Scott Morrow discusses his knowledge of the Uwharrie River and the surrounding land. He sees river debris, which he believes is from local tree cutting. He explains that as long ago as the 1940s, the area was farmland. He continues that hardwood grew where farmland had been, but as these were cut, the area was replanted with pine trees. He says that this has driven wildlife away since deer and squirrels do not eat pine cones. Mr. Morrow remembers canoeing since he was a teenager. He recalls a friend, who was an outfitter on the French Broad River, encouraging him to take up the activity on the Uwharrie River. Mr. Morrow remembers originally advertising his business by meeting visitors at the Eldorado Outpost and depending on word of mouth. He adds that he recently did a photo shoot for Southern Living magazine and maintains a web site. He estimates that he himself paddles about 30 to 40 times a year. Mr. Morrow explains that the flow of the river fluctuates during the year and that the water can sometimes be too low to canoe. He adds that, depending on the wishes of his clients, he may use the Rocky River, the Little River, or the flat-water sections of the Pee Dee River if there are no motorboats in the area. Mr. Morrow estimates that 20% of the people who use the Uwharrie National Forest are canoeists, but adds that fishing is also very good on the river. He believes that this popularity will help keep the river clean. People care and he sees often sees them picking up after each other. Mr. Morrow believes that the increase of usage on the river is good for the health of the river and is raising awareness among local residents. As an example, he uses that fact that people no longer dig trenches on their properties and use them as landfills. He also mentions the introduction of Handy Sanitary utility and its sewage plan. Mr. Morrow ends the interview outlining some plans for the future. He expresses an interest in some historical development in the area surrounding the old grinding mill. He draws a line between building support from local residents to protect the region, and trying to keep housing developments out. He encourages various youth groups to enjoy the river, the region, and the outdoors. However, Mr. Morrow sees land being clear cut and sold; he expects a lot of changes over the next 10 years.
