Our Community Partnerships
Through our partnerships, Echoes of the Forest is able to reach a wider audience and shine a spotlight on the extraordinary work of Western North Carolina’s woodworkers and artists. These collaborations are vital to rebuilding and strengthening the creative community in Asheville and beyond, following the devastation of Hurricane Helene—which destroyed studios, artwork, and the livelihoods of so many.
The NC Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum, nestled within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest of Pisgah National Forest near Asheville, spans 434 acres of cultivated gardens and natural landscapes. Established in 1986 as part of the University of North Carolina System, the Arboretum offers visitors a harmonious blend of nature, education, and art.
For more information, visit their official website: www.ncarboretum.org.
Cradle of Forestry
The Cradle of Forestry in America is a 6,500-acre historic site nestled in the Pisgah National Forest along the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, near Asheville. Established to preserve the birthplace of forestry and forestry education in America, the site commemorates the founding of the Biltmore Forest School by Dr. Carl Schenck in 1898 — the first forestry school in North America. Visitors can explore historical buildings from the Biltmore Forest School era, climb aboard a 1914 Climax logging train engine, walk miles of paved interpretive trails, and enjoy interactive exhibits in the Discovery Center. The site also features the mature American Sycamore Apollo Moon Tree, a gift shop, educational programs, and special events throughout the season.
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For more information, visit their official website: www.gofindoutdoors.org/sites/cradle-of-forestry/.
FIND Outdoors
FIND Outdoors is a nonprofit based in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, dedicated to forest education, stewardship, and outdoor recreation. The organization manages visitor centers, campgrounds, recreation sites, and retail outlets across North Carolina, Georgia, and Kentucky under Special Use Permits through the USDA Forest Service. Through guided tours, educational programs, and nature-based experiences for all ages, FIND Outdoors inspires people to connect with and care for their public lands.
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For more information, visit their official website: gofindoutdoors.org.
Buncombe County: Parks & Recreation
Buncombe County Parks & Recreation works to improve quality of life in the community by providing high-quality recreational facilities, opportunities for social interaction, and programming that encourages health and wellness through active lifestyles. The department manages a network of parks, greenways, pools, river access points, and soccer fields throughout Buncombe County, North Carolina, with options for online reservations and community events for all ages.​
For more information, visit their official website: buncombenc.gov/337/Parks-Recreation.
Appalachian Cooperage
This business is located in Marion, NC and it produces quality barrels for the craft spirit and wine industry.
EcoForesters
​EcoForesters is a 501c3 non-profit professional forestry organization dedicated to conserving and restoring our Appalachian forests. We're helping each other through education and shared resources.
The Radical Hotel
The Radical Hotel is a boutique hotel located in Asheville's River Arts District. Housed in a transformed 1920s warehouse, the hotel features 70 distinctive guest rooms and suites, blending industrial charm with artistic flair. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the Golden Hour restaurant, relax at the rooftop bar, or visit the café/bar After/Glow. The hotel's design incorporates local art and pays homage to its historical roots, offering a unique and immersive experience. For more information, visit theradicalavl.com.
We’re proud to partner with The Radical for special events and more.
Foundation Woodworks
Foundation Woodworks is a locally owned gallery and community woodshop located in Asheville’s historic River Arts District. Established in 2017, it showcases fine woodworking from over 65 regional artists, including turned bowls, wall sculptures, jewelry, lighting, and heirloom-quality furniture.
Many of our public art pieces are being crafted by talented woodworkers collaborating within the creative community at Foundation Woodworks.
Speaking of Travel
Speaking of Travel is an iHeart Radio show and global podcast hosted by Marilyn Ball, dedicated to sharing inspiring travel stories that highlight the transformative power of exploration. Broadcast every Saturday at 11:00 AM on 570 WWNC and available on major podcast platforms, the show features guests from around the world who discuss their unique travel experiences, cultural insights, and personal growth through travel. With a focus on sustainability and meaningful connections, Speaking of Travel encourages listeners to embrace adventure and discover the world with curiosity and purpose.
Board member, Marilyn Ball, will be sharing the Echoes of the Forest story with her audience on the Speaking of Travel show and podcast.
Swannanoa Valley Museum
Located in Black Mountain, NC, SVM is the primary institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of the Swannanoa Valley—a vital gateway to Western North Carolina. The museum focuses on the valley’s social, cultural, and natural history, spanning from early Cherokee habitation through the mid-20th century.
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Swannanoa Valley Tree Alliance
The Swannanoa Valley Tree Alliance is an alliance between Asheville GreenWorks, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, Black Mountain Parks & Greenways Foundation, and other stakeholders of our community forest canopy. We believe that the trees of the Swannanoa Valley might be one of the most important characteristics that defines local beauty and small town charm. Our trees – along municipal streets, in parks and natural areas, and in the front and back yards of homes – are our Community Forest.
Save the Woods
A group of concerned citizens, UNCA, Faculty, UNCA students, UNCA alumni, neighbors, and more calling themselves the "Friends of the Woods" and they have the support of many local organizations
Asheville Downtown Association
ADA's mission is to enhance the joyful experience of working, living, and exploring downtown Asheville. As the voice of downtown, they work to preserve the integrity of the community and support innovation for a dynamic, economically vibrant future.
