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Thursday, May 31, 2018

NCDOT Crews Work to Reopen More Than 50 Roads
Storms damage roads, shoulders, bridges, culverts, pipes



Pilot Ridge Road in Avery County suffered severe storm damage more than a week ago.

PRESS RELEASE

NC Dept of Transportation
Asheville, NC
May 31, 2018


ASHEVILLE – More than 50 roads across western North Carolina remain closed as a result of heavy rain from Alberto during the last few days.
Some areas of the mountains have received more than 20 inches of rain this month, which has swelled rivers over their banks, washed out roads and bridges, and started landslides of various sizes.

State transportation officials are urging drivers to stay away from flooded roads and be especially cautious when driving in the mountains where the potential for landslides and road washouts continues.

Road conditions will change throughout the day. Some roads may reopen after water recedes or small slides are cleared. It’s also possible for road conditions to deteriorate and other roads to be closed.

N.C. Department of Transportation crews from Cherokee County to Surry County have been responding to incidents at all hours of the day.

Crews near the Buncombe-McDowell County line have been working to clear a slide that closed Interstate 40 near Mile Marker 66 at 10 p.m. on Tuesday night. All but one westbound lane is open, and officials expect to open that last lane late Friday or early Saturday.

Employees are assessing damage, removing debris, cleaning ditches, clearing pipes and performing tasks essential to getting the roads open. Right now, the primary focus is getting roads open and safe for all drivers. Crews will return later to perform finishing touches on the roads, ditches and bridges.

As of Thursday morning, more than 50 roads in 12 different counties are closed. The highways with a closure include U.S. 221 in Avery County, U.S. 221 in Burke County near N.C. 183, the northbound lane of N.C. 80 in McDowell County, a section of U.S. 70 in McDowell County and U.S. 64/74A just north of Chimney Rock. All other closures — due to high water, slides or washouts — are on secondary roads.

The following includes a list of other closed highways and some secondary rounds by county. 

AVERY COUNTY
U.S. 221
Pilot Ridge Road

McDOWELL COUNTY
I-40 West: Outside lane closed
N.C. 80: Northbound lane closed

RUTHERFORD COUNTY
U.S. 64/74A

POLK COUNTY
U.S. 176: Between Harmon Field Road and Ozone Drive
Abrams & Moore Road
John Watson Road
Holberts Cove Road
Howard Gap Road
Green Rive Cove Road
Coxe Road

HENDERSON COUNTY
Howard Gap Road
River Road
Butler Bridge Road
Hooper Lane
Balfour Road
Nix Road
Brookside Camp Road
Middle Fork Road
Ledbetter Road
New Hope Road

TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
Island Ford Road
Barclay Road
Davidson River Road
Cascade Lake Road
Wilson Road
Green Road
Hart Road
Merrill Lane

JACKSON COUNTY
Norton Road
Old Settlement Road
South River Road

SWAIN COUNTY
Old River Road

MACON COUNTY
River Road
Wayah Road
Junaluska Road
Carnes Road
Needmore Road
South Tryphosa Road

CLAY COUNTY
Lance Cove Road


For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on Twitter.

-------------------------------


WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.


Published at 12:18 pm on 05-31-2018

Daily Weather Briefing for Thursday, May 31, 2018




LOCAL NEWS

The last week or so of rain culminated in minor flooding in Macon County and more significant flooding elsewhere in the state to our east. Governor Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency. [LINK


Here is a list of roads that were closed in Macon County per the NCDOT TIMS website: [click on the road name to view more information]

Wayah Rd (SR-1310 ) North West of Franklin / Both Directions
Needmore Rd (SR-1364 ) North of Franklin / Both Directions
Carnes Rd (SR-1370 ) North of Franklin / Both Directions
Junaluska Rd (SR-1401 ) North West of Franklin / Both Directions
Riverside Rd (SR-1644 ) South of Franklin / Both Directions
South Tryphosa Rd (SR-1683 ) South of Franklin / Both Directions


A lot of material was posted on social media about the impacts of the storm. A few examples are posted below and at [LINK].

Video from Macon County 911 of the Nantahala River:



A few photos from MaconQuad of the frequently submerged Arthur Drake Road:



MaconQuad also posted some photos of Cullasaja Falls on Facebook [LINK]

And, here are a few graphics showing some basic statistics regarding rainfall amounts and river height measured at various locations:

Gauges:

Cartoogechaye Creek Near Franklin



Little Tennessee River at Riverside



Little Tennessee River near Iotla Bridge



Rainfall totals from May 24 to May 30



LOCAL OUTLOOK

A moist airmass will then persist today into Friday, with a few waves of thunderstorms arriving from the west. Slightly drier air will mix in from the west over the weekend, but moisture may return by late weekend or early next week.

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

Weather Almanac for May 31st (1872-2016)
Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 90°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 2011
Lowest Temperature 31°F in Franklin in 1984
Greatest Rainfall 2.35 inches in Highlands in 1959

Record Weather Events for May (1872-2017)

Highest Temperature 92°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on May 20, 1996
Lowest Temperature 23°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on May 2, 1963
Greatest Rainfall 4.2 inches in Highlands on May 23, 1923
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 2.5 inches in Highlands on May 7, 1992

THREE DAY OUTLOOK

The images below represent the daily forecast at 8 am for today, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. Click on any of them to enlarge.



----------------------------------
FRANKLIN AREA

TODAY

A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 9am. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming west southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

TONIGHT

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 7pm. Patchy fog after 1am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Patchy fog before 7am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming west northwest 5 to 7 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY NIGHT

A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. West wind 3 to 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

SATURDAY

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 83.

SATURDAY NIGHT

Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

-----------------------------------------
OTTO AREA

TODAY

A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 9am. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

TONIGHT

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 7pm. Patchy fog after 1am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2pm. Patchy fog before 7am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 83. West wind 3 to 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Showers and thunderstorms likely before midnight, then a chance of showers between midnight and 5am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Northwest wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

SATURDAY

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84.

SATURDAY NIGHT

Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

---------------------------------------------
HIGHLANDS AREA

TODAY

A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 9am. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 75. West wind 5 to 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

TONIGHT

A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. West northwest wind around 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 75. West wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Showers and thunderstorms likely before 11pm, then a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. West northwest wind 8 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

SATURDAY

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.

SATURDAY NIGHT

Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

--------------------------------------------
NANTAHALA AREA

TODAY

A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 8am. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 80. West southwest wind 3 to 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

TONIGHT

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog after 1am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. West wind around 5 mph becoming light and variable in the evening. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

FRIDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79. West wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Showers and thunderstorms likely before 11pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 11pm and midnight, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. West wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

SATURDAY

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.

SATURDAY NIGHT

Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

----------------------------------------


GOES-16 GeoColor - True Color daytime, multispectral IR
12:02 am to 2:57 am this morning


HAZARDS

Showers and thunderstorms are expected today, some of which may include brief periods of heavy rain. If we get more than an inch or so in short order, river levels may rise again for minor flooding.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that is effective until tomorrow and it has been posted below for your convenience.

Flood Watch
Flood Watch
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
1139 PM EDT Wed May 30 2018

...THE THREAT OF HEAVY RAINFALL AND FLASH FLOODING ACROSS THE MOUNTAINS AND FOOTHILLS OF THE WESTERN CAROLINAS AND NORTHEAST GEORGIA THROUGH THURSDAY MORNING...

.Tropical moisture will continue to stream into the Southeast, bringing showers and embedded thunderstorms with increased rainfall rates through Thursday morning. The resulting heavy rainfall will potentially impact many locations that are already saturated from heavy rain that fell over the past two weeks. This will continue to greatly heighten the risk of flash flooding and main stem river flooding throughout the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia, as well as landslides along the steeper slopes of the mountains and adjacent foothills.

...FLASH FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM EDT THURSDAY...

The Flash Flood Watch continues

* until 8 AM EDT Thursday

* Rainfall totals of 3 to 7 inches have fallen across much of the eastern and southern escarpment and adjacent foothills since Tuesday morning. Isolated to scattered showers and a few thunderstorms could produce up to 1 inch of additional rainfall through Thursday morning. Due to the saturated ground, it will only take around a half inch of rain to produce new flash flooding, or to exacerbate any ongoing flooding across the Blue Ridge areas.

* Flash flooding of streams and creeks may develop very quickly under these circumstances. Landslides will be quite possible, especially in mountainous terrain known to be prone to landslides, and even along some steep slopes where landslides have not occurred for many years. The saturated ground will also result in at least scattered tree falls. Main stem river flooding will continue along the French Broad River, and will likely develop along the Broad River as well. Elevated stream levels will continue, and minor flooding may develop along the Little Tennessee River and its tributaries.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. Make plans now to avoid travel during the peak of the heavy rainfall. Also have plans on where to flee to higher ground if flash flooding affects your location.

Rainfall of more than five inches in similar storms has been associated with an increased risk of landslides and rockslides. If you live on a mountainside or in a cove at the base of a mountain, especially near a stream, be ready to leave in advance of the storm or as quickly as possible should rising water, moving earth, or rocks threaten. Consider postponing travel on mountain roads during the period of heavy rainfall today through Wednesday.

You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.

Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



2:52 am this morning

TROPICAL OUTLOOK

The remnants of Subtropical Storm ALBERTO are making their way northward through Tennessee and Kentucky. The National Hurricane Center has ended coverage of the storm.

The latest Tropical Weather Discussion issued by the National Hurricane Center is posted below for your convenience.

IMAGE HERE

Tropical Weather Discussion
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
205 AM EDT Thu May 31 2018

Tropical Weather Discussion for North America, Central America Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, northern sections of South America, and Atlantic Ocean to the African coast from the Equator to 32N. The following information is based on satellite imagery, weather observations, radar and meteorological analysis.

Based on 0000 UTC surface analysis and satellite imagery through 0515 UTC.

...TROPICAL WAVES...

A tropical wave moving W off the coast of W Africa at 15 kt is along 20W S of 13N. The wave is well depicted on SSMI TPW imagery. Dry Saharan air is keeping the area free of convection.

A tropical wave is along 54W S of 12N moving W at 15 kt. The wave shows up well on SSMI total precipitable water imagery. Isolated moderate convection is south of 08N within 120 nm west of the wave axis.

...MONSOON TROUGH/ITCZ...

The monsoon trough extends from the coast of Africa near 10N14W to 07N19W. The ITCZ continues west of the tropical wave along 20W from 07N21W to 02N32W to the coast of South America near 02N50W. Scattered moderate isolated strong convection is from the equator to 04N between 28W and 36W.

...DISCUSSION...

GULF OF MEXICO...

Fair weather prevails across the the basin tonight, as isolated showers in the eastern Gulf have dissipated during the past 6-8 hours. Winds are from the SE at 10-20 kt, and seas are 2-4 ft.

A large upper level high is centered over southern Mexico near 21N103W, producing northerly upper level flow over the western Gulf. A sharp upper level trough is over the E Gulf with axis along 88W.

A surface trough is expected to form over the Yucatan peninsula each evening then drift over the southwest Gulf during the night through Sun. Elsewhere, surface ridging across the northern Gulf will maintain gentle to moderate SE winds through the weekend.

CARIBBEAN SEA...

Isolated showers over western Cuba will persist during the next 6 to 12 hours. Localized flooding of low-lying areas may occur overnight, with conditions expected to continue to improve Thu.

Isolated moderate convection is in the NW Caribbean west of 81W. 5-15 kt southerly winds prevail across the western Caribbean, and 15-20 kt trade winds are over the central and eastern Caribbean E of 80W. An upper level trough remains over the E Caribbean with strong subsidence.

High pressure in the central Atlantic will maintain fresh to strong trade winds over the S central Caribbean with moderate to fresh trades elsewhere during the next several days. Fresh E to SE winds are likely in the Gulf of Honduras through Fri.

ATLANTIC OCEAN...

A discontinuous frontal boundary is analyzed N of 30N between 50W and 70W. Scattered moderate showers are north of 28N between 49W and 68W. A broad ridge across the east-central Atlantic is anchored by a 1023 mb high centered near 31N29W, and extends westward along 28N-29N to a 1020 mb high pressure NE of the Bahamas near 28N70W.

The frontal boundary will sag southward overnight as a weak cold front, and extend from 32N50W to 28N56W to 28N65N by Thursday afternoon. A stationary front will extend from 28N65W to 32N68W. The cold front will shift eastward into the central Atlantic to extend from 32N41W to 27N50W to 26N60W on Friday, then stall and dissipate along 26N Friday night.

MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.

FRANKLIN BIRD CLUB JUNE MEETING

Monday, June 11
Topic: “You Better Watch Out, Chimney Swifts Are Coming to Town”
Presented by: Tom Tribble
Location: Macon County Public Library at 7:00 pm

Watching migrating Chimney Swifts enter a roosting site by the thousands is a spectacle that everyone, not just birders, should witness. For over 100 years, Audubon has focused on making the world a better place for birds – Protect Birds and You Protect the Earth. The Chimney Swift is Audubon North Carolina’s 2016 Bird of the Year, recognized as a focal species, one that helps us understand the opportunities for meaningful conservation action. The Chimney Swift is a familiar sight in the sky over towns and cities, constantly twittering and changing direction as it hunts for insects on the wing, yet rarely recognized. Learn more about this fascinating bird, almost always around where people live but little known.

Tom Tribble is President of Elisha Mitchell Audubon Society, the Audubon chapter that covers Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and several adjacent counties. Tom has been an Audubon member and avid birder for more than 40 years. He worked for 30 years at the NC Center for Geographic Information & Analysis, the State’s Geographic Information System, retiring in 2013. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a Master’s degree from Duke University.

Uptown Gallery classes
(These are on-going classes – repeat weekly)

Free classes and open studio times are being offered at The Uptown Gallery in Franklin. Join others at a painting open studio session every Tuesday from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm or on Thursday from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Bring your own materials and join an on-going drawing course led by gallery artists on Fridays, from 11am – 2 pm. For information on days open, hours and additional art classes and workshops, contact the gallery on 30 East Main Street at (828) 349 – 4607.

National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South


Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon

Sun

Begin civil twilight 5:51 a.m.
Sunrise 6:21 a.m.
Sun transit 1:31 p.m.
Sunset 8:42 p.m.
End civil twilight 9:11 p.m.


Moon

Moonrise 9:43 p.m. last night
Moon transit 2:53 a.m.
Moonset 8:02 a.m.
Moonrise 10:34 p.m.


Phase of the Moon on May 31, 2018: Waning Gibbous with 96% of the Moon's visible disk illuminated.
Closest Primary Moon Phase: Full Moon on May 29, 2018 at 10:19 a.m. (local daylight time)

Sky Guides for this week


Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

Learn more about becoming a patron of Macon Media at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Published at 4:20 am on May 31, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety


Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, National Hurricane Center, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Governor to Declare State of Emergency for Western Counties as Mudslides Close Roads, Prompt Evacuations in Several Communities




PRESS RELEASE
Raleigh, NC
May 30, 2018


Governor Roy Cooper will declare a State of Emergency for western North Carolina after heavy rains overnight prompted mudslides in multiple communities, closed portions of I-40 east of Asheville and triggered evacuations of Old Fort and a community near Lake Tahoma in McDowell County.

"Our emergency response and transportation crews have been working through the night to keep North Carolinians safe as conditions deteriorate," Governor Cooper said. "But this storm isn't yet over. I'm urging people to keep a close eye on forecasts and flood watches, and asking drivers to use caution especially when travelling in our western counties."

The State of Emergency will help the state coordinate storm response and prepare for any additional impacts. The Governor will also issue a transportation waiver to expedite the movement of utility vehicles and others engaged in relief efforts.

Within the last 24 hours, four to seven inches of rain fell across portions of the mountains adding to the already heavily saturated ground. Areas along the Blue Ridge have received 10-20” of rain since May 15th, making conditions favorable for downed trees and mudslides.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue for the next several days, continuing the threat of flash flooding across the mountains. Primary concerns right now are the stability of mountain slopes and several dams. Mudslides have occurred in numerous areas. Local and state officials are closely monitoring the dams at Lake Lure, Lake Tahoma, Lake Tuxedo and North Fork Lake and are sending state dam safety engineers to areas of concern.

State and local officials are keeping a close watch on rivers across western NC, where several rivers are currently experiencing minor flooding and the French Broad River at Blantyre is forecast to experience moderate flooding later today. Additionally, there are several rivers across eastern NC that are near or forecast to be near Minor Flood Stage over the coming days.

Local officials last night ordered a mandatory evacuation of downtown Old Fort due to extensive flooding and of the area below the Lake Tahoma Dam. A voluntary evacuation for Chimney Rock was also requested. A licensed care facility and mobile home parks in Buncombe also were evacuated. An engineer inspected the Tahoma dam this morning and local officials cancelled the evacuation order around 10:30 a.m.

Overnight the state deployed more than 50 search and rescue technicians. A combination of swift water rescue and urban search and rescue teams from Greensboro, Mooresville and Charlotte are being sent to McDowell, Rutherford and Jackson counties to help with any potential rescues.

More than 200 people have sought refuge in one of six shelters. Most of the evacuees are staying in one of three shelters open in McDowell County; other shelters are open in Buncombe, Polk and Rutherford counties More than 6,500 power outages were reported across western counties, mostly in Henderson, McDowell Cleveland, Buncombe, Swain and Transylvania.

State transportation officials have closed roads in Avery, Buncombe, McDowell, Watauga, Henderson, Rutherford, Macon, Polk, Mitchell, Transylvania, Gaston, Catawba and Iredell counties.

At the Buncombe-McDowell County line, two westbound lanes and one eastbound lane of Interstate 40 near Mile Marker 67 were closed by a mudslide. Five vehicles were caught in the mud but no injuries were reported. Transportation crews worked through the night to clear debris from the road. By 2 a.m., crews restored two lanes in the eastbound direction and one lane in the westbound direction.

In McDowell County, two NCDOT workers were rescued after the tandem dump truck they were using to help clear a mud slide was pushed off a road by another slide and into the Catawba River. They climbed out through a passenger window and stood on the side of the truck in the water until emergency crews got them to safety.

For the latest information, follow @NCEmergency Management on Twitter and Facebook. Information is also available at ReadyNC.org and at the ReadyNC mobile app which can be downloaded for free.


Open Thread for Road Reports and Weather Conditions

Here is a map showing an estimate of how much rain has fallen since May27th. It is probably not 100% accurate but can serve to show the relative amounts of rainfall that has happened in the last 72 hours or so.



Macon Media has established an open thread for members of the community to share road condition reports and other information. It is also a place where people can ask if certain roads are open or closed.







WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.


CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

Learn more about becoming a patron of Macon Media at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Published at 10:30 am on May 30, 2018

Daily Weather Briefing for Wednesday, May 30, 2018




LOCAL OUTLOOK

Deep tropical moisture will persist over the area through today as the remnants of Alberto move northward from Alabama to Kentucky and eventually to the Great Lakes. A moist airmass will persist into Friday before southerly flow shifts more to the west. Slightly drier air will mix in from the west over the weekend.

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

Flood Advisory
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
1259 AM EDT WED MAY 30 2018



The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has extended the

* Flood Advisory for...
Central Macon County in western North Carolina...

* Until 715 AM EDT Wednesday.

* At 1257 AM EDT, the river gauge along the Little Tennessee River north of Franklin was reading 7.56 feet. At 7.5 feet, water approaches the Highway 28 bridge near the gauge site. The river will only slowly fall overnight keeping flood waters in place.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.

Heavy rain falling along mountain creeks can cause sudden increases in water flow downstream, even in areas where it is not raining. People participating in outdoor recreation should move away from creeks and small streams.

Please report flood water flowing over roads or threatening property, or landslides to the National Weather Service by calling toll free, 1, 800, 2 6 7, 8 1 0 1, or by posting on our Facebook page, or Tweet it using hashtag nwsgsp. your message should describe the event and the specific location where it occurred.

Weather Almanac for May 30th (1872-2016)
Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 90°F in Franklin in 1953
Lowest Temperature 34°F in Highlands in 1984
Greatest Rainfall 1.40 inches in Highlands in 1903

Record Weather Events for May (1872-2017)

Highest Temperature 92°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on May 20, 1996
Lowest Temperature 23°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on May 2, 1963
Greatest Rainfall 4.2 inches in Highlands on May 23, 1923
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 2.5 inches in Highlands on May 7, 1992

THREE DAY OUTLOOK

The images below represent the daily forecast at 8 am for today, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. Click on any of them to enlarge.



----------------------------------
FRANKLIN AREA

TODAY

Showers likely, with thunderstorms also possible after noon. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 77. South wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

TONIGHT

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 2am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2am. Patchy fog after midnight. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

THURSDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 9am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming southwest around 6 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

THURSDAY NIGHT

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Light southwest wind.

FRIDAY

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 83.

FRIDAY NIGHT

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

-----------------------------------------
OTTO AREA

TODAY

Showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 8am. Patchy fog before 10am. High near 76. South wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

TONIGHT

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 5am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5am. Patchy fog after 10pm. Otherwise, cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind 3 to 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

THURSDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 9am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 81. Calm wind becoming southwest around 6 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

THURSDAY NIGHT

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Calm wind.

FRIDAY

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 84.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

---------------------------------------------
HIGHLANDS AREA

TODAY

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Areas of fog before 3pm. High near 69. South wind around 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible.

TONIGHT

Showers and thunderstorms likely before 1am, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Patchy fog after 8pm. Otherwise, cloudy, with a low around 62. South wind 6 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

THURSDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 9am. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 73. Southwest wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

THURSDAY NIGHT

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. West southwest wind around 6 mph.

FRIDAY

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 76.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.

--------------------------------------------
NANTAHALA AREA

TODAY

Showers likely, with thunderstorms also possible after 10am. Patchy fog before noon. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 73. South southwest wind around 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

TONIGHT

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Patchy fog after 10pm. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. South wind 6 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

THURSDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 9am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Southwest wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

THURSDAY NIGHT

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. West southwest wind around 5 mph.

FRIDAY

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 77. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

FRIDAY NIGHT

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.

----------------------------------------


GOES-16 GeoColor - True Color daytime, multispectral IR
Ground-based RADAR Loop (GOES-16 images are currently unavailable)
1:43 am to 3:56 am this morning


HAZARDS

A period of extended rain is expected through Thursday. Flooding may be possible. A Flood Watch is in effect through Thursday morning. A Flood Advisory is in effect until 7:15 am this morning for Macon County along the banks of the Little Tennessee River north of Franklin. A copy of the flood advisory has been posted after the Local Outlook segment at this top of this article.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook regarding the developing situation and it has been posted below for your convenience.

NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook

..TODAY...Heavy rain with flooding possible.
..THURSDAY...Heavy rain with flooding possible.
..FRIDAY...No hazardous weather is expected at this time.
..SATURDAY...No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



GOES 16 - Band 15 - 12.3 µm - Dirty Longwave Window - IR (Precipitation)
Ground-based RADAR Mosaic (GOES-16 images currently unavailable)
4:05 am this morning

TROPICAL OUTLOOK

The remnants of Subtropical Storm ALBERTO are making their way northward through Tennessee and Kentucky. The National Hurricane Center has ended coverage of the storm.

The latest Tropical Weather Discussion issued by the National Hurricane Center is posted below for your convenience.



Rainfall Forecast Due to Remnants of ALBERTO



Tropical Weather Discussion
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
205 AM EDT Wed May 30 2018

Tropical Weather Discussion for North America, Central America Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, northern sections of South America, and Atlantic Ocean to the African coast from the Equator to 32N. The following information is based on satellite imagery, weather observations, radar and meteorological analysis.

Based on 0000 UTC surface analysis and satellite imagery through 0545 UTC.

...SPECIAL FEATURES...

Scattered moderate showers continue over central and western Cuba. Although rainfall totals are lower than observed during the previous 3-4 days, any additional rain will contribute to current flooding conditions. Widespread flooding of low-lying areas and the potential for landslides in rugged terrain will remain a serious threat in western Cuba through this afternoon.

...TROPICAL WAVES...

A tropical wave is along 49W S of 13N moving W at 15 kt. The wave shows up well on SSMI total precipitable water imagery. Isolated moderate convection is within 150 nm of the wave axis.

...MONSOON TROUGH/ITCZ...

The monsoon trough extends from the coast of Africa near 10N14W to 07N19W. The ITCZ continues from 07N19W to 01N31W to 01N49W. Scattered moderate convection is along the ITCZ axis W of 22W.

...DISCUSSION...

GULF OF MEXICO...

Scattered moderate convection remains over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico from convergence into the circulation of what is left of Alberto in Tennessee near 35.6N 87.5W. Winds and seas in the NE Gulf of Mexico will continue to diminish today as the low moves further inland. The western Gulf has mostly clear skies. A broad ridge along 28N is expected to maintain generally fair weather through Friday across the region.

CARIBBEAN SEA...

Scattered moderate convection is just south of Cuba between 82W-85W. Elsewhere, isolated moderate convection is over Central America from Nicaragua to Panama. 5-15 kt southerly winds are over the W Caribbean, and 15-20 kt trade winds are over the central and E Caribbean E of 80W.

Strong subsidence associated with an upper level trough is evident from water vapor imagery in the eastern Caribbean E of 73W. High pressure in the central Atlantic will maintain fresh to strong trade winds over the S central Caribbean with moderate to fresh trades elsewhere. Fresh E to SE winds are possible over the Gulf of Honduras by late Thu between the high pressure and troughing west of the area.

ATLANTIC OCEAN...

Isolated showers between the Bahamas and Cuba. A broad surface ridge across the east-central Atlantic is anchored by a 1026 mb high centered near 30N38W and a 1027 mb high near 33N22W. Moderate trade winds are expected south of the ridge the next several days. A cold front will reach near 30N in the central Atlantic Thursday. The trailing portion of the front will move east Friday, with isolated convection.

MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.

Uptown Gallery classes
(These are on-going classes – repeat weekly)

Free classes and open studio times are being offered at The Uptown Gallery in Franklin. Join others at a painting open studio session every Tuesday from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm or on Thursday from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
.
Bring your own materials and join an on-going drawing course led by gallery artists on Fridays, from 11am – 2 pm. For information on days open, hours and additional art classes and workshops, contact the gallery on 30 East Main Street at (828) 349 – 4607.




National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South

Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon

Segment postponed for today due to time constraints

Sky Guides for this week


Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

Learn more about becoming a patron of Macon Media at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Published at 4:10 am on May 30, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety


Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, National Hurricane Center, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Press Release: Here We Go with Mike & Dooley Segments Will Appear on WATC-TV

PRESS RELEASE 
Mike & Dooley
Highlands, NC
May 29, 2018




Highlands, NC : Today, Mike & Dooley, a local show filmed in and around Highlands, NC, in partnership with Backlot Cinemas located in Franklin, NC, has announced that they have recently come to an agreement with WATC channel 57 out of Atlanta, GA to produce and air daily segments of their “Here We Go with Mike & Dooley” show.

The two minute segments will air daily on WATC in the mornings as well as throughout the day as needed. The goal of the show will be to provide inspirational and uplifting messages so that viewers can start their days off with positive thoughts. WATC has been broadcasting their shows focusing on family, Christian, and educational programming for over 22 years. They are located in Atlanta (the 10th largest television market in the U.S.) and their programs can be seen on Roku, the WATC app, and online at www.watc.tv in addition to airing in over one million cable and satellite homes.

With regards to the opportunity to help promote daily positive thinking on a national basis, co-hosts Mike Carrier and Jeremy Dooley said, “We started our Mike & Dooley in the Morning show to help promote local news and events. Now we have the opportunity to reach a large audience with positive messages. The whole thing seems somewhat surreal and a little crazy but as the doors seem to keep opening for us we keep walking through them!”

Mike & Dooley are also excited to have the opportunity to work with Backlot Cinemas on this project. Backlot Cinemas is owned by Phil and Josh Drake and run and managed by Ben Walker. On their partnership Mike said, “Backlot has a beautiful studio and state of the art equipment and Ben and his team do incredible work. We’re really looking forward to working with them on something that we all feel is important and needed in today’s media.”


About Mike & Dooley in the Morning: Mike & Dooley is a local and national show that is taped in Highlands, NC and Macon County, NC and aired throughout the country via www.MikeandDooley.com, their social media outlets, and seen locally on Highlands Cable Group channel 14.







Weather Predication Center Advises Heavy Rain May be Possible This Afternoon and Early Evening



The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Mesoscale Precipitation Discussion concerning the potential for heavy rain between now and 8 pm tonight in our region. Some of these storms that develop may be capable of producing 1-2 inches per hour with isolated situations where 3 inches per hour of rainfall may be possible.


Please be careful if you're out dring when one of these storms comes through our area. Remember to turn on your headlights so other motorists can see, especially if you're in one of those cars that are colored so it is hard to see. 
Also, slow down and increase your following distance from the motorists in front of you so you have more time to react if they hydroplane or get involved in an accident.


If you encounter a roadway that is covered in water, please avoid driving on it because it may have been washed away. Remeber to "Turn Around, Don't Drown."









WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.


A copy of the discussion is posted below for your convenience.




Mesoscale Precipitation Discussion 0225
NWS Weather Prediction Center College Ppark MD
227 pm edt tue may 29 2018

Areas affected......Northeast GA/western SC/western NC...

Concerning...Heavy rainfall...Flash flooding possible

Valid 291830z - 300030z

Summary...Heavy showers and a few thunderstorms expected this Afternoon with high rain rates of 1-2 inches per hour over a short Duration...

The satellite and radar data indicates a slowly growing cluster of Showers and a few thunderstorms across Georgia and interior Sections of South and North Carolina.

Moist deep layer southeast flow is advecting deep moisture inland With upslope flow occurring this afternoon into the evening as the Cyclonic circulation of the depression to the west in Alabama Continues.

Coupled upper divergence and boundary layer moisture convergence Combine with an upslope component of flow to support additional Showers/storms through the rest of afternoon into the evening in Northeast ga/western South Carolina and western North Carolina.
Observed and forecast soundings show pockets of 90 percent layer Relative humidity...Favoring efficient rainfall processes.

Clusters of 1-2 inches of rain with isolated 3 inch maxima are Expected where cell mergers occur. This is in line with the 12z Runs of the wrf arw/nmmb/arw 2 runs today.
The 15-17 high res rapid refresh runs indicated isolated 4-inch Totals are possible in western North Carolina.





CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

Learn more about becoming a patron of Macon Media at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Published at 3:05 pm on May 29, 2018




U.S. Forest Service Announces Ginseng Permit Lottery for 2018

PRESS RELEASE
National Forests in North Carolina
160A Zillicoa St.
Asheville, N.C. 28801 


Ginseng, aka Panax quinquefolius Image Source: Wikimedia Commons



Asheville, NC, May 29, 2018 The Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests announced today that this year's ginseng harvest permits will be determined again by lottery with an application period from June 4 to July 20.

A permit is required to collect wild ginseng in the two national forests during the designated harvest season. Those seeking a permit must call or visit a ranger district office and submit their name and address for the lottery between June 4 and July 20. Requests by email will not be accepted. Written notification will be mailed to successful applicants selected by lottery before August 17. District offices will start issuing permits to selected applicants August 27 with an effective date of September 1.

Wild ginseng plants on the national forest are sustainably managed by the U.S.  Forest Service to meet the needs of present and future generations. In 2013, due to concern over reductions in wild ginseng numbers, the Forest Service implemented changes to wild ginseng harvests on the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests to conserve wild ginseng populations. These policies remain in place including: 
  • The number of permits issued is limited to 136 annual permits, a 75 percent reduction from historical permit issuances.
  • Permits are issued through a lottery system (selected randomly) by each district office. Individuals may submit their names at more than one district office.
  • A permit allows a person to harvest 1-3 wet pounds (at $40 per pound) of wild ginseng in the ranger district where the permit is issued.
  • The permitted harvest season is 2 weeks. Harvesting will be allowed September 1 through September 15, 2018.
  • Each District Ranger may further limit ginseng harvests to certain areas of the national forest to allow the plants to regenerate or to protect designated wilderness and other natural areas. Harvest area descriptions and maps will be provided to permit recipients.
  • Harvest is prohibited in designated wilderness and other natural areas set aside for research purposes, such as Walker Cove and Black Mountain.
In addition to reducing the legal harvest of wild ginseng, the Forest Service has increased law enforcement efforts to reduce poaching. Removing a wild ginseng plant or its parts from national forests without a permit or outside of the legal harvest season is considered theft of public property. Penalties for plant poaching may include a fine up to $5,000 or 6-month sentence in federal prison, or both.

Ginseng root has been favored as a tonic primarily in East Asia for the past two-and-a-half centuries. In North Carolina, ginseng is more common in the mountains, very infrequent in the piedmont, and very rare in the coastal plain.

Ranger District contact information may be found at the National Forests in North Carolina website, www.fs.usda.gov/main/nfsnc/about-forest/districts.  
For more information about harvesting ginseng in Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests, see https://go.usa.gov/xQdwt.


Follow the National Forests in North Carolina on Facebook (www.facebook.com/nfsnc) or Twitter (twitter.com/NFsNCarolina) for more news and features.
CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

Learn more about becoming a patron of Macon Media at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Published at 2:02 pm on May 29, 2018