Hellbenders are giant aquatic salamanders, native to the eastern US. These impressive creatures look pre-historic, with flat heads, long tails and can grow up to 2 feet in length!
The presense of Hellbenders in a stream is an indicator of clean water! Due to their permeable skin (which they breath through!), the Hellbender is extremely vulnerable to pollutants in the environment. 75% of the Eastern Hellbender population has dissappeared due to urban development, dams, mining, and agriculture.
We’re all downstream. Just like the Hellbender, we rely on water from the small tributaries, all the way to the Cumberland River. Even our beweries rely on clean water to make the best brews! Ticket sales support the work of the Cumberland River Compact to enhance the health and enjoyment of the Cumberland River and its tributaries. Our efforts in education, restoration, and outreach help improve the health of the waters we all rely on.
