Clemson University is leading a series of projects in the National Forests of Western North Carolina to understand how Hurricane Helene has impacted the plants and animals that live there.

Field surveys will be used to measure the effects of the storm on species of conservation concern and their habitats and to help guide restoration projects. They will provide scientifically rigorous data that will inform recovery efforts for species and ecosystems that have been negatively impacted by Hurricane Helene.

• 14 Clemson professors
• 58 Clemson staff and students (and counting)

List of projects:

Forest Structure, Composition, and Rare Vascular Plants Assessment

This project evaluates how Hurricane Helene altered forest ecosystems across seven ecozones and whether changes exceed natural variability. Results will guide restoration, reforestation, invasive species management, and conservation of rare vascular plants.

Early Successional Habitats Project

Researchers are studying storm-created canopy openings and their value for wildlife and pollinators. The project will help identify priority areas for habitat management benefiting species such as golden-winged warblers, monarch butterflies, ruffed grouse, and elk.

Stream Habitat Assessment and Restoration Prioritization

Using LiDAR and field assessments, this project evaluates post-Helene stream conditions and habitat quality. Findings will support restoration planning and improve aquatic habitats for rare and protected species.

Identifying Priority Geographies for Fish and Wildlife Species Recovery

This effort develops habitat suitability models for at least 15 plant and animal species. The resulting maps will help target future surveys, monitoring, and restoration activities in Helene-impacted areas.

Sensitive Forest Floor Species Distribution and Connectivity Assessment

Focused on rare salamanders and snails, this project examines habitat loss, population connectivity, and recovery needs following storm-related disturbance. The findings will inform targeted conservation and restoration strategies.

Fish and Crayfish Communities Assessment

This large-scale assessment examines how Hurricane Helene affected fish and crayfish communities across impacted watersheds. The project will identify restoration priorities, recovery needs, and opportunities for species reintroduction.

Helene Impacts on Semi-Aquatic Turtles

Researchers are evaluating the status of bog turtles and other rare semi-aquatic turtles in flood-affected habitats. The project will guide habitat restoration and species recovery efforts in mountain bogs and riparian systems.

Hellbender Status Assessment and Recovery

This project assesses the condition of Eastern Hellbender populations in Helene-impacted watersheds. Results will support habitat restoration, population recovery, and long-term conservation planning for this imperiled species.

Rare Mammal Distribution and Recovery Planning

The project investigates Hurricane Helene’s impacts on Carolina northern flying squirrels and several bat species. Findings will inform habitat restoration and management strategies to support long-term population persistence.

Small Mammal Assessment

Focused on Allegheny woodrats and Southern Appalachian water shrews, this project evaluates habitat needs and storm impacts. Results will identify priority restoration areas and guide recovery actions for these rare mammals.

Bird Community Assessment and Species-Specific Response

Using acoustic monitoring, field surveys, and remote sensing, researchers are studying bird responses to Hurricane Helene. The project will support conservation planning for both early-successional and mature forest bird species.

Aquatic Insect SCC Assessment

This project assesses the status and recovery needs of rare aquatic insects, including dragonflies, mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies. Results will help guide aquatic ecosystem restoration and species conservation efforts.

Water Quality Assessment of the Davidson River

Researchers are evaluating water quality and aquatic communities in the Davidson River following Hurricane Helene and hatchery renovations. The project will identify risks to biodiversity and inform future river management decisions.