***At this time, we are closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic***
It is our pleasure to welcome you to
Sequatchie Valley Institute
at Moonshadow!
Here is some important information you might like to know!
To begin, this is a nature reserve, and we ask that it be treated with due respect. Please be considerate to the grounds and to the people & resident wildlife (frogs, lizards, etc.) you encounter. There is much to learn from them!
One might come across not-so-friendly snakes.
Walk carefully, with your eyes on the alert.
Please remember that “Moonshadow Life”
is rustic and close to nature.
IF YOU GET LOST
Call us!
Land lines:
(423) 949-4598
(423) 949-5922
Cell:
(404) 698-5444
WHEN YOU GET HERE
***We are currently closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic***
Upon arrival (arriving before dark simplifies things), we encourage you to park before crossing the creek, as the water level may be too high for many vehicles to cross, and can rise up after rains somewhat suddenly, delaying travel.
If the lower lot is full, the creek is dry, and no storms are expected:
It is permissible to park in the large forest glade parking area (about 0.3 mi. up the hill) which accommodates most vehicles.
Those with prior permission, and those who are either very adventurous and/or use an SUV may drive all the way up the rough, steeply-inclined, and sometimes slick, one-lane driving path leading up to Sequatchie Valley Institute HQ.
Complimentary shuttles up and down the slope for rides and/or gear are available for all. Look or ask for the “Gear Teleportation Stations” located at registration/check-in for help getting tents, packs, and food up to Moonshadow.
WHAT TO BRING
Good, sturdy rubber, or hiking boots are invaluable for traversing rough, wet, rocky, muddy, and/or weedy areas.
Due to sometimes-thriving insect populations — long sleeves and pants is the way to go! You may want to bring bug spray. We ask that only eco-/body-friendly bug spray be used on the premises.
Bedding — even if you didn’t plan to spend the night, be prepared. Bring your pillow, a camping pad, bedroll, towel, and small tent (tent optional for short visits; there are open-air covered areas you can sleep under).
In the winter: Bring warm clothes! Better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
WHAT NOT TO BRING
PETS. We have gardens and domestic animals, and we are a nature reserve with protected wildlife. Even the best pet can create unpleasant and unnecessary problems. Thank you so much for your consideration.
Extraneous things that use electricity. We have minimal excess solar power, and we appreciate conservation.
Anything that you plan to leave here — we request that you take ALL your garbage and recycling home with you. Carrying an ice chest of empty bottles down the trail can be a hassle.
FOOD
For gatherings defined as potlucks:
Plan to bring food to share — This may be coordinated
beforehand, so as to avoid the catastrophic outcome of
having 50 bags of chips and no dip.
It is helpful for all visitors to keep up with their treasured
leftover containers – and not-so-treasured refuse.
If you wish to maintain cold-temperature items, be
sure to bring a cooler with ice.
ACCOMMODATIONS
For the most part – unless otherwise noted for particular events – there will not be assigned caretakers, and children must have the supervision of their parent or legal guardian at all times
while visiting Sequatchie Valley Institute.
Acquire a resident’s input before maintaining
and/or adjusting any fire.
Our open fireplaces can be dangerous, and are
considered entirely off-limits for minors.
Never place anything flammable near the fires.
DO NOT put any bedding near the hearths.
There is to be NO SMOKING IN, OR NEAR, ANY STRUCTURE,
including main structures, outbuildings, huts, and others.
There will be a designated smoking area (complete with butt-disposal) set-up at every event. NO CANDLES, kerosene lamps, or any other source of open flame is to be kindled without the express permission and supervision of a resident.
Water:
Our water comes from a spring, and is not only limited, but has also not been through rigorous methods of testing clearing it for wide consumption. Even though we feel safe drinking it daily, there are many who may want to bring their own water bottle.
We ask that individuals do not shower nor
use the flush toilet in the family house.
WE COMPOST.
Got egg shells? We love ’em. Here’s to soil health!
We have two lovely, well-maintained outdoor compost toilets.
If you have any questions or reservations, a resident will be more than happy to share more education. Follow the signs near Moonshadow to find them, or ask a resident.
If you experience any difficulties or have any further questions, please do not
hesitate to reach out to the residents, or
our team for further information.
Sequatchie Valley Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit
educational organization with our funding coming
completely from your tax-deductible donations.
We appreciate your generosity to help keep our wonderful programs and facilities available for everyone.
Volunteers help our world go ’round, for sure! There are always many things to be done at Moonshadow and S.V.I., and
we appreciate good help.
Check out our Friends of Sequatchie Valley Institute Facebook group, or ask us at an event, to find out how you can get involved!
