We travel to Cataloochee Valley to preview the upcoming release and return of elk to the Smokies. This broad, beautiful valley in the Smokies was once home and hunting grounds for Cherokee . Later on, in the 1830's, James Bennet and Levi Caldwell came in and opened up the valley to farming. Then the Great Smoky Mountains National Park took over. The Cherokee won't be back, nor will the white settlers.
Nature is amazing.
Uninhibited by man, the transformation is steady and sure. The broad bottom land in this valley is kept mown. The rich soil once sustained life for the Cherokee and the settlers. Corn, tobacco, fruit, nuts from the forest and fish from the crystal clear streams which are the lifeblood of any society. This valley is rich with springs.