📅 What will you be Doing?

Monday kicks off with a full day of field-based training—perfect for those seeking EWP certification or a confidence refresher. This day also serves as the field component for those seeking EWP certification (virtual component will be the week prior & is required if seeking certification). 

Tuesday–Friday, you'll work on real-world site assessments in teams across affected areas.

Experienced mentors will be available throughout the week to guide, answer questions, and offer hands-on support. Our Communication Operations Center will be open daily to help with paperwork, FDRs/DSRs, tech needs, and more.

This is a real opportunity to make an impact while sharpening your skills, learning by doing, and helping communities recover and build resilience.

💡 Why This Matters:

Disasters are becoming more frequent and more intense. Today it's western NC—tomorrow it could be your region.

Being part of this effort strengthens our network, our readiness, and our ability to support one another when it matters most.

Participants will leave better prepared to handle EWP work locally—a vital skill set for community resilience and professional growth.

🧰 Who Should Participate:

• EWP-certified staff

• Staff seeking certification (attend a virtual webinar the week prior + Monday field training)

• Staff expecting to complete EWP projects in the near future

• Individuals curious about disaster response logistics, paperwork, and fieldwork

• Professionals looking to learn, serve, and grow

• New employees looking to grow their network and support system

• Certified participants who want to mentor others and lead in recovery work

🏕️ Why Should you Attend?

By participating, you’re directly contributing to Hurricane Helene recovery while strengthening North Carolina’s ability to respond to future disasters. You’ll gain valuable experience, grow your confidence, and help build a more prepared conservation community. Be ready to learn, serve, and recharge with colleagues from across the state.

Whether you can attend all week or just a few days, your help matters.

💸 Support & Reimbursement

• Lodging and meals are covered & provided throughout week

• Reimbursement available for mileage (individual or District/County)

• Districts receive payment for FDRs and DSRs completed by certified participants after Tuesday

🎣 Extras & After-Hours Fun

This week isn’t all work—we’re planning time to unwind and have fun together!

Bring your fishing pole (and a valid NC fishing license) if you’d like to cast a line nearby. Pack a musical instrument or your favorite card/board games—evenings are a great time to connect

Enjoy on-site hiking trails and scenic views—the facility is a true mountain escape

📣 Notes

Full-week participation is encouraged for maximum impact, but partial attendance is welcome—just note that on your registration.

Please register early so we can secure enough lodging accommodations.

Lodging & food are secured through the Division of Soil & Water Conservation. This event features barracks-style lodging with single occupancy accommodations, community meals, and a communication operations center to assist with submitting EWP paperwork. This should provide a relaxing week, in terms of logistics, so individuals can focus on their EWP projects. Not to mention the facility grounds are beautiful! More information is provided under event information.

What is EWP?

The Emergency Watershed Protection Program offers technical and financial assistance to help local communities relieve imminent threats to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other natural disasters that impair a watershed.

Questions?