The Great Coharie River has served the Coharie Tribe for generations as a spiritual center to fish, swim, relax, and commune with nature. However, in the 1990s two hurricanes devastated the river. Fallen trees and debris clogged the once free-flowing water, and the beaver population grew so much that their dams took over the river banks.

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Nearly 20 years later, the Tribe is working to bring back the river. They began by partnering with the NC Forest Service to safely clear the Coharie River. They purchased supplies and equipment, including chainsaws and a work boat. Volunteers, which included members of the Coharie and neighboring tribes and area residents, removed fallen trees, debris, and beaver dams.

After three years of work, 13 miles of the river have been cleared, and volunteers have logged more than 5,000 miles on the water. 

The restoration project has brought together young and old to experience the river again. Elders share stories from their youth, and many people talk about the healing quality of the river. The river is now open to the public, and many people swim, fish, and kayak on its waters. The nonprofit Friends of the Sampson County Waterways has provided kayaks and paddles to the tribe, and organized eco-tourism trips for groups that want to visit the river.

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By restoring the river, the Coharie people have passed on a tradition of environmental stewardship to the next generation; taught others about the importance of appreciating and using natural spaces; and built community around outdoor activities and community health.