Spring in February: Record Warmth and Lake Hiwassee Conservation Efforts

* Unseasonable Warmth Today* Highs will reach 70°F across Murphy, NC and North Georgia today.* Residents are encouraged to enjoy the outdoor conditions before a return to overcast skies.* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.foxweather.com/local-weather/north-carolina/murphy* Lake Hiwassee Protection Movement* A grassroots petition with 4,000+ signatures was presented to Cherokee County Commissioners.* The goal is to secure a permanent resolution protecting public lands from development.* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://mountaintrue.org/good-news-a-campaign-to-save-public-lands-in-cherokee-county-from-development-is-working/* Union County Multi-Agency Safety Drill* Union County Schools partnered with Fire, EMS, and 911 for a comprehensive safety exercise.* The drill focused on inter-departmental coordination and emergency readiness.* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=114* 2026 Farmers Market Planning* Returning vendor applications for the 2026 season open March 13th.* Forms will be available at the Union County Cannery.* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=113* Gun Range Challenge Coins* The Union County Gun Range has released official collectible challenge coins.* Coins are available for purchase directly at the range.* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=115Appalachia Daily Update is a service of River Run Digital. We provide hyper-local news for Murphy, North Carolina, and the surrounding mountain communities. For more information or to support our work, visit https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital