Cocktails & Conservation

Editor’s note: The following event took place before Hurricane Helene made landfall in Asheville. We’ve decided to publish this recap as planned because it highlights this extraordinary community that has since been devastated by historic flooding and stands as a reminder of the immense help still needed. Find ways you can assist those in Western North Carolina here.

In partnership with Explore Asheville, Garden & Gun hosted a panel conversation to celebrate the work of the 2024 Champions of Conservation at Hickory Nut Gap Farm. Following live music and cocktails, guests were seated for a panel discussion. G&G editor in chief David DiBenedetto, alongside JJ Apodaca, a 2023 Champion and executive director of the Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy in Asheville, led an engaging dialogue to learn more about the panelists’ groundbreaking work, as each Champion shared the story of their conservation efforts.

Read more about 2024 Champions of Conservation.