Abigail Margulis

amargulis@citizen-times.com

EARTHAVEN - Residents in the ecovillage known as Earthaven, about 40 miles southeast of Asheville, are worried that the Party Rock fire could spread into their 329-square acre town, destroying the 22-year-old community.

The community is holding two "fire prep work parties" in anticipation of potential fire growth. They begin at 8:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Friday. Anyone is welcome to come help blow leaves away from home sites and remove anything that could easily catch fire.

"The fire seems to be heading straight for our community," a Facebook post states. "It seems to be less than 2 miles away with winds picking up Thursday through Sunday and very low humidity. It's hard to know when or if or how (ground or canopy fire) but we are starting to mobilize out here."

The community of roughly 60 members is nestled in the forested slopes near Black Mountain and includes homes, businesses, orchards and gardens, according to its website. The community is dedicated to caring for people and the earth by learning and demonstrating a holistic, sustainable culture.

The community invites people to bring supplies, tools and food.

A news release lists the following items are needed:

Eye goggles

Respirators

Rakes

Gloves

Leaf blowers

Pruners

Saws

Dry, well labeled food

2-4 pounds of sunflower seeds, millet, popping corn or lentils

Driving Directions:

Google Maps and other navigation devices sometimes don't lead to the correct place. Residents recommend plugging in 126 Camp Elliott Road, Black Mountain, 28711, and follow the directions from Stone Mountain School, below.

From Interstate 40 (east or west): Take exit 73 at Old Fort, heading south on Bat Cave Road for 8.5 miles, and take a left on Camp Elliott Road.

After turning onto Camp Elliott Road: Go about a mile down Camp Elliott Road, past Stone Mountain School.



After Stone Mountain School, please reduce your speed to 15 mph. You will come to the end of the pavement, where the road forks, with Full Circle Trail on the right, and Another Way straight ahead through an open metal gate. Proceed through this gate, and you are at Earthaven. The Earthaven speed limit is 10 mph. Cross one bridge and look for parking on the left before you reach the next stream. Tours start at the visitor kiosk on the right.