Ela Dam Vision

Oconaluftee River Upstream, Post-Bank Clearing, Pre-Impoundment (1924-1925)

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Initial Clearing and Construction, Pre-Impoundment (1924-1925)

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Historic view of the early stages of Ela Dam’s construction, a moment that reshaped the flow and life of the river (1924-1925)

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In-Progress Construction, Concrete Formwork (1924-1925)

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The cultural riverscape and dams of the Southern Blue Ridge

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Agoliye - Reading the histories of the land

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River valley plant communities of the Cherokee

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NBW’s work at Ela Dam begins with listening to the river, the land, and the people who have known it longest. In partnership with Mainspring Conservation Trust and Ela Dam Project LLC, we are developing a Landscape Visioning Plan shaped by ecological study, cultural landscape research, and deep engagement with the Eastern Band of the Cherokee. This process looks toward a future where restored waters and renewed habitats honor the Cherokee’s enduring relationship with this place and invite new possibilities for cultural, ecological, and recreational life.

Ela Dam Vision

Ela, NC

2024 - Ongoing

Collaborators

Client

NBW Design Leadership