When: October 14, 2023 @ 10:00 am
Come Meander with us to explore the lands, waters, and cultural resources that Mainspring Conservation Trust protects.
On the second Saturday of every month, Conservation Outreach Associate Skye Cahoon will lead you on a Meander through the rich floodplains, lush forests, picturesque meadows, and vibrant mountains that make this region so special. Together we will learn about and appreciate the natural world around us, taking time to notice both the tiny and the mighty creatures that call these places home.
This month, we are Meandering to Welch Farm in Andrews. We will stroll along the Valley River on this gentle 1.5 mile walk, passing picturesque cornfields, native river cane stands, and a unique oxbow habitat- the only one of its kind in the valley! Among the fall foliage and flowers, we’ll discuss the story of Cherokee and European settlement and agriculture on this property, considering both cultivated and native resources. These trails are flat and generally free of roots and rocks, but may be a bit muddy depending on the weather. This Meander should take 2-3 hours.
We will meet at the parking lot of Welch Farm in Andrews- just past the intersection of Marble Plant Rd and Andrew Jackson Highway (Rt 129)- at 10am on Saturday, October 14th. This event is free and open to the public, and registration is not required to attend. Please email Skye with any questions, and keep an eye on this page and our social media for any scheduling updates. We look forward to Meandering with you!
2023 Mainspring Meanders Schedule:
April 8th: Pinnacle Park, Sylva
May 13th: Queen Branch Preserve, Franklin
June 10th: Salt Rock Gap, Panthertown Valley, Cashiers
July 8th: Yellow Creek Falls, Robbinsville
August 12th: Gibson Bottoms Preserve, Franklin
September 9th: Tessentee Bottomland Preserve, Franklin
October 14th: Welch Farm, Andrews
November 11th: Piney Knob Trails, Murphy
