Montreat Minute 03/21/25
Be Careful: Burn Ban in Effect
Due to increased fire risk, including low humidity and strong gusty winds, the N.C. Forest Service has issued a ban on all open burning and has canceled all burning permits statewide until further notice.
It applies to all open burning, including yard waste, debris, and land-clearing burns. However, everyone is advised to use extreme caution and constant supervision for all open flames, including fire pits, barbecue grills, cooking fires, warming fires, chimenea, and outdoor stoves. Fireplaces without chimney spark guards should also be used with extreme caution.
There is currently an abundance of fire fuel on the ground as a result of the hurricane, creating ideal conditions for uncontrolled wildfires. Be sure to clean debris, including downed trees, limbs, leaves and other fuel from your own property to provide a defensive barrier for your home.
For further information on the ban, CLICK HERE.
Please be careful.
Bear Activity Increasing
As spring arrives, bear activity is increasing around Montreat. To keep both our community and the bears safe, please follow these guidelines:
- Proper Trash Disposal: Only place trash out on collection days and use bear-resistant containers. Make sure your container is properly latched and inform renters of the seriousness of securing their trash. The majority of incidents reported to the Town are related to rental homes. Never leave food scraps or garbage outside overnight. Remove food from vehicles, as bears have an uncanny ability to open car doors.
- Keep It Clean: After grilling or outdoor meals, thoroughly clean up any food residue. Bird feeders should be removed or brought inside, as they attract bears.
- Stay Alert: If you encounter a bear, remain calm, back away slowly, and never run. Give the bear plenty of space.
By properly securing trash and reducing food temptations, we can help prevent bear encounters and protect Montreat’s wildlife. Thank you for doing your part!
Help the Hemlocks
Hemlock forest
Hemlock trees are an essential part of the forest in Montreat, supporting plant and animal biodiversity and protecting the environment. While the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) can kill a hemlock in 5 years, this pest can be controlled with periodic treatments. The Montreat community has treated the hemlocks twice before. Because many of the hemlocks are in decline, it is time to rally again.
The Montreat Tree Board, through the Hemlock Restoration Initiative and the generosity of Mary and Joe Standaert,has arranged Hemlock Treatment Workdays in April 2025. With volunteers assisting, this cost-effective effort will treat selected town trees that are in decline and will not affect the predator beetle project or the watershed.
Fifteen volunteers are needed who can work both Friday April 18 and Tuesday April 22 from 9am to 3pm. Volunteers will work in small groups and walk from tree to tree treating with insecticide under the supervision of licensed professionals providing guidance and training.
Donations to cover expenses for chemicals and equipment are needed and are tax deductible. Checks should be made payable to the Town of Montreat with “Hemlocks” on the memo line.
For more information or to volunteer, please email Elizabeth Hamilton or Joe Standaert.
Updates and Reminders
- The March Board of Adjustment meeting is cancelled due to no business coming before the Board
- Do you receive your own copy of the Montreat Minute or know someone who doesn’t? Sign up for the Sunshine List to receive the Montreat Minute and stay “in the know” about the Town’s happenings. CLICK HERE to sign up for the list!
- Do you receive Montreat Code Red alerts, an emergency communications system used a number of times during the hurricane? If you would like to be added to the list, CLICK HERE.
Questions or Comments?
Do you have Town-related questions or comments to offer? If so, please send them to Angie Murphy at [email protected] and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Have a great weekend!