North Carolina

I’m Joe Ruppe and I’ve called the Carolinas home my entire life and grew up surrounded by our state’s natural beauty and diverse outdoors. My early years in the Scouting program introduced me to the importance of respecting and caring for our outdoors. Today, I make my home in Mills River, in the heart of Western North Carolina and enjoy the area’s exceptional hiking, waterfalls, whitewater, and mountain peaks. Our proximity to large population areas increases the importance of sharing our message with these Frontcountry users. We welcome a new and diverse generation to share the outdoors and in the responsibility of protecting them. I am excited to be a part of reaching as many of our new outdoor enthusiasts as possible and to help them make our “ethics” their own.

If I may be of assistance in planning an event in your area or if you would like to become more involved in spreading the Leave No Trace message, feel free to contact me! And check out the North Carolina Leave No Trace Facebook page for events and updates from around the state.

Please contact Joe at [email protected].

I’m Carol Smith, a Professor in the Department of Education & Wellness, and program coordinator of the Outdoor Leadership & Education major and Adventure Based Learning minor at Elon University. I mentor numerous undergraduate students in areas of research that intersect with my own interests, focusing on the intersection of nature, being outdoors, mental health, resilience, and grit. I love spending time gardening or just sitting enjoying the flowers. I enjoy hiking, walking in the woods near our creek, and paddling. Reach out to get involved or plan an event!

Please contact Carol at [email protected].