ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Hundreds of volunteers gathered Saturday on the University of North Carolina Asheville campus to participate in “Wrap the Woods,” a community-driven event aimed at preserving a 54-acre urban forest from development.
Participants formed a human chain around sections of the forest, holding up painted sheets with slogans and artwork expressing support for conservation. One sheet read, “We don’t inherit these woods from our ancestors, we borrow them from our children,” reflecting the event’s environmental message.
The initiative, organized by local advocacy group Save UNCA Woods, is part of a broader effort to oppose plans for a 5,000-seat stadium, market-rate housing and retail development on the forested land. Organizers said the event drew more than 400 participants and served as a demonstration of community solidarity.
“This is democracy in action,”volunteer Callie Warner said in a social media post. “We can speak out, demand better choices, and care for our community and its future.”
The “Wrap the Woods” concept was inspired by a 1980s effort in downtown Asheville, when residents held up chains of cloth to protest a proposed mall that would have demolished 11 blocks of the city. Save UNCA Woods has been hosting sign- and sheet-painting events leading up to Saturday’s demonstration, including one on Sept. 3 at the Montford Community Center.
Organizers encouraged community members to volunteer for future events, donate or help with planning.
“The enthusiasm is there to do another wrap,” volunteer Maariah K. McAndrew in a social media post. “The breeze blew our intentions right into the woods. We laughed, we played, we stood for our intentions. That was a strong statement, my friends delivered with joy.”
The group plans a benefit concert on Sept. 22 at the Grey Eagle, featuring Rising Appalachia and other local performers, to raise funds and further awareness. Their next community meeting is scheduled for Sept. 11 at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church to provide updates and discuss next steps.
More information and volunteer registration can be found here.
