Landowners in Yancey County, Avery County and Mitchell County will have an opportunity in early March to pick up free livestakes to help stabilize streambanks and reduce flooding.
The livestock — cuttings taken from dormant woody plants found along stream banks — are being distributed through a collaboration led by Blue Ridge Resource Conservation and Development, along with MountainTrue, The Beacon Network and the North Carolina Cooperative Extension.
When properly installed and maintained, livestakes can grow into shrubs and trees that reduce the impacts of flooding, stabilize streambanks and improve habitat for wildlife and pollinators. To successfully take root, the stakes must be planted in moist soil within a few feet of the waterline.
Shrub species available include silky willow, silky dogwood, red stem dogwood, elderberry and buttonbush. Tree species include black willow, red maple and river birch. Organizers note the livestakes are not intended for contractor or for-profit projects.
Registration is required at blueridgercd.com. Those with questions may email david@blueridgercd.com.
Distribution dates and locations are:
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March 3, 2–4 p.m. — Yancey County N.C. Cooperative Extension Service, 30 E. Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville
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March 4, 2–4 p.m. — Avery County N.C. Cooperative Extension Service, 661 Vale Road, Newland
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March 5, 2–4 p.m. — Bowman Middle School, 410 S. Mitchell Ave., Bakersville
The giveaway is open to local landowners in the three counties, with advance registration required.