Part of the Rethinking Resilience series by BPR and Grist, this article examines how Western North Carolina is preparing for future disasters through various tools and skills.
When Hurricane Helene struck, it left many in Western North Carolina isolated and without power. Facing these challenges, Shelby Treichler, operations coordinator at the Asheville Tool Library, aimed to reach the library’s solar-powered setup. Yet, a fallen tree blocked the only road out of her Weaverville neighborhood.
“I didn’t think to bring my tools home with me. Like, none of us thought to be on that level prepared,” Treichler reflected. Armed only with a hand saw, she attempted to clear the path. Suddenly, a man appeared with a chainsaw, swiftly cutting through the tree before departing with a simple nod. “I was like, ‘This is community. This is beautiful,’” Treichler remarked, emphasizing the spontaneous camaraderie.
In the aftermath of Helene, such volunteer-driven efforts became common across the region. Chainsaw brigades, often comprised of local volunteers, played a crucial role in reopening roads. Local poet Gerald Smith captured this spirit in his words, “The sweet, sweet sound of chainsaws,” which resonated deeply with the survivors.
Quetzal Jordan, who started the Skills Academy for Women, has instructed over 500 individuals in chainsaw safety since the hurricane. A new workshop is scheduled for November. “I have seen a huge uptick of people interested,” said Jordan. With participants ranging from 18 to 75 years old, she notes that older attendees often find the experience especially transformative.
Educational efforts continue with North Carolina State and McDowell Technical Community College offering chainsaw classes. Sarah Seiler, a 53-year-old from Saluda, attended a course in the Pisgah National Forest, learning essential cutting techniques and safety measures. Now, she applies these skills to her 40-acre property, saying, “It’s really nice to know you can take care of yourself.”
This focus on chainsaw training is part of a wider initiative in Western North Carolina, promoting tools as essential for climate resilience.
The WNC Repair Cafe has established a mobile repair unit equipped with solar panels and tools for fixing essential equipment. This unit is designed to assist in future crises by ensuring the functionality of power tools and other necessary items.
Meanwhile, the Asheville Tool Library, with its extensive inventory of over 4,000 tools, serves as a vital resource. Although chainsaws cannot be rented due to insurance constraints, the library organizes workshops and maintains a supply of chainsaws for emergency use. Treichler noted, “We were doing this work before and resiliency was kind of in all of our minds… it’s taken on a very different meaning now.”
