Abstract

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina experienced extreme damage and erosion to riparian banks. River cane, also known as Arundinaria gigantea, is one of the only four bamboos native to North America. Known for its strong rhizomatous root systems, river cane may have the potential to mitigate river and stream bank erosion. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, are likely to increase due to the current worsening climate crisis, making it even more important to understand the role that river cane plays in stabilizing stream and river banks in the region. Through on-site assessments of riparian bank erosion hazards, this project examines the role of river cane in reducing riparian bank erosion and maintaining bank stability following the recent hurricane. 

Keywords

Hurricane, Helene, Hurricane Helene, Riverbank, Streambank, Stream, River, Bank, Erosion, Riparian, Riparian Buffer, River Cane, Rivercane, Rhizomatous, Arundinaria gigantea, Native Bamboo, Climate Crisis, Recovery, Resilience

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