Saved By a Salamander Day

Raising Awareness. Celebrating Success.

Conservation of the New River in Ashe County has a rich and successful history, one that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

On Saturday, May 17th, 2025 the New River Conservancy, The Old Store at Grassy Creek, and many other partners will host a day of events that not only share the story, but teach us about conservation efforts that will help us enjoy the New River and its wonderful wildlife for years to come.

Why the name “Saved by a Salamander”? What does it mean?

The Old Store is located in Grassy Creek, North Carolina on the northern border of Ashe County. One of the legends floating around Grassy Creek is that when the American Electric Power Company made plans to dam the New River and flood the Grassy Creek valley in the 1970s, the obstacle that finally prevented them from doing so was a salamander. James Watson, a member of The Old Store staff and avid herpetologist, decided to dig into this story a little more. And what he learned was fascinating!  The Salamander in question was a hellbender and it might have played a role in saving Grassy Creek.

The rest of the story includes the designation of the New River as a scenic water way and the origins of the New River Conservancy.

Saved by a Salamander Day tells the story and raises awareness of ways we can continue to support the conservation of this historic watershed for future generations.