On Thursday, May 31, the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) will host Appalachian Spring, a conservation celebration, from 5 to 8 pm at the Salvage Station in Asheville, NC. The event will celebrate recent conservation success stories across the region, raise support for ongoing land and water protection efforts, and honor the 2018 Stanley A. Murray Volunteers of the Year. “Appalachian Spring is a great opportunity for people to come together for conservation,” says Cheryl Fowler, SAHC’s membership director. “We love to swap stories – and this setting by the French Broad River creates a fun atmosphere for us to meet new people and catch up with long-time members. We’re also looking forward to a wonderful performance by talented local musicians.” This year, SAHC celebrates its 44th anniversary, protecting more than 73,000 acres across the Blue Ridge mountains for clean water sources, farmland, habitat, and places for people to enjoy outdoor recreation. Recent conservation successes include: 541 acres of the Marshall watershed protected by conservation easement, a conservation easement on 526 acres in Swannanoa visible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and 170 acres purchased by the nonprofit land trust in Fairview, which contain important bird habitat and adjoin part of the Hickory Nut regional trail system. As part of the Appalachian Spring event, SAHC will honor the 2018 Stanley A. Murray Volunteers of the Year — student volunteers from the French Broad River Academy (FBRA). For several years, these students have enthusiastically assisted with invasive species management projects, trail building, stream restoration, and agricultural production on SAHC’s Community Farm. Live music for the event will be provided by Daniel Shearin and friends — award-winning local musicians who have played with well-known bands across the nation, blending American and traditional influences to create an eclectic vibe. Ticket price includes dinner (with vegetarian-friendly options) and each attendee will receive a $10 gear card from Diamond Brand Outdoors. Tickets in advance: $30 SAHC members, $35 non-members, $20 student/AmeriCorps, $10 youth 7-13, and ages 6 and under free. Tickets at the door $40. The public is invited to attend. Proceeds benefit local land and water conservation. Info and tickets available at https://appalachian.org/https://appalachian.org/.