Western NC Hurricane Cleanup: Pack Mules, Horses and ATVs in Spruce Pine NC 

By: Roger Sigmon – Wise News Network

Spruce Pine, NC (WNN) – Three weary travelers covered in mud, riding horses as they guide pack mules up the treacherous mud-slicked, debris-filled Appalachian Mountainside. At first glance, one might think they have traveled back to the 1800s and are witnessing prospectors searching for gold. However, this is a scene from last week in Spruce Pine in Western North Carolina. What they seek and offer is far more precious than gold. These three on horseback are ordinary people who have traveled from Montana to offer their help in the ongoing recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

They are delivering much-needed supplies and hope to those stranded after the recent devastation to this quiet little mountain town in the foothills of North Carolina, as well as doing welfare checks. The most precious thing they bring is hope. They had arrived one night after dinner and entered the dining area, asking how they could be of service. Seeing the horses and mules, leaders gave them supplies and directed them to a location. They camped out at the base of the mountain that night, heading out on their mountain journey at first light. They were excited to be able to put their talents and time to good use, helping others.

Steve Gregory

This is one of many stories relayed to me by Steve Gregory, who is working onsite in Spruce Pine as lead administrator at Spruce Pine Baptist Church under the direction of the NC Baptist Disaster Relief Team. Five sites have been set up: Biltmore-Arden, Marion, Boone, Hendersonville, and Sprue Pine.

Steve is no stranger to disaster relief and recovery efforts or helping others. He retired in 2015 after serving in various positions in law enforcement for 34 years in Gaston County, NC. During this time and after, Steve served in many ministerial roles, including youth minister, associate pastor, and founding pastor of an outreach and church in a mobile home community located in western Gaston County. Currently, he is a chaplain and administration volunteer for NC Baptist Disaster Relief. Gregory has spent over 40 years in missions, ministry, outreach, and disaster relief. He not only has the heart for those in need but also the experience and training to lead others in similar efforts.

Initially, his role as lead administrator was to assess immediate needs and get things ready for workers as they arrived on site for their assignments. This is not his only role, as he is also boots on the ground helping where needed. Most days begin around 5:30 a.m. and end with lights-out, which is 10:00 p.m. Each day has its own challenges, frustrations, sorrows, and rewards.

Destruction

I asked Steve what his thoughts upon arrival were. He responded, “The damage is unimaginable to the human eye. Homes were obliterated; in some cases, they slid off their foundations and were swept downstream by the rapids.” He went on to say that the destruction was so severe that on the disaster scale of severity, Spruce Pine scored the highest rating of 7. A solemn Steve Gregory stated, “Seeing the destruction in the flooded downtown area broke my heart. I vacationed here just last year.”   

Many obstacles have hampered the efforts of relief teams. Residents are basically cut off from the outside world, both geographically and in terms of communication. A few of their greatest needs are clear roads, power, and phone service. Things most of us take for granted. According to Mr. Gregory, “It is difficult to service families in need when you must have an ATV to make the connections. It is frustrating to the citizens that they cannot communicate to the outside world, nor their families and friends.”
Many of the residents’ stories have been shocking. Imagine watching everything you own being swept away by rushing flood waters or being stranded on a rooftop or in a tree awaiting help.

One Hundred People Stranded

On a recent night, 100 people were discovered deep in a rural area of an isolated mountain. They had been stranded with no way to traverse what were once roadways. One elderly gentleman was eating his last sandwich and was wondering how he would find another meal. Now, trees can be cut out of travel lanes, food can be brought in, and most importantly, hope has arrived.

Normally, the mountains enjoy an influx of tourists armed with cameras to capture the fall foliage as the leaves turn from green to brilliant orange, red, and yellow hues, creating breathtaking views and memories. This year, however, the influx is not from tourists but from volunteers armed with cases of water, shovels, and chainsaws. Instead of boosting the local economy, they are boosting morale by bringing much-needed supplies, help, and hope. Every day, we are bombarded with negative news stories; ironically, times of tragedy help to renew our hope in humanity. People truly do care about helping out others in times of dire need.

The Recovery

Relief and Recovery efforts require more than a few days with a shovel, broom, and dustpan. Entire towns, roadways, and bridges were washed away, as well as power lines and cell towers. Many months will be required to restore some semblance of normalcy. People will need to keep in mind that much manpower and supplies will be needed not only now but also in the months ahead. Mr. Gregory urged everyone willing to support the efforts through sincere prayer daily. The work can be tiring and stressful; it’s a slow go, which can be frustrating. Anyone willing and able is encouraged to pray and donate to relief efforts at sites in your local area.

©WNN

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