fact that, working together, we can accomplish great things.
Friends of DuPont are most grateful to Bob Twomey and Denver Beddingfield for their assistance in helping make the event a pleasure to work on, and to Lillian Birchfield for stepping up to be the official photographer of the Celebration. ‘Tis said “a pic-ture is worth a thousand words.” enjoy the thousands found on another page.
Walking to my car at the close of the afternoon, a little chip-munk scampered across my path and under the shed. I paused, thinking, what fun that it had shared the afternoon with us, and maybe, just maybe some of our crumbs.
Members of Friends of the Falls; from left to right: Seth Harrison, Jim Plick, Jeff
Jennings, Aleen Steinberg, Chuck McGrady, Ken Shelton, Lee and Lynn Kitts,
Bill Stricker, Dick Thompson, JoJo and Woody Keen, Bill Thomas; Missing
were Gwen Hill, Mary Jo Padgett, and Doug Coggins
A DuPont cake made for the celebration
The rangers who have worked with FODF since 2000 From left to right- Ed
Goforth, Jason Guidry, John Pearson, David Brown Bill Yarborough, Special Assistant to
the NC Commissioner of Agriculture
Steve Troxler
FODF Business Memberships
Deer Ridge Property Management Black Forest Family Camping Resort
Billy Harris Real Estate
Cedar Mountain Cafe Valley View Cabins
Shoal Creek LLC
McCrary Cabins
Looking Glass Realty LLC
Page 17
The Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center had an emergency generator installed that will provide electricity to the Visitor Center as well as the water supply system. The project was fund-ed by monies remaining from the construction of the ASC in 2013 and was managed primarily by WNC Communities, the non-profit founda-tion that was pivotal in the ASC’s completion.
The DSRF hosted Muddy Sneakers as they showcased their programming for NC Representative Chuck McGrady and State Superintendent of Schools June Atkinson.
DuPont State Recreational Forest Supervisor’s Report (Continued from page 15)
Representative Chuck McGrady
The DSRF participated in an on-site work-shop about hazard trees, led by a plant pathologist from the US Forest Service. The two day workshop focused on identifying failing trees that pose risks to Forest users.
December
The FODF and DSRF celebrated the 15-year mark of the opening of the approximately 2200 acres that are the “heart” of the Forest today. This portion of the property contains High Falls, the covered bridge, and Triple Falls.
Before I began this article, one of my goals was to identify the headwaters of the Little River. I thought I had succeeded when I dis-
covered the confluence of Steel Creek and the South Prong of the Little River (Figure 7). Since then, I have learned that there is no
strict definition for the term “headwaters” and that the terms “source” and “headwaters” are considered equivalent by many. The
Wikipedia article about headwaters states, “Most rivers have numerous tributaries and change names often; it is customary to regard
the longest tributary or stem as the source, regardless of what name that watercourse may carry on local maps and in local usage.”
With this in mind, I consider both Steel Creek and the South Prong of the Little River to be the headwaters/source of the Little River.
The author wishes to thank those landowners who granted me access to their private properties to acquire information and photo-
graphs for this article.
Where Does The Water Come From? Part 2 (Continued from page 5)
Friends of DuPont Forest
PO Box 2107
Brevard, NC 28712
Membership Get Involved
Friend (1 Year) $25 I would like to volunteer
Family (1 Year) $35 Trail Building & Work Crew
Partner (1 Year) $50 Adopt-a-Hwy Litter Pick-Up
Supporter (1 Year) $100 Special Events (Tour de Falls, Canoe Day, etc)
Hooker Falls Contributor (1 Year) $ 250 Special Forest Interest/Educational Programs
Triple Falls Contributor (1 Year) $ 500 Membership Services
High Falls Contributor (1 Year) $1000 Grant Writing
Forest Angel (1 Year) $1500 DuPont State Forest History Program
Additional Donation $___________________ (Donations are tax deductible)
Fundraising Efforts
Save the stamps. E-mail my newsletter to the address listed below Other ___________________________________________
Name ______________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________
(Please print clearly)
City ________________________________________________ State___________ ZIP_______________________________________
Phone (_______)_____________________________________ E-mail ____________________________________________________
Mail this form to: Friends of DuPont Forest ~ P.O. Box 2107 ~ Brevard, NC 28712
Bev Parlier, President
Helen Lee, Vice President
Rella Allred, Secretary
Dick Thompson, Treasurer
Dan Bresnahan
Jerry Brown
Lyle Burgmann
Dick Childs
Nancy Kay
Eddie Leach
Valerie Naylor
Jim Plick
Cathy Reiff
Aleen Steinberg
Terri Wallace
FODF Board of Directors
EC
Friends of DuPont Forest (FODF) is a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the public’s enjoyment of the Forest while protecting its natural and historic resources.
