Does Tryon Creek or one of its tributaries run through or beside your property? Are you interested in replanting with native trees and plants, and protecting environmentally sensitive land? We offer all homeowners within the watershed free, on-site consultations that will give you tips on how to restore your property, from weed management and erosion control to helping you choose plants and find sources for materials. Contact us to set up a meeting!

The Council offers in-depth and long-term assistance to qualifying homeowners with property along a stream or wetland. Our goal is to connect greenspaces and creeks across private and public land in our watershed, to create healthy habitat for plants, birds, mammals, insects and people.

How does Reach for the Creek help property owners?

• Technical Support: A team of volunteers helps each property owner develop a site and planting plan. We offer advice on how to control erosion and effectively remove invasive weeds such as English ivy, Himalayan blackberry, European clematis, and knotweed.
  
• Volunteer Muscle Power: We will recruit and bring volunteers to remove invasive weeds and replant native trees and shrubs. We’ll schedule work parties and bring gloves and tools.
  
• Native Plants and Erosion Control Materials: The Council may provide native plants and erosion control materials for free or reduced prices to Reach for the Creek participants, to help meet the restoration goals of the site.

What does it take to become a Reach for the Creek site?

Reach for the Creek is a three-year commitment from both the property owner and the Council. We work together to improve and restore the wetlands and streams on your property. Because our funding and volunteer labor is limited, we cannot guarantee that all qualifying properties will be accepted as Reach for the Creek sites. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

• Own property within the Tryon Creek watershed
• Your property must have a stream, wetland or spring on or bordering it
• Have an interest in planting native trees and shrubs, and controlling erosion
• Desire to work with volunteers on your property
• Be willing to commit your time and labor for at least three years

Contact us for more information, and to receive an application.