Established in 1996

Pigeon River Fund

Through fall 2024, more than $10 million has been awarded in grants by the Pigeon River Fund to projects in Haywood, Buncombe and Madison counties.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license creating the Pigeon River Fund (PRF) as well as the PRF Fund Agreement defined the objectives of the grant program as follows:

To improve surface water quality
To enhance fish and wildlife management habitats
To expand public use and access to waterways
To increase citizens' awareness about their roles in protecting these resources

The Pigeon River Fund was established in 1996 through an agreement between Carolina Power & Light (now Duke Energy) and the State of North Carolina. The grant program is administered by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.

We are beyond grateful for the support and guidance of the PRF over the past 25 years. HWA relies upon CFWNC resources across many aspects of operations and welcome the inspiration, insight and funding opportunities that allow us to meet our mission.

Preston Jacobsen, Executive Director Haywood Waterways Assocation

Pigeon River Fund Advisory Committee

Grant decisions are made by members of the Pigeon River Fund Advisory Committee who are appointed by the Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources per the FERC license agreement.

Review the Pigeon River Fund License Statement.

View Recent Grants.