HELP PROTECT WILSON CREEK
A FEDERALLY DESIGNATED WILD AND SCENIC RIVER!
Wilson Creek, which flows 23 miles from Grandfather Mountain to the Johns River in Caldwell County, is one of only 4 rivers in NC designated as National ‘Wild and Scenic’. Wilson Creek is also designated as an “Outstanding Resource Water” by the NC Department of Environment & Natural Resources, the state’s highest water quality classification. It is one of the most pristine bodies of waters in NC and is a popular destination for anglers and paddlers.
However: On Monday August 6 the Caldwell County Planning Board passed a zoning request by a Florida developer – The Archer Group - which would allow the development of nearly 650 acres along Wilson Creek. This tract includes both sides of the creek and roughly lies between the confluence of Lost Cove Creek to the north downstream to the confluence of Harpers Creek to the south. The Brown Mountain Beach Rd, and the Edgemont Rd., both state maintained roads, follow the creek through this property for approximately 4.5 road miles as they parallel Wilson Creek.
The developer has requested to build two bridges spanning the creek (note: no development has occurred along Wilson Creek since the 1900’s mainly due to frequent severe flooding and washing out of bridges) and multiple road accesses to the development.
Even though a 1-year development moratorium put in place by the Caldwell County Commissioners, the Planning Board, by a 5-4 vote approved this request.
Wildlife Impacts
This development could have disastrous effects upon the Wilson Creek watershed with regard to cold water fisheries, wildlife habitat, and overall water quality. There will be a huge increase of sediment loading of the water due to road and lot clearing. Loss of vegetative cover will inevitably cause more run-off into the aquatic resource! In addition, implications of the proposed development, including septic tanks, public access, and having a homeowners association “managing” more than 4 miles of a Wild and Scenic river presents serious ecological concerns. This news is terrible for the downstream fishery as well as the beauty of a normally crystal clear body of water.
Wilson Creek was designated a National Wild and Scenic River seven years ago. In the history of Wild and Scenic Rivers there has never been development of this magnitude allowed after being so designated.
What can be done: The good news is that the developer must take this request before an open public hearing on Monday August 27 at 6pm. At this hearing the county commissioners will decide the fate of this ill-conceived development. If you have ever fished, paddled, hiked or birded in this area, and you care anything about the future of Wilson Creek, please attend the meeting and voice your opposition to the proposal.
Ask the County Commissioners to:
- Slow the planning process and take the appropriate time to plan for the adequate protection of Wilson Creek
- Reject the development proposal and allow adequate planning
Tell them:
- A lot of hard work went into getting Wilson Creek, a national treasure, designated as a Wild and Scenic River, and;
- You value and travel to their county to enjoy the eco-tourism that Wilson Creek offers.
Public Hearing: August 27 at 6pm – 905 West Avenue NW, Lenoir, NC - in the basement level of the Caldwell County offices. If you cannot attend the meeting, please email and call the Commissioners:
Contact Info:Caldwell County Commissioners: Contact phone number (828) 757-1300
Chairman – Faye Higgins
http://www.co.caldwell.nc.us/emailcontact/fayehiggins/
Vice-Chairman – Ron Beane
http://www.co.caldwell.nc.us/emailcontact/ronbeane/
Vice-Chairman – Don Barrier
http://www.co.caldwell.nc.us/emailcontact/donbarrier/
Vice-Chairman – Herb Greene
http://www.co.caldwell.nc.us/emailcontact/herbgreene/
Vice-Chairman – Dr. John Thuss
http://www.co.caldwell.nc.us/emailcontact/johnthuss/
