Title: A Year After Hurricane Helene’s Devastation, Raft Guides Turn to River Clean-Up Missions In September 2024, eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina were hit by the remnants of Hurricane Helene with devastating floods that forced most rafting companies in the area to shut down operations. A year later, as rivers popular for whitewater rafting reopened for the 2025 season, one such river remained closed – the Nolichucky River. The closure of this beloved rafting destination has had a significant impact on local businesses and communities that rely heavily on tourism revenue from these activities. To make up for lost income, some professional whitewater river guides have taken it upon themselves to embark on clean-up missions along the Nolichucky River. Amelia Taylor, who has been a guide in the area for about sixteen years, decided to switch gears and become what she calls “a professional trash lady.” Despite the occasional bump, scrape, or bruise, Taylor finds joy in her new role as she gets to find useful items among the trash. She even admits that dealing with garbage is easier than people sometimes! The decision by these raft guides to turn their focus towards cleaning up the river not only helps address the environmental damage caused by Hurricane Helene but also provides an alternative source of income for those affected by the closure of popular tourist attractions. This initiative showcases resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity, which is a testament to the strength of these communities. As we move forward from this disaster, it’s essential that we continue supporting local businesses and initiatives like these river clean-up missions. They not only contribute positively to our environment but also help rebuild economies shattered by natural disasters. Let us remember the lessons learned during Hurricane Helene and strive towards creating more sustainable practices in both our personal lives and industries. In conclusion, while it may be challenging for some raft guides to adapt to their new roles as “professional trash ladies,” they are making a significant impact on restoring the Nolichucky River after Hurricane Helene’s devastation. Their efforts serve as an inspiration for us all to find creative solutions when faced with unexpected challenges and work towards building stronger, more resilient communities.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/09/29/nx-s1-5534446/hurricane-helene-tennessee-river-clean-up)
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