The Rural Recovery Center is assisting with Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, focusing on rural communities such as Canton and Old Fort. It collaborates with FEMA to maximize funds and accelerate the recovery of the $60 billion in damages and 108 lives lost. The priority is the reconstruction of infrastructure, housing, and economic support, with a process expected to take several years.
Canton, North Carolina, has faced industrial closures and natural disasters, but its community shows resilience and hope. Mayor Zeb Smathers highlights the revitalization of the downtown area and the emergence of local businesses, preserving the city’s identity.
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Old Fort, North Carolina, destroying homes, trails, and businesses, affecting the recreational economy. The community unites to rebuild and maintain their vision of a just and sustainable future, focused on developing an elite trail network for cycling and hiking, boosting its tourist appeal.
The EU climate legislation announced in July 2025 aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990. The proposal aligned with the Paris Agreement includes a binding target and seeks to establish a regulatory framework for decarbonization through sustained fiscal, industrial, and infrastructure changes supported by long-term climate objectives.
Reimagine Rural Podcast’s Third Season, with Tony Pipa, will release new episodes featuring visits to coastal towns, exploring community changes and public policies. From disaster recovery in North Carolina to revitalization in Kentucky and clean energy in Minnesota, Pipa discusses how rural communities face challenges and thrive. Listen to Reimagine Rural.
