View from the Highlands - Southern Appalachian Highlands

View
from the Highlands
40 Years Protecting the World’s Oldest Mountains
Autumn 2014, Volume 44, No. 2
The View Inside:
• New Land Protection p. 4
• Farmland Preservation p. 7
• Our Community Farm p. 8
• Raft Out the Trash p. 10
• Conservation Field Journal p. 11
• Why are the Balds Bald? p. 14
• 40th Anniversary Timeline p. 16
• Appalachian Spring Recap p. 18
• Upcoming Events p. 21
• Business Partnerships p. 22
• Legacy of Land & People p. 25
• Members’ Corner p. 26
Appalachian Trail across the Highlands of Roan
Challenge Hike during the June Jamboree
This edition of The View recaps our spring and summer events, features
new land protection projects, and highlights exciting upcoming hikes.
Be sure to mark your calendars for the Agricultural Equipment Demo
at Our Community Farm on Oct. 1 and the Many Moods of McCartney
All4Asheville Benefit Concert on Sept. 27. Also in this issue, we share stories
from some of the remarkable people behind our conservation work.
Appalachian Trail Highlands
Countryside
of
Roan
Appalachian.org
Office
34 Wall Street, Suite 502, Asheville, NC 28801-2710
828.253.0095 • FAX 828.253.1248
[email protected]
French
Black
Broad
River Mountains
Smoky
Mountains Valley
Board of Trustees
Milton “Buddy” Tignor, Jr., President
Nancy Edgerton, Vice President
Jay Leutze, Secretary
Jack Hamilton, Treasurer
Courtney Blossman
Leslie Casse Patty Cunningham-Woolf
Lyman “Greg” Gregory, III
Jim Houser
Anne Kilgore
Florence Krupnick
Bill Lowndes
Rick Manske
Laura McCue
Kathy Singleton
Mary Bruce Woody
Waynesville, NC
Asheville, NC
Minneapolis, NC
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Charlotte, NC
Kingsport, TN
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
Kingsport, TN
Asheville, NC
Staff
Carl Silverstein Kristy Urquhart Michelle Pugliese William Hamilton Hanni Muerdter Marquette Crockett Sarah Sheeran Cheryl Fowler Lisa Fancher Angela Shepherd Pauline Heyne
Allison Kiehl
Yael Girard
Andrea Thompson
Jesse Wood
Kana Miller
Caitlin Edenfield
Valerie True Executive Director
Associate Director Land Protection Director
Farmland Program Director
Stewardship & Conservation
Planning Director
Roan Stewardship Director
Stewardship Associate
Membership Director
Finance Compliance Director
Communications Director
Donor Relations Manager
Farmland Stewardship &
Sustainability Director
Community Farm Assistant
AmeriCorps Stewardship Associate
AmeriCorps Stewardship Associate
AmeriCorps PR & Outreach Associate
AmeriCorps Land Protection Associate
Director, Blue Ridge Forever
2 | Autumn 2014
Balsam
Mountains
Over the past 40 years, we have protected over 63,000 acres across our six
focus areas, spanning ten counties in NC & TN.
Invitation for Comment on Accreditation Renewal
The land trust accreditation program recognizes land
conservation organizations that meet national quality standards
for protecting important natural places and working lands
forever. SAHC is pleased to announce that we are applying for
renewal of accreditation. A public comment period is now open.
The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust
Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs.
SAHC first received Accreditation by the National Land Trust Alliance in 2010; this
accreditation is for a period of five years, before the end of which a land trust
must submit an application for renewal. This process provides external verification
that SAHC is meeting national quality standards, exhibiting a high level of
professionalism and commitment to long-term conservation in the public interest.
The Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on
pending applications. Comments must relate to how SAHC complies with
national quality standards. These standards address the ethical and technical
operation of a land trust. For the full list of standards see
www.landtrustaccreditation.org/tips-and-tools/indicator-practices.
To learn more about the accreditation
program or to submit a comment,
visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org or email your
comment to [email protected].
Comments may also be faxed or mailed to the
Land Trust Accreditation Commission,
Attn: Public Comments: (fax) 518-587-3183;
(mail) 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Comments on SAHC’s application will be most useful
by November 22, 2014.
Highlights:
• Big Rock Creek
(page 4)
Letter from the
Director
Throughout the year, we have been marking our 40th anniversary — and
embarking on the next forty years of conservation for the future. At our
Appalachian Spring event (p. 18), we celebrated many of our milestones over the
years, thanked retiring Trustees Jeanette Blazier and Bruce Cunningham, and
welcomed new Trustees Laura McCue and Rick Manske. As our past forms the
foundation for our future success, we invite you to reminisce about some of the
highlights along our 40th Anniversary Timeline (p. 16).
We have completed three new conservation projects his year, including two tracts
near the Appalachian Trail — Big Rock Creek (p. 4) in the Highlands of Roan and
Rice Creek (p. 5) near the Rocky Fork Wilderness — and Camby Mountain (p. 6),
an iconic landmark in the Fairview Farming Community.
Diverse projects continue to take shape on Our Community Farm
(p. 8). In keeping with our commitment to promote best management practices
along with land and resource access for beginning farmers, we will be hosting a
free agricultural equipment demo at the farm on October 1.
We also look forward to the upcoming All4Asheville Benefit Concert —The Many
Moods of McCartney — which will be held on Sept. 27 in Asheville, NC, with a
portion of proceeds benefitting SAHC. And, as always, we are deeply grateful
for our business partnerships (p. 23), philanthropic leaders (p. 25), and dedicated
members (p. 26) for continuing to sustain our conservation work.
Carl Silverstein
Executive Director
Do you have a photo or story to share? Please contact us at 828.253.0095 or [email protected].
• Rice Creek
(page 5)
• Camby Mountain
(page 6)
• Farmland Preservation
(page 7)
• Our Community Farm
(pages 8-9)
• Raft Out the Trash
(page 10)
• Conservation Field Journal
(pages 11-12)
• Land & Water Conservation
Fund / US Secretary Jewell
Visits WNC (page 13)
• Why Are the Balds Bald?
(pages 14-15)
• 40th Anniversary Timeline
(pages 16-17)
• Appalachian Spring & June
Jamboree (pages 18-20)
• Upcoming Events
(page 21)
• For Love of Beer & Mountains
(page 22)
• Partnerships in Business
(pages 23-24)
• Legacy of Land & People
(page 25)
• Members’ Corner
(pages 26-27)
The mission
of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is to conserve the
unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland and scenic beauty of the mountains of
North Carolina and Tennessee for the benefit of present and future generations. We achieve
this by forging and maintaining long-term conservation relationships with private landowners
and public agencies, owning and managing land, and encouraging healthy local communities.
View from the Highlands | 3
L a n d P r o t e c t i o n | U P D AT E S
Map: The Big Rock Creek tract is located west of Hughes Gap near the AT.
Land for Loving Memories
lac
Appa
Big Rock
Creek Tract
Big Rock Creek
Highlands of Roan Focus Area
hian Trail
Formerly operated as a camp and retreat,
the Big Rock Creek tract adjoining the Pisgah
National Forest in Mitchell County, NC has been
imbued with love and memories for decades. We
purchased the high elevation 58-acre parcel in
the Highlands of Roan to permanently preserve
this cherished place west of Hughes Gap, just a
half mile south of the Appalachian Trail (AT).
Once occupied by TrailRidge Mountain
Camp and later Camp Pleiades, the tract
can be viewed from the AT south of
Hughes Gap and from Roan High Bluff
Coming off a TrailRidge backpacking trip in
the 1980s, Michael Andry was the leader.
TrailRidge Mountain Camp
“For two months I slept in a hammock
under a plastic tarp and showered
from a solar-heated water bag. We had
torrential rains and mud everywhere,
but it was wonderful.”
Former SAHC President Michael Andry
spent the summers of 1982 and ‘83 as a
counselor at TrailRidge Mountain Camp,
helping to build the camp’s trails and
facilities and guiding youth outdoors.
“We built the trail that connects to the
AT and particularly enjoyed the full
moon camping trips on Roan’s grassy
balds. For two summers, we had a grand
old time roaming over those mountains.
In fact, it was a major reason I moved to
the Asheville area. Hearing about SAHC’s
work in the Roan brought back a lot of
old memories, so I was happy to become
involved with the organization.”
4 | Autumn 2014
Landowners Jacque Allen and Barbara
Benisch, who operated Camp Pleiades
for eight years, reached out to SAHC to
preserve the land’s natural, recreational,
and cultural features.
“We loved the property for what it gave
us — friends, fun, great memories,
and summers in the mountains,” says
Allen. “When we decided to sell the
property we knew we wanted to protect
it from development, and that is when
we learned about SAHC. I am so glad
to know that the place we so loved will
always be taken care of and looked after
by a great group of caring people.”
The tract rises to 3,940 ft. elevation on
the north side, and four tributaries to
Big Rock Creek flow through it. Big
Rock Creek provides trout habitat
and is part of the North Toe River
watershed.
Fred and Alice Stanback made a
generous contribution which enabled
us to purchase the property. The owners
generously agreed to sell the tract to
SAHC below appraised market value.
“Preserving this remarkable property
in the shadow of Roan High Knob
will secure habitat and clean
headwater sources as well as recreation
opportunities for generations to come,”
said Executive Director Carl Silverstein.
We plan to manage the undeveloped
land for forest health, and maintain a
hiking trail through the property to the
adjoining Pisgah National Forest and
the AT. The spirit of education and
community that began with TrailRidge
Mountain Camp and carried forward
with Camp Pleiades will now be
honored by SAHC.
Rhododendron thicket on the Big Rock Creek tract.
L a n d P r o t e c t i o n | U P D AT E S
Feet on the Ground: Partners for Protecting the AT Corridor
“While working on this project, I hiked on the AT with our partners from the Cherokee
National Forest and Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Our mission – to locate the upper
boundary of the Rice Creek property and assess its visibility from the AT. There is no
substitute for hiking boots on the Trail when evaluating these issues! Adjacent to
the property boundary, the forest cover is mature and offers a relatively open view
into the property, confirming that any construction on the upper elevations would in
fact be visible from the Trail. We stopped to enjoy the view from the AT, with the Rice
Creek property prominent in the viewshed [photo below]. The trip was an excellent
opportunity for collaboration, as well as a fun day of hiking.”
— Michelle Pugliese, SAHC Land Protection Director
Rocky Fork
Standing on the Appalachian Trail, looking towards the Rice Creek tract: (L to R) Morgan Sommerville of the
Appalachian Trail Conservancy, SAHC’s AmeriCorps Associate Caitlin Edenfield, and Dave Ferguson and Scotty
Meyers with Cherokee National Forest.
l
Located barely 500’ from the AT, the beautifully wooded Rice
Creek tract has been a conservation priority for the US Forest
Service (USFS) and Appalachian Trail Conservancy for over 15 years.
We purchased the 77-acre property near Rocky Fork in Unicoi County
with the intent to later transfer it to the Cherokee National Forest.
With a top elevation of 4,300 ft., the tract
is visible from the AT north of Lick Rock
and around Sugarloaf Gap.
“This acquisition will provide permanent
protection for the AT corridor,” said Land
Protection Director Michelle Pugliese.
“When the landowner decided to sell
the tract, we were pleased to be able to
purchase it to preserve the
views and wilderness experience for
hikers along the Trail.”
The purchase also protects bird habitat
and a tributary of Rice Creek, which runs
along the southern tip of the property.
Fred and Alice Stanback made a generous
gift to enable SAHC to move quickly to
purchase the tract. SAHC will eventually
Tr a i
Appalachian Trail Focus Area
Rice Creek
Appalachian
Protecting the View from the AT
Rice Creek
Tract
Map: The Rice Creek tract is located 500 ft. from the
AT and adjacent to the Cherokee National Forest.
transfer the property to the Cherokee
National Forest. In the short term,
we will manage the undeveloped land for
forest health.
The view from the AT (Rice Creek tract in the foreground).
View from the Highlands | 5
L a n d P r o t e c t i o n | U P D AT E S
Protecting Prominent Ridges in Fairview
Camby Mtn.
Tract
er
ov
Dr
Black Mountains Focus Area
sR
oad
Camby Mountain
Sc
en
B
ic
ay
yw
Camby Mountain and other protected
tracts within the Fairview area.
Camby Mountain is near
1,830 acres of conservation
easements and fee simple
land held by SAHC,
Carolina Mountain Land
Conservancy, and the
Nature Conservancy,
including Hickory Nut Gap
Farm, Flying Cloud Farm,
Little Pisgah Mountain,
Blue Ridge Pastures, and
the Florence Preserve.
The connectivity afforded
by protecting Camby
Mountain at Smith Farms
so near other large tracts
supports diverse wildlife,
including black bear and
bobcat; smaller mammal
species such as red fox;
large birds such as wild
turkey, grouse, barred owl,
and red tailed hawk; small
song birds and neotropical
migratory birds; and
a variety of species of
amphibians and reptiles.
6 | Autumn 2014
Peeking above a pastoral setting of rolling hills,
panoramic mountain views surround the Drovers Road
Scenic Byway. In the western portion of Fairview,
Camby Mountain dominates the skyline.
Smith Farms Inc. partnered with SAHC
to protect scenic Camby Mountain from
subdivision and development. GD Smith,
President of Smith Farms Inc., and his
wife Janice Smith closed on a conservation
easement with SAHC on the 58-acre
mountainside above their farm in Fairview.
“The Smith family is doing a great thing
for Fairview by protecting scenic views
from the valley,” said Farmland Program
Director William Hamilton. “We are so
grateful to have a chance to work with
them and secure the view of Camby
Mountain from the byway.”
The property contains a prominent
ridgeline and mountain face highly
visible from Drovers Road Scenic
Byway US-74A as well as from other
public roadways and vantage points in
the community. The portion of the tract
protected by conservation easement
includes the upland, forested area rising
above Smith Farms.
“Protecting this ridgeline is an important
part of preserving the beloved mountain
landscape of Buncombe County along the
federally designated scenic byway
between Asheville and Chimney Rock
State Park,” added Hamilton.
Altogether, SAHC has conserved
approximately 1,500 acres in the
Fairview area.
“The Smiths’ foresight in protecting
Camby Mountain from subdivision and
development is a major step in securing
the scenic beauty and natural landscape
in southeast Buncombe County,” said
Executive Director Carl Silverstein.
This project was made possible by
a generous gift from Fred and Alice
Stanback; funding from the Federal Scenic
Byways program, Buncombe County, and
the Conservation Trust for NC; and the
generosity of the landowners.
Camby Mountain, viewed from the Drovers Road Scenic Byway. Conservation easement area outlined in red.
P r e s e r v i n g | FA R M L A N D
Remembering a Local Hero for Farmland Preservation
Bill Duckett
With a long family history rooted
in the Sandy Mush Community of
Buncombe County, Bill Duckett
was a well-respected farmer,
neighbor, and friend — and a true
hero for farmland preservation.
Bill Duckett
William Wayne Duckett, son of the
late William Fulmer and Vinnie
Wells Duckett, passed away in
July. A strong advocate of land
conservation, Bill had worked as a
cattle and tobacco farmer and loved
it every day.
“Bill Duckett was involved in land
conservation long before he knew
that such a thing as a land trust
existed,” recalls Farmland Program
Director William Hamilton, who
worked closely with Duckett over
the years. “However, the land trust
provided Bill with the means to
formally and permanently preserve
a part of his beloved landscape at a
time in his life when it made sense
for him to do so.”
Last year, Duckett completed the
preservation of 300 acres of his
family’s farm lands in the Sandy
Mush Community.
“When I think of Bill, I will
remember most his integrity, honor,
commitment, wisdom, and sense of
humor,” continues Hamilton.
“I know all of us that spent any time
with him carry Bill’s spirit with us.
I never really understood what
people meant when they would say
that the spirit of someone who had
passed away lived on inside others
that they knew. Now I understand
that. Bill rubbed off on all of us
that knew him and knew of him,
improving the shape of our lives.”
Duckett was a member of Big Sandy
United Methodist Church for over
30 years, and served his country as a
veteran of the U.S. Army.
He is survived by his wife, Mabel
Webb Duckett; sons, Steve Duckett
and wife Erin McCord Duckett,
and Kevin Duckett; sisters, Myrtle
Duckett and Amy Pratt; and
granddaughter, Jessica C. Duckett.
He will be deeply missed by many.
Bill Duckett, on his farm in Sandy Mush
Farmland Conservation
Grants Announced
We enjoy working with
local farmers to save natural
resources that provide our
communities with food
and livelihoods.
Although the process of
completing an agricultural
conservation easement can be
long and tedious, we love to
get great news along the way.
SAHC was awarded a $275,000
grant to preserve the 355±
acre Reeves Farms in Madison
County. This was the largest
grant awarded from the NC
Department of Agriculture
(NCDA) for the permanent
preservation of a farmland
tract in the state in 2014. It was
also the first NCDA Agricultural
Development & Farmland
Preservation Trust Fund grant
ever awarded for an agricultural
conservation easement in
Madison County.
This year, we were also awarded
$1,148,000 from the US. Dept
of Agriculture Federal Farm and
Ranchland Protection Program
to purchase agricultural
conservation easements on
450 acres of agricultural land
in Buncombe and Madison
counties. This includes the first
USDA-FRPP grant to ever be
awarded in Madison County.
We are currently in the process
of completing these projects,
which can take up to 5 years.
View from the Highlands | 7
O u r | C O M M U N I T Y FA R M
Community Farm and Food Project
A Walk on the Farm
Guests on the farm tour gather around a map of the Discovery Trail.
With a little humor, a lot of detail,
and an enthusiastic, jovial attitude,
Community Farm Assistant Yael Girard
led a hike along the 1.5-mile Discovery
Trail, elaborating on topics featured
on our interpretive signs and pointing
out newly installed livestock fencing,
the flourishing stream restoration area,
and recently
planted sprouts
from our
shortleaf pine
restoration
project.
As the group
crossed the
stream near
one of the riffle-pools — features
installed to promote aquatic life — Yael
commented that a naturalist, examining
aquatic organisms in the stream, had
been astounded by the rebound of
growth since restoration construction
finished last fall.
Yael pointed out details on
interpretive signs along the tour.
On Land Trust Day, we hosted a group of curious members,
landowners, and local families for a two-hour tour of our
Community Farm in Alexander, NC.
“You wouldn’t have expected to see
stream life at this extent so recently
after the construction was completed,
so it’s surprising as well as gratifying to
see it bounce back so well,” said Yael,
“We’ve already seen tadpoles, frogs, and
salamanders in the stream.”
The tour continued along a steep
portion of the trail through the shortleaf
pine restoration area, recently planted
with over 25,000 seedlings. When the
group paused to enjoy summer breezes
from a flat vantage point overlooking
the farm, Yael pointed out the offstream water tanks and new livestock
fencing, which create a safe and healthy
pasture for our Farmer Incubator
Program while keeping cattle, sheep, or
goats out of the restored stream.
closely, you can see large blue balls
floating at the top of the tanks. It’s easy
for livestock to push the balls down,
causing fresh water to flow up while
preventing insects and debris from
getting in. Many farmers also love these
tanks because in cold weather only a
thin coat of ice can form on top of the
ball. Livestock can easily break through
the thin ice, and it’s better than having a
solidly frozen tank!”
Thank you to all who joined us for the
first public Farm Tour. If you have not
yet visited, we invite you to do so as we
continue to offer events on the farm.
Hikers crossed the stream near one of the riffle-pools.
“We researched programs across the
country to find the best agricultural
management practices for the Farm,”
said Yael. “The watering tanks are
supplied from a well. If you look
Agricultural Equipment Demo | Wednesday, October 1 | 3 - 6 pm
SAHC will host a demonstration session at our Community Farm featuring equipment available for rent from the Buncombe
County Soil & Water District and Buncombe Cooperative Extension Service. Accessible for local farmers at a minimal cost,
this equipment can result in higher farm profits by increasing efficiency and land productivity.
Demo equipment will include: a GrassWorks Weed Wiper, which can be towed behind a tractor or all-terrain vehicle to ‘wipe’
herbicides selectively across pastures and hay fields without damaging the grass; a ShaverPost Driver to install fencing at
lower costs; a Raised Bed Mulch Layer, designed to make a raised bed, lay plastic mulch, and drip irrigation in one pass; and a
Water Wheel Transplanter, which can plant bare roots, pots or plugs and can carry up to 25 trays.
This event is free & open to the public, but registration is required. Please RSVP to the Buncombe County Cooperative
Extension office by contacting Meghan Baker, [email protected], or Ethan Henderson, [email protected].
8 | Autumn 2014
O u r | C O M M U N I T Y FA R M
Accepting Applicants
for the Incubator Farm
Community Farm Assistant Yael Girard checks on the thriving honey bee hive.
Still A’Buzzin — Our Bee Colony Survived!
Good news! Our rescued honeybees
made it through the winter - and when
Yael peeked inside this summer, she was
greeted by the low vibration of thousands
of tiny bodies beating in unison.
“The smell of wildflower honey, rich and
sweet, filled the air,” said Yael. “Lifting
off the propolis-covered lid of our
Community Farm beehive, I rejoiced to
see tiny bee bodies hard at work.”
Up close with some busy worker bees.
Last September, we had stumbled upon
a swarm of wild bees that had lost their
home, and we were able to successfully
hive them — with the understanding
that they might not make it through the
winter. Unfortunately, even experienced
beekeepers with established healthy
colonies are losing multiple hives each
year. This colony had lost its home, all
its honey and pollen stores, and all its
developing brood. The entire swarm was
no bigger than a volleyball when clustered
together.
“I talked with several beekeeping experts
in the area and they said our chances
weren’t great given all those factors,”
recalls Yael. “However, I knew the other
option was to let them attempt to survive
without assistance, and I wasn’t ready to
give up on them yet.”
Throughout the brutally cold winter she
fed the bees a sugar syrup mixture and
checked on them regularly. In the dead
of winter, the group was no bigger than a
softball. Each visit to the hive brought the
dread that upon lifting the lid we would
find it either deserted or full of dead bees.
“Then, on a spring day with temperatures
just over 60 degrees, I saw the first few
worker bees crawl outside, stretch their
wings in the sun, and begin the seasonal
search for flowers,” said Yael.
Since then, the bees have astounded us,
successfully filling three medium hive
bodies with
honey, pollen,
and brood.
These boxes
will be left for
the colony to
use through
the coming
winter.
The recovering colony proliferated over the summer.
We’ve made our 100-acre
Community Farm available to
serve budding agriculturalists
in our local community. New
and beginning farmers face
many obstacles in starting
agricultural businesses — the
most expensive often being
up-front costs for land and
farming equipment. As a way
to overcome this hurdle, our
Farmer Incubator Program
provides access to land and
equipment at a reduced rate.
We accept applications for the
program on a rolling basis.
For more information
about the Farmer Incubator
Program, contact Allison Kiehl
at [email protected] or
828.253.0095 ext 203.
Thank You!
We want to send out a huge
thank you to Eric, Kirsten, and
Twyla Corsaro for donating a new
barn to our Community Farm!
View from the Highlands | 9
C o n s e r v at i o n | I N A C T I O N
AmeriCorps Project Conserve
Raft Out the Trash!
Volunteers raft away after the work day.
Since protecting the Lost Cove tract in
2012, we have heard over and over how
much this special place resonates with
people. However, years of illegal use before
we acquired the tract left it littered with
trash — so, we commenced an ambitious
volunteer excursion to take care of it.
We recruited 24 volunteers to clean up
the debris. USA Raft generously offered
their services in partnership for the day,
replacing a strenuous trek out of the gorge
with an adventurous rafting trip after a
long and rewarding day of service.
Volunteers cleaned up debris around the site.
On the morning of the event, we met
a group of cheerful volunteers at USA
Raft’s outpost in Erwin Tennessee and
proceeded to the trail head for a threemile descent into Lost Cove.
It was seriously sad. Volunteers dividing
into two groups — one to pick up beer
cans, glass containers, and clothing littered
around the site and the other to tackle
10 | Autumn 2014
Where would we be without our volunteers and
amazing AmeriCorps Project Conserve members? Our
“Raft Out the Trash” reflects a stellar example of how
these team members’ incredible initiative, drive and
dedication help us achieve conservation success.
the more-than-knee-deep pit of garbage
filling one of the remaining historic
outbuildings. We gathered a hefty load
of bottles, cans, shards of glass, scraps of
plastic, aluminum foil, and even pots and
pans.
Despite the dirty work, we still felt pretty
fresh after filling our bags with garbage.
That’s when the real challenge hit us: How
were we going to carry the bags (each
containing around 100 lbs. of trash) down
about a mile of the steepest, rockiest
terrain to the meeting point with USA
Raft? In cases like this, a little ingenuity
goes a long way.
Henry, one of our volunteers, suggested
we tie the bags of trash onto sturdy
branches to help displace the weight on
our shoulders. Working in pairs, and
stopping along the way to take breaks
and check out some of the blooming
wildflowers, we finally reached the river.
Struggling with fatigue in the last portion
of our trek, our
group certainly
gained a greater
appreciation for the
folks who had once
inhabited the Lost
Cove settlement
and hiked goods
and supplies up that
steep trail!
Working in pairs to haul the trash out of Lost Cove.
After lunch the five rafts arrived. With
professional ease and an entertaining air,
the guides ushered our volunteers into
four of the rafts and helped load the 23
bags of trash onto the last one — and off
we went down the class three rapids!
We’d like to give a huge ‘Thank You’ to
USA Raft for safely transporting the trash
and volunteers down-river, and to all the
folks who pitched in!
Thank you to our volunteers for picking up
23 bags/1.15 tons of trash!
C o n s e r va t i o n
On the Roan wit
Field Journal
h M arquette Cro
ckett,
Highlands of Roa
n Stewardship Dir
ector
During the ice age, abou
t 20,000 years ago, spru
ce and fir dominated th
e Southern
Appalachian forest. As
the climate warmed, th
e spruce-fir forests grad
ually retreated north to
Canada, eventually re
maining only on the to
ps of the highest mount
ains. Along with red sp
ruce
and fir, other unusual
plants and animals wer
e isolated in the cool, Ca
nada-like climate.
Can you guess where am
Chris Coxen
I talking about - the Ro
an Highlands or Cana
an Valley, WV?
In all honesty, it could
be either. This spring, as
I’ve walked around the
Roan, listening to Alde
r
Flycatchers and steppin
g through mountain
oatgrass and star moss,
I’ve been amazed
at how two places, near
ly 400 miles apart,
could feel so alike. In fa
ct, there are so many
similarities between th
e place where I spent
8 wonderful years as a
wildlife biologist and
the place where I hope
to spend the rest of
Red spruce and yellow bir
ch in Canaan Valley, We
st Virginia.
my career that I though
Photo courtesy of Kent Ma
t it would be fun to writ
son.
e about both!
The Roan Highlands an
d Canaan Valley are am
ong the coldest places in
Appalachia.
Whether it’s from bein
g very high elevation (in
the case of Roan) or a
combination of high
elevation and latitude
(in the case of Canaan
), these are places that
people use for referenc
e when
they need to talk abou
t fog or snow or wind places that with their ha
rshness and beauty hu
mble
you into remembering
that you’re only a tiny
human, after all.
View from the Highlands | 11
pport ancient boreal
su
n
aa
an
C
d
an
ds
an
Both the Roan Highl
create some of the
to
d
te
ap
ad
ve
ha
ch
hi
plants and animals w
These
ystems in Appalachia.
os
ec
ul
tif
au
be
d
an
most fragile
tailored
and yet each has been
r,
ila
sim
y
bl
ka
ar
m
re
systems are
thern
e, while Carolina Nor
pl
am
ex
r
Fo
s.
on
iti
Squirrel
by local cond
Virginia Northern Flying
to high
ins, both are confined
us
co
a
ni
gi
ir
V
r
ei
th
an
und a bit different th
flying squirrels may so
cher find
row and Alder Flycat
ar
Sp
er
sp
Ve
l,
w
O
t
w-whe
Rare birds like the Sa
elevation spruce-fir.
aces.
strongholds in both pl
es on
g a small group of plac
on
am
d
te
lis
e
ar
y
lle
and Canaan Va
The Roan Highlands
nd, it
l limits. On the one ha
ra
tu
na
r
ei
th
of
e”
dg
“e
uly ecosystems on the
our planet that are tr
diseases
ate change, emerging
m
cli
e
lik
s
at
re
th
te
ia
med
es face serious and im
ve
means that these plac
ow these ecosystems ha
eh
m
so
at
th
ns
ea
m
it
other,
development. On the
and pests, and rapid
ld
nditions and may ho
co
l
ea
id
an
th
ss
le
in
ennia
d survive through mill
aces
managed to adapt an
om these high, cold pl
fr
n
ar
le
e
w
n
ca
t
ha
ats. W
about adapting to thre
valuable information
them?
e go about protecting
w
do
ow
H
s?
ge
an
ch
as our world
ve a
and Canaan Valley ha
ds
an
hl
ig
H
an
Ro
e
th
r sure is that both
One thing I can say fo
auty,
erving their history, be
es
pr
to
d
te
ca
di
de
le
peop
s them — a group of
es.
community who love
these remarkable plac
of
th
bo
of
re
tu
fu
e
th
pe for
fact gives me great ho
th
and ecosystems. That
SAHC and Happy 20
at
ily
m
fa
w
ne
y
m
to
py 40th Anniversary
I’d like to wish a Hap
ul to be able to work
ef
at
gr
y
ul
tr
am
I
R!
lley NW
d friends at Canaan Va
ol
y
m
to
ry
sa
er
iv
nn
A
.
ble places in the world
ka
ar
m
re
t
os
m
e
th
of
some
with you to conserve
12 | Autumn 2014
C o n s e r v at i o n | I N A C T I O N
Land and Water Conservation Fund
Rallying Support
How Does the Land &
Water Conservation
Fund work?
The LWCF was first signed into law
fifty years ago – on September,
On Wednesday, August 6, the US
3, 1964. The bill authorized
Department of the Interior Secretary
Congress to receive royalties from
Sally Jewell and US Senator Richard Burr
companies drilling for gas and oil
visited WNC to hike the Appalachian
from the Outer Continental Shelf.
Trail (AT) across our flagship focus area,
The underlying idea was that if
the Highlands of Roan. Their visit was
the companies extracted natural
part of a four-day tour across the nation
resources from publicly owned lands
of the United States, they should
to rally support for bipartisan legislation
compensate by providing for the
re-authorizing the Land & Water
conservation of precious resources
Conservation Fund (LWCF).
elsewhere in the nation.
US Dept. of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell
& Senator Richard Burr in the Highlands of Roan.
hunted, fished, camped, hiked, biked, climbed,
A bipartisan bill created and
Photo courtesy Tom Cors, The Nature Conservancy
skied, paddled and engaged in numerous other authorized the LWCF to receive
outdoor recreation activities in 2013.
funds annually from these offshore
During their joint visit, Secretary Jewell and
resource extraction royalties —
Senator Burr took a hiking trip along the AT
“Getting this legislation passed requires public
which means the LWCF is not funded
to view some of the priority conservation
pressure,” added Burr. “The LWCF
by taxpayer money. The LWCF can
properties protected (and in need of protection) is seed money that leverages private donations
provide for the preservation of local
along the trail. To date, LWCF has helped
to save places in the Great Smoky Mountains
and state parks, historic battlefields,
protect nearly 200,000 acres of the highest
and along the Blue Ridge Parkway and AT.
and national forest lands — a
valued lands within the AT corridor.
We have to educate our colleagues about the
variety of places across the country
importance of the LWCF.”
“We are here to make the case for full funding
that support healthy communities
for the LWCF,” said Jewell later in a press
For 50 years, LWCF investments have protected and economic activity.
conference at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor
parks and natural areas and funded the
The LWCF funds can be used by
Center near Asheville, NC. “We recognize
development of playgrounds, sports fields,
federal land management agencies
that recreation and tourism are legitimate,
bike paths and hiking trails. Estimates show
(such as the US Forest Service
important parts of the economy of North
that $3 billion awarded to states over the years
and National Park Service) to
Carolina. Parks bring a lot of people into
has leveraged some $7 billion in non-federal
purchase properties or conservation
this state, so support for the LWCF is a good
matching funds.
easements from willing landowners.
economic decision.”
Secretary Jewell (right) talks with NC philanthropist Fred
LWCF’s State and Local Assistance
Stanback as the hiking group sets out from Carvers Gap.
Program provides matching
The outdoor industry is one of the healthiest
Photo courtesy Tom Cors, The Nature Conservancy
grants to state, local and tribal
sectors of our nation’s economy, but it depends
governments to create and expand
on access to quality parks and public lands to
parks and recreation facilities.
thrive. Public lands are key to local recreation
The Forest Legacy Program provides
and tourism industries, as visitors to these
grants to states to permanently
areas spend money on food, lodging and
protect forested properties through
equipment. According to the Outdoor Industry
conservation easements or
Foundation’s 2014 Outdoor Recreation
outright purchases.
Participation Report, 142.6 million Americans
View from the Highlands | 13
C o n s e r v at i o n | I N A C T I O N
Pondering the Mystery of the Roan:
Panoramic view of Yellow Mountain Bald in the Highlands of Roan
Why are the Balds Bald?
Why are Round Bald and Grassy Ridge open grasslands when Roan Mountain is covered with dense spruce-fir forest?
Why does the Roan feature expanses of high elevation grassy balds instead of northern hardwoods and conifers?
If there is no tree line, where are the trees? In short – there should be trees. Local climate determines where a tree line
falls on a mountain. The climate at the Roan’s highest peaks, though often inhospitable, is temperate enough to support
forests. The answer to the balds origin question still lies in climate, albeit conditions millions of years ago.
Geologic time is measured in epochs.
We are currently in the Holocene
epoch, which started about 11,000
years ago. Before that, Earth was
in the Pleistocene epoch, which
started about 2.5 million years ago.
When we refer to the “ice age,”
we are technically referring to the
Pleistocene. This was a period of
glacial growth and retreat across the
world.
We know that the Southern
Appalachians were never glaciated. As
giant ice sheets slowly grew south to
their furthest extent around present
day Illinois, northern plant and
animal species retreated until they
found refuge in the coves, mountain
sides, and peaks of the Southern
Appalachians. These flora and fauna
naturally organized themselves across
elevational gradients. Spruce-fir forest
is more at home in Maine than North
Carolina, but our highest peaks offer
a microclimate that supports these
cold-weather forests. This is why this
region is so biodiverse — we have
Like megaherbivores of ages past, cattle herds graze Yellow Mountain and keep the grassy bald open.
14 | Autumn 2014
northern relicts that mixed with
existing species during this historic
migration away from ancient ice
sheets. But what about the balds?
The compelling theory developed by
Peter Weigl, Research Professor of
Biology at Wake Forest University,
and Travis Knowles, Associate
Professor of Biology at Francis
Marion University, proposes that the
Pleistocene climate was cold enough
to turn our highest elevations into
tundra-like ecosystems. They believe
that grassy balds first formed under
these extreme conditions, too severe
for trees to grow along this region’s
mountain tops. Once these high
elevation grasslands were in place,
cold adapted mammals maintained
and further engineered the grassy
bald ecosystem, similar to how
elephants currently act as a keystone
species in African savannahs.
C o n s e r v at i o n | I N A C T I O N
The Pleistocene featured wild creatures
seemingly dreamt from our imaginations
– animals like mammoths, mastodons,
and giant sloths, which biologists
collectively refer to as megaherbivores.
These animals browsed and grazed
their way across the balds, and naturally
promoted the faster regenerating grasses,
sedges, and forbs that compose grassy
bald ecosystems.
Weigl and Knowles call this interaction
the ‘climate-herbivore theory.’ Bald
conditions were first created through
climate and then shaped and maintained
over time by herbivores. Once
megaherbivores disappeared from the
landscape, this maintenance role was
filled by vast herds of buffalo and elk.
After European settlers overhunted
and eliminated the buffalo and elk,
they grazed cattle and sheep. The Roan
balds were likely at their greatest extent
during the megaherbivore period, and
have gradually shrunk over time as
smaller mammals replaced their larger
predecessors. Weigl and Knowles posit
that grassy balds have been around for
hundreds of thousands of years because
of this climate-herbivore relationship.
Current climactic conditions dictate
that grassy balds should naturally
grow into forest, a process called forest
Much of the
Roan is no
longer grazed,
and the unique
species found
here depend
on mowing
by human
volunteers to
keep the grassy
balds open.
succession. Grazing has effectively frozen
forest succession in place, maintaining
patches of open grasslands in what is
an otherwise forested landscape. This
begs the question – if much of the Roan
is no longer grazed, how are the balds
maintained today?
Most of the balds are currently being
mechanically managed through hand
and machine mowing. Manually cutting
back woody plants, like grazing, keeps
forest succession in check, but it is a
Sisyphean task.
The most sustainable and natural
long term balds maintenance solution
is the return of extensive grazing to
the mountain. While SAHC and our
partners continue to work toward the
return of grazers to the Roan Highlands,
mechanical mowing may be the best stop
gap technique we have to keep the Roan’s
grassy balds from disappearing.
SAHC’s decades long
habitat management
program relies
on volunteers to
contribute their labor.
They wield hand saws
and lopping shears that
protect Roan’s globally
imperiled grassy balds
one cut at a time.
Without our continued
volunteer-based
efforts, the living
mystery of these
unique ecosystems
would be lost. The
grasses and sedges
now swaying across the
Roan Highlands would
slowly disappear, like
the mammoths that
once roamed across the
mountains.
Grassy Balds Management - Making a Difference!
We’re sad to report that this summer the Grassy Ridge Mow-off was cancelled for the first time in 20 years.
Volunteers made a valiant effort, but torrential rains and wind made the trip unsafe. Luckily, all of our other
balds management crews including the NC BRIDGE crew and the Roany Boyz stepped up to the plate and
helped us hand mow more than 20 acres of grassy balds! Many thanks!
View from the Highlands | 15
4 0 t h | A N N I V E R S A RY
As we celebrate our 40th Anniversary this year, it is a wonderful time to look back over how much we have accomplished in the
past four decades — and to look forward with excitement for our next forty years! Here are just a few highlights to remember:
Stan Murray formed the
Roan Mountain Preservation
Committee (RMPC) as a
committee of the Appalachian
Trail Conservancy with
the purpose of preserving
the unique and natural
environment along this
17-mile section of the AT and
maintaining a continuous
right of way for the Trail.
The first meeting of the
Stan Murray
Roan Mountain Preservation
Committee was held at the home of Hugh Thompson
in Johnson City, TN on November 11, 1966.
1966
RMPC is formed.
1982
SAHC assisted the
US Forest Service purchase
of Hump Mtn tract.
1974
SAHC is incorporated.
1986
SAHC purchases Hampton
Creek Cove.
In 1986, we
purchased
the 693-acre
Hampton Creek
Cove from the
Robertson family,
then transferred
the property
to the State of
Tennessee for inclusion in its system of State Natural
Areas. We continue to manage this working farm
(the only working farm in a state natural area), which
includes excellent bird habitat as well as a section of
the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail.
16 | Autumn 2014
The Beech Mountain resort development had once been
proposed for Hump Mountain in the Highlands of Roan,
but landowner Oscar Julian would not sell. Years later,
Julian honored his commitment to preserve the land.
SAHC assisted the US Forest Service in the acquisition of
his 1,387-acre tract on Hump Mountain in 1982.
1991
SAHC expands regional focus
to include areas outside the
Highlands of Roan to live up
to its name.
1994
We adopt current Bylaws and
the national Land Trust Alliance
Standards and Practices.
1992
SAHC accepts first
conservation easement:
Hemphill Bald at
Cataloochee Ranch.
2000
SAHC purchases
302-acre tract on
Grassy Ridge, Mitchell
County NC.
In 1992, SAHC accepted its first conservation
easement: 220 acres on Hemphill Bald at
Cataloochee Ranch in Haywood County, NC.
We have now accomplished 130 conservation
easement projects.
4 0 t h | A N N I V E R S A RY
Recognizing that local farmland is being lost
to development at a rapid rate, in 2005 SAHC
created a Farmland Program to assist farmers
in preserving vital agricultural resources for the
continued production of local and sustainably
grown food.
2004
We purchase the popular Deep
Gap camping spot on the Black
Mountains Crest trail near Mt.
Mitchell, and transfer it to the
US Forest Service for permanent
protection.
Also in 2004, SAHC hosts its
first Americorps Program
Project Conserve Associates,
a program that has
continued to add energy and
capacity to our work these
past ten years.
We received the
gift of the 100-acre
Community Farm
in 2010, and since
that time we have
initiated ambitious
projects to carry
conservation forward
into the future. Our
model farm projects
demonstrate that
productive agriculture
and a healthy environment can go hand-in-hand
— such as stream restoration and agricultural best
management practices that protect local waterways.
Our Farmer Incubator Program offers land access for
beginning farmers.
2005
We initiate the Farmland Program.
2006
In 2006, SAHC and partners
embarked on a six-year
endeavor to purchase the
Rocky Fork wilderness along
the TN/NC border.
Once identified as a
potential development
site, the 10,000-acre
Rocky Fork Wilderness
tract contains 16 miles of
blue ribbon trout streams,
including habitat for
native brook trout, as well
as a portion of the AT. It
has been designated for
TN’s next state park.
2010
Marie Anderson donates a
100-acre farm in the Alexander
Community of NC to SAHC.
Also in 2010, We become
accredited by the national
Land Trust Accreditation
Commission.
2014
Celebrating
40 Years of
Conservation!
2012
We purchase the 601-acre Grassy
Ridge tract, surpassing 50,000
protected acres.
Because of its high elevation and location
near/adjoining the AT and other conservation
lands, this 601-acre tract on Grassy Ridge tract
in Avery County, NC had been a conservation
priority since SAHC’s beginnings. We were finally
able to purchase the tract in 2012.
View from the Highlands | 17
4 0 t h | A N N I V E R S A RY
Annual Member Event & Celebration
Appalachian Spring
Thank you to all who made our event possible!
Thank you to all the friends, members, volunteers, donors, and event
sponsors who made our Appalachian Spring 40th Anniversary event
such a success! We enjoyed a night of fun and fellowship, honoring
our members and volunteers for the vision and passion which have
led to an inspiring forty years of conservation.
We are sincerely grateful to Highland Brewing
Company for generously donating the venue space
as well as beverages for the event. We would also
like to give a special ‘thank you’ to Nona Mia
Italian Kitchen for preparing the delicious buffet
dinner enjoyed by all, and for graciously donating
half of the catering expense. Guests enjoyed
entertainment by the Fire Cracker Jazz Band and a
fun-filled photo booth experience provided by NC
PhotoBox.
Carolyn Novak and Don Johnson
During the mid-evening program, Executive
Director Carl Silverstein’s remarks gave us
perspective and pride in SAHC’s accomplishments.
Appalachian Spring – fun for all ages
Florence Krupnick, Buddy Tignor, Bill Lowndes, and
Sonya Rodriguez
SAHC staff, keeping it lively in the photo booth
Carl’s mid-evening remarks on our
inspirational record of success
Helping guests with SAHC merchandise
We are very grateful for the support of our event sponsors:
Grove Arcade | Webb Investment Services | White Oak Financial Management Inc
18 | Autumn 2014
4 0 t h | A N N I V E R S A RY
We elected Rick Manske and Laura McCue to join the SAHC Board of
Trustees, and Bill Lowndes, Kathy Singleton, Courtney Blossman,
and Jack Hamilton were elected to serve their second consecutive
terms on the Board.
Laura McCue
Laura has
served
previously
as a Trustee
from 2003–9,
including
terms as
Secretary and Treasurer. She
brings SAHC expertise in finance
and investing; strong personal
ties among our membership and
donors; and bountiful enthusiasm
for hard work on SAHC’s behalf.
She has advanced our strategy
for long-term investing and
endowments and continued to
serve on our Finance Committee.
Laura is President of White Oak
Financial Management, Inc.
Rick
Manske
Rick and
his wife
Rebecca live
in Weaverville
and have been
generous supporters of SAHC
for several years. Rick serves
as managing partner of Parsec
Financial, a wealth management
firm in Asheville that works
with SAHC and has generously
supported our efforts. Rick is
enthusiastic about SAHC’s land
conservation and stewardship
mission, and will bring valuable
finance talent to our board.
Jeanette Blazier (left) accepts an award for her service.
We also recognized retiring Trustees,
Jeanette Blazier and Bruce Cunningham.
Jeanette served as Board of Trustees
President and chaired the Governance
Committee; worked tirelessly to cultivate,
recruit & orient outstanding Trustees; and
was instrumental in SAHC strategic planning.
Bruce served as Treasurer and on the Finance
Committee; led development of SAHC’s
Investment Policy and investing decisions;
and was also instrumental in SAHC strategic
planning. Thank you both for your service!
2014 Stanley A. Murray Award for Volunteer Services
We presented David and Otto Smith with engraved
pocket knives in recognition of their volunteer work.
In 1989, this award was created to honor persons who have made outstanding
volunteer contributions to the work of SAHC, emulating the lifelong dedication
of our founder, Stanley A. Murray.
Our Stanley A. Murray Award for Volunteer Services this year went to a father and
son team — David Smith and his son Otto. David was introduced to SAHC as the
Seasonal Ecologist in 1997 and since then has been a volunteer leader in many
different capacities.
For the past 17 years, David has participated in the annual Grassy Ridge Mow-Off
and led guided hikes at the annual June Jamboree. David’s son Otto has recently
joined him in volunteer adventures in the Roan. For the past three years Otto
has worked along side David at the Mow-Off, lopping and pulling brush to help
conserve this globally imperiled habitat. Congratulations to David and Otto!
View from the Highlands | 19
Events | OUTREACH
Become a Part of SAHC!
Enjoy free guided hikes & member discounts
Name
Address
City/State/Zip
Phone
E-mail
Annual Membership Level:
Family $50 __ Single $35__ Organization $100 ____
Additional donation $________
___ Please send me information about planned/
estate giving and other ways to support SAHC.
___ Please make my gift anonymous.
G i f t s • Tr i b u t e s • M e m o r i a l s
I’d like to make this contribution
__ A gift membership for __ In honor of __ In memory of
Person to recognize (gift recipient or honoree):
Send dedication or gift acknowledgment to:
Address:
E-mail:
Challenge Hikers on the AT head toward Little Hump Mountain
Full Day of Hikes in the Highl ands of Roan
June Jamboree
The mountains may be ancient, but the views from the Roan never get old. This
year, we enjoyed beautiful weather for another full day of guided group hikes,
hosting around 50 participants for our annual June Jamboree. The Challenge
Hike crew set out early for their 12-mile trek along the AT, starting at 19E and
climbing to the top of Hump Mountain (5,587 ft elevation), then on to Little
Hump, the Stan Murray shelter, and down to our National Trails Tract where
refreshments awaited at the post-hike social. Elsewhere on the mountainside,
young explorers enjoyed hunting for aquatic life in Elk Hollow Branch and
Roaring Creek, while yogis of all experience levels stretched in the sun. Our Roll
N’ Stroll in the Rhododendron Gardens and Carvers Gap to Grassy Ridge were
well-attended, too. Thank you to all who came out to enjoy hiking the Roan!
Yoga on the Mountain
Kids in the Creek
Monthly Giving
Our monthly giving program is an easy way to
support our work! Choose an amount that makes
sense for your budget, and become one of our
growing family of sustaining members.
___ Please enroll me in monthly
giving at $_______ per month
Baby’s First Trip to the Roan
Name as it appears on the card:
Credit Card #:
3-digit security code:
Expires:
Make your gift online at Appalachian.org or fill out & mail
this form to: SAHC, 34 Wall Street, Suite 502, Asheville, NC
28801. Donations & annual membership dues are tax deductible.
Financial information about the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing
Branch at (919) 733-4510. The license is not an endorsement by the state.
20 | Autumn 2014
Donor Relations Manager
Pauline Heyne with her family.
“The Roll N Stroll hike was the perfect hike
for our new family. We enjoyed seeing
the rhododendron blooms and meeting
SAHC members. One fellow hiker had been
attending June Jamborees since the 80s.
I’m thrilled to know that the acres we have
preserved on the Roan will be protected
forever, and when Paxson is older he will
enjoy the same incredible views.”
Enjoy the View!
Events | OUTREACH
Upcoming Hikes & Events
Many Moods of McCartney
All4Asheville Benefit Concert
Calendar
Date: Saturday, September 27 Time: 7:30 PM
Where: Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, in Asheville, NC
The Many Moods of McCartney will present the classical music of
Sir Paul McCartney along with several of his classic pop tunes that
have been a part of the soundscape of all our lives. The Asheville
Symphony Orchestra and world renowned artists will perform
together in this gala concert benefitting four Asheville charities:
SAHC, Manna Food Bank, the Asheville City Schools Foundation,
and the Asheville Symphony Orchestra.
With Performances by: The Asheville Symphony Orchestra and artists Roger Kellaway, Peter
Beets, Little Anthony, Bobby Caldwell, Franke Previte, Lisa Sherman, Yongmei Hu, Samantha
Landrum, and Emily West. Tickets available now at aso927.com
September 20
“For Love of Beer
& Mountains”
Clawhammer Hike
September 27
Many Moods
of McCartney,
All4Asheville Benefit
Concert
October 1
Agricultural Equipment
Demo at Our
Community Farm
October 11
“For Love of Beer
& Mountains”
Thunderstruck Hike
Yoga on the Mountain
Date: Saturday, Oct. 18 Time: 10:00 AM
Where: Blue Ridge Pastures in the
Fairview Farming Community
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Led by Kim Drye of Here Now Yoga, we
will hike to the top of Blue Ridge Pastures,
lay down yoga mats, and practice our sun
salutations (among many other poses) while
enjoying views of Bearwallow Mountain and
Hickory Nut Gap Gorge. You don’t need to
have any prior yoga experience — but please
bring sturdy shoes for hiking, a blanket, yoga
mat, comfortable clothes for yoga, water,
sunscreen, and a pack to carry all personal
items. This hike is free for members or
$10 for non-members.
Snowball Mountain Hike
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25 Time: 10:00 AM
Where: Off the Blue Ridge Parkway near
Craggy Gardens
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
This moderate 3-mile hike will climb along
a high elevation ridgeline with remarkable
views. We will start out on the Mountainsto-Sea Trail and split off to climb Snowball
Mountain. Continuing north to Hawkbill Rock,
we will enjoy spectacular views of the Snowball
Mountain tract and Woodfin Watershed —
both SAHC-protected landmarks. Hikers
should be prepared for a short trip, but steep
elevation changes along the way. Learn about
our conservation work in this spectacular area
of the Black Mountain range.
For all hikes, direct questions and registrations to Kana Miller, SAHC PR & Outreach
AmeriCorps Associate, at 828-253-0095 x 205 or [email protected].
October 17
“For Love of Beer
& Mountains”
Thunderstruck Release
October 18
Yoga on the Mountain
October 25
Nature Valley/National
Park Conservation
Association Volunteer
Work Day on Roan
October 25
Snowball Mountain Hike
Get the most current
info about our upcoming
hikes & events online at
Appalachian.org
View from the Highlands | 21
Pa r t n e r s h i p s | B U S I N E S S C O M M U N I T Y
“For Love of Beer & Mountains”
Upcoming “For Love of Beer &
Mountains” Partnership Events
Elevation Ale
Free for everyone, but registration is required for hikes.
Clawhammer Mountain Hike
Date: Sat., Sept. 20 Time: 10:00 AM
Where: Pisgah National Forest
Difficulty: Very Strenuous
The hike to Clawhammer Mountain
will be a long and strenuous 9+ mile
trip along multi-use trails that traverse
mountain bike, equestrian and hiking
trails as well as forest service roads and a
gravel road. We will climb close to 1,500
feet to reach the summit of Clawhammer
Mountain at 4,072 feet in elevation,
enjoying scenic views of the Blue Ridge
Parkway and the Pisgah National Forest.
There are single log bridges, muddy areas,
rocky & steep inclines and yellow jackets;
SAHC wants to provide a fun and safe trip
so please be aware of these conditions.
Thunderstruck/Blackrock
Mountain Hike
Date: Sat., Oct. 11 Time: 10:00 AM
Where: Off the Blue Ridge Parkway
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Enjoy views of Thunderstruck Ridge, for
which Highland’s Thunderstruck Coffee
Porter is named. We will travel over 5 miles
of rugged terrain, through red spruce
and fraser firs, red oak forest, and other
high elevation trees while occasionally
stopping at rock outcroppings for views
of Thunderstruck Ridge. The group will
hike through the 1,595-acre Plott Balsam
Preserve and eventually reach Blackrock
Ridge at a towering 5,600 feet of elevation.
Thunderstruck Release Party
Date: Fri., Oct. 17 Time: 4-9 PM
Where: Highland Brewing Company
Free live music (TBA) and $1 from each
pint sold will be donated to SAHC.
22 | Autumn 2014
Associate Director Kristy Urquhart
and Drew Stevenson of Highland
Brewing help brew Elevation Ale
In honor of our 40th Anniversary and as
part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains”
Partnership, Highland Brewing Company
crafted a special small batch beer dubbed
Elevation Ale. Select local venues offered
the limited ale around Asheville, donating a
percentage of sales to SAHC and helping to
raise awareness for our work.
A few SAHC staff and Trustees were
even invited into the pilot room to
assist with the brewing. In addition
to learning about the beer-making
process (and the fact that 90% of
it is cleaning!), we helped with
milling the malt, stirring the mash,
pouring in the hops and honey, and
steeping the bags of local spruce
tips, which had been collected from
SAHC-protected tracts. We very
much enjoyed working alongside the
welcoming Highland Brewing staff.
Elevation Ale was released at our
Appalachian Spring event and then
made available by a few local venues.
We send a huge ‘Thank You’ to
Highland Brewing Company for
creating this opportunity, and to
Nona Mia Italian Restaurant, King
Daddy’s Chicken & Waffles, the
WXYZ bar at Aloft Downtown
Asheville, Asheville Growler,
Westville Pub, Wayside Village, and
Creekside Taphouse for donating a
portion of proceeds from the sale of
Elevation Ale to SAHC.
We appreciate your support!
Charles pouring Elevation Ale at Nona Mia
Italian Kitchen
About the “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership
Highland Brewing Company
(HBC) has partnered with the
Southern Appalachian Highlands
Conservancy and the U.S. Fish
& Wildlife Service to help raise
awareness of the beauty and uniqueness of our region’s resources and bring attention to efforts to
protect them. HBC names each seasonal release for a feature of our natural landscape.
Pa r t n e r s h i p s | B U S I N E S S C O M M U N I T Y
1% for the Planet
Robbie McLucas
Robbie McLucas donates to SAHC
through 1% for the Planet.
“The Highlands of Roan, the Black Balsams, the
Seven Sisters, the Blue Ridge. The Appalachian
Mountains played an important role in shaping
the person I am today. They helped me to see
the bigger picture of the impact our actions have
on the planet. They’re why I volunteer my time
with SAHC, and why 1% for the Planet makes
my annual gift to SAHC much more purposeful.
As a real estate broker in Asheville, NC, every day I see the
vibrancy of my local economy, which is built upon small
businesses, agriculture, artists, tourism and outdoor recreation.
When I saw that my gift would stay in my local community,
I became a 1% for the Planet member and part of the solution to
preserve lands vital to my community for future generations.
I wanted to demonstrate publicly my commitment to
conservation and SAHC, and I wanted to recognize their sterling
track record of preserving the pristine places in and around the area I call home.
By including the 1% for the Planet logo in my email signature
and on all of my marketing materials, I hope to help other
people become aware of the opportunities to support local
organizations. People immediately see that I value something…
that I have a passion for conservation-minded work.
I hope that I will inspire others, especially small business
owners, to do the same. It is one thing to say you’re committed;
it something else to be accountable to that commitment.”
His own passion for the outdoors fuels
Robbie’s support for conservation.
Robbie McLucas
SAHC supporter and volunteer
What is 1% for the
Planet?
1% for the Planet is a global
program whose mission is to
build, support and activate
an alliance of businesses
financially committed to
creating a healthy planet.
Businesses in the program
pledge to contribute at
least 1% of annual sales
to the charity of their
choice. 1% for the Planet
oversees each member’s
commitment to give to an
approved conservation
organization. Identification
with the program helps
environmentally-conscious
consumers vote with their
dollars.
To find out more or
to support SAHC as a
recognized participant in
1% for the Planet, search
for us under the nonprofit
directory online at
OnePercentforthePlanet.org.
Have You Heard About Our Real Estate Partner Program?
The places we protect have helped make our area an attractive place to live. In recognition of that fact, and in
order to help promote healthy communities, we invite local real estate agents to partner with SAHC by providing
gift memberships as closing gifts to new clients. Recipients will enjoy free guided hikes for a year and learn more
about our unique mountain home. For more information about our Real Estate Partner Program, including
benefits and registration, contact Cheryl Fowler at 828.253.0095 ext 209 or [email protected].
View from the Highlands | 23
Pa r t n e r s h i p s | B U S I N E S S C O M M U N I T Y
We thank the following corporate partners
for their support and invite you to join them.
Contact Cheryl at [email protected]
or 828.253.0095 x 209 for more info.
Our Corporate Partners:
Mt. Mitchell Partners:
(elevation 6,684 ft.) - $25,000+
See your name here!
Waterrock Knob Partners:
(elevation 6,292 ft.) - $15,000+
Altamont Environmental, Inc
Highland Brewing Company
New Morning Ltd, including:
Bellagio Art to Wear
Bellagio Everyday
Blue Spiral 1 Gallery
Fine Arts Theatre
New Morning Gallery
Salesforce
Roan Mountain Partners:
(elevation 6,285 ft.) - $10,000+
Mast General Store
Cold Mountain Partners:
(elevation 6,030 ft.) - $5,000+
New Belgium Brewing Co.
Big Yellow Partners:
(elevation 5,480 ft.) - $2,500+
Equinox Environmental
First Citizens Bank
Friends at Jubilee! Community
Kee Mapping & Surveying
Strader Fencing, Inc.
Max Patch Partners:
(elevation 4,629 ft.) - $1,000+
Carolina Tree Care
Eastman Credit Union
Keith Hargrove Architect PC
Network Computer Solutions
Parsec Financial Management
Roberts & Stevens,
Attorneys at Law
Samsel Architects
Wells Fargo
24 | Autumn 2014
Welcome, New Business Members
Thank you for becoming new business supporters! Many of the following
contributed items for our Appalachian Spring raffle, which helps raise
funds for our conservation work.
131 Main Restaurant
Ajax Distributing Co., Inc.
Aloft Hotel
Barnes & Noble
Blossoms & Baggie Goose
Brixx Restaurant
BT’s Burgerjoint
Chargrow
Chestnut Restaurant
Cold Stone Creamery
Comer Distributing, Inc.
Environmental Banc &
Exchange
Exit Realty Vistas
Greenco Beverage Co., Inc.
Grovewood Gallery
Hilton Biltmore Park
Jane Voorhees, Artist
Joni Artisanal Wine & Beer
Kendrick & Associates
King Daddy
Chicken & Waffles
Lavender Fields
Maison de beaute
Mobilia
MR Gardens
Appalachian Spring guests were able to choose from a wide array of
prizes, thanks to the generosity of our raffle item donors.
Natural Foods Market
Nest Organics
Nirvana Creations
O.P. Taylor’s Toy Store
Organic Mechanic
Orvis Outfitters
Posana Café
Regal Biltmore Grand
Robert O’Sheeran, Artist
Ryan Bumgarner
Photography
Spiritex
Spotted Dog Farm
Wild Birds Unlimited
Sunny Point Café
The Eye Center
The Organic Mechanic
The Village Wayside
TN Assoc. of PlumbingHeating-Cooling
Contractors
Travinia Italian Kitchen
Which Wich Superior
Sandwiches
Wm. R. Hill & Co. Inc.
Thank You for Supporting us on Land Trust Day!
ART TO WEAR
(Asheville & Waynesville locations)
We want to give a huge
thank you to these
businesses for donating
a portion of the day’s
sales to SAHC for Land
Trust Day in June. We
raised $14,000 for land
& water conservation
this year through this
collaboration!
Legacy | L AND & PEOPLE
From the Mountains to the Sea
A Gift for Future Generations
Everett Bowman has long been passionate about the
outdoors, especially canoeing the Ocoee, French Broad,
and Nantahala Rivers.
A well-respected antitrust lawyer in
Charlotte, NC, Everett Bowman prefers a
quiet life.
He was born in Wilmington, NC, the
son of a railroad conductor, and built a
distinguished career as one of the state’s
top antitrust lawyers. An attorney with
Robinson Bradshaw in Charlotte, he
focuses his practice in antitrust and
complex commercial litigation and was
recently named Charlotte Litigation –
Antitrust Lawyer of the Year.
Bowman’s methods have always centered
on problem-solving, so when he decided
to formalize his estate plans, he turned
his judicious attitude and passion for the
environment toward conservation across
the state of NC. Recently he decided to
Everett Bowman has made a remarkable gift to the people of NC and
to all those who enjoy and appreciate the natural wonders of the state.
Making heroically generous contributions to three land trusts — SAHC,
Catawba Lands Conservancy, and NC Coastal Land Trust — he has created
a conservation legacy stretching from the mountains to the coast.
make the gifts to the three land trusts now,
rather than subsequently through his will.
“I believe that, as citizens and as human
beings, our greatest responsibility and
ethical calling is stewardship of the
Earth,” said Bowman, writing to notify
the three land trusts of his plans. “As I see
it, that means to support environmental
and other deleterious effects we human
beings and our civilization have had on
the environment. From my informal
research and investigation, I think your
organizations are addressing these
concerns efficiently and well. I believe
your conservation work is of great
importance, and I’m pleased to be able to
support it.”
“I believe that, as citizens and as human
beings, our greatest responsibility and
ethical calling is stewardship of the Earth.”
conservation, preservation, and
restoration — to preserve and protect
the diversity of plant and animal species
and the native habitats of those species,
and to stop and reverse global warming
Each land trust is
naming a trail on
one of its preserves
in Everett’s honor.
SAHC has selected
a trail on one of its properties in the
Highlands of Roan for this distinction.
We are sincerely grateful to Everett for his
vision and generosity.
Le t us welco m e yo u i nto t h e Leg ac y S o c i et y.
Learn how you can help protect our
beloved Southern Appalachians
through your:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Will
Living Trust
Retirement Plans
Life Insurance
Gifts of Real Estate
And more...
Members of the Legacy Society receive special invitations to events
and outings and annual recognition in View from the Highlands.
This special recognition acknowledges the long-term impact of their
support, which builds a strong, solid foundation for SAHC’s ongoing
land conservation work.
If you would like more information about creating your legacy, please
contact Kristy Urquhart at 828.253.0095, ext. 201.
Gifts of any amount are sincerely appreciated, and we can tailor your legacy to meet your
unique financial and conservation goals. All inquiries will be held in confidence.
View from the Highlands | 25
Members’ | CORNER
Tributes
A tribute gift is a special way to honor
someone or a special occasion.
In honor of Martha Bird
Art & Charlotte Ellis
In honor of Ann Frohbose
Jean Boddie
In honor of Peter & Jas Gentling
Jean Webb
In honor of Witt & Helen Langstaff
Art & Charlotte Ellis
In honor of Jay Leutze
Walter & Harriett Burns
Gregory & Martha Crampton
Jamie & Elizabeth Kiser
Blake & Dell Strayhorn
In honor of The Mulvey Family
Daniel Bennett
In honor of Judy Murray
Forrest Buckley
James & Marion Crowell
Darrol Nickels
Carolyn Novak & Don Johnson
Julie & Mike Tiemann
In honor of Judy Murray & Tom Gatti
Art & Charlotte Ellis
In honor of Linda Pearsall
Misty Buchanan
John Finnegan & Stephanie Horton
Judy Francis
James & Donna Johnson, Jr.
Mickey Jo Sorrell
Allison Weakley
In honor of Seeger Harrison Pietruszka
Art & Charlotte Ellis
In honor of Madeline Quinn
Art & Charlotte Ellis
In honor of Brad & Shelli Stanback
Jay Leutze
In honor of Fred & Alice Stanback
Jay Leutze
In honor of Paul Turner & Caitlin
Conaty
Art & Charlotte Ellis
In honor of Sallie & Isak
Zoe Trout
26 | Autumn 2014
New Members
Welcome to SAHC! We couldn’t do this without you!
Laurie Alexander
Dewey & Susan Andrew
Jana Bartleson
Ralph Baumgardner, Jr.
Daniel Bennett
Jean Boddie
Everett Bowman
Mary Ellen Brewington
Kimberly & Tom Brewster
Misty Buchanan
Forrest Buckley
Walter & Harriett Burns
Dan Byrd
Matthew Byrd
William & Ann Campbell
Mandie Carlson
Phillip & Ona Cavey
Mr. & Mrs. Lee Chambers
Laura Collins
Kyle Covey
Gregory & Martha Crampton
John Dainotto
Judy Dourson
Tonya Dozier
Christine & Richard Fellrath
Jill Hammack & D’Ann Ford
Donna & John Fox
Jerry Foxworth
Judy Francis
Tony Franklin
Anne & Robin French
Anne Gietzen
Andrea Greco
Jayden Gurney
Kristine Hall
Benjamin Hamrick
Laura Hannah
Doug Hibshman
Ramona Hodge
Tommy & Sara Holderness
Dr. Mark & Liesa Jenkins
James & Donna Johnson, Jr.
Henrietta Jordan
Jamie & Elizabeth Kiser
Elizabeth Kostova
Marsha LePhew
Robert Mann
Carole and Rick Marcotte
Richard Martula
Dianne McGee
Gerald & Bette Meyer
Meridith Miller & Ken
Christensen
Frank Moretz
John Norris
Carolyn Pilgrim
Bob & Anne Pullen
May & John Rhea
Bill & Tracy Shuping
Gerald Sigmon & Sheila
O’Connor
Christopher Sirmans
GD Smith
Robert Snyder & Mary Berryhill
William & Jane Stanley
Tony Tang
Elizabeth Terrell
Julie & Mike Tiemann
Russell Towers
Zoe Trout
Margaret Vestal
Kathryn & John Warner
Kathy Weisfeld
Harvey Westervelt
Daniel Widis
Jim Wilburn
Members’ | CORNER
In Memoriam: Darrol Nickels
Darrol Nickels, one of SAHC’s founding members, passed away on May 30.
We celebrate his life and remember his lifelong love and dedicated history
of volunteering for the Southern Appalachians.
Born January 10, 1927 in Toms Creek
VA, Darrol grew up in Benham, KY and
attended East Tennessee State University.
He served in the Army during World War
II, and in 1987 retired from the Research
Division of Tennessee Eastman Co.,
(Kodak) after 40 years of service.
We share in honoring the memory
of those friends who have passed.
In Memory of David C. Bailey
Anne & Robin French
Bob & Anne Pullen
Darrol belonged to several conservation
organizations. In addition to helping
create SAHC, he was one of the organizers
of the State of Franklin Group of the
We were delighted to see Darrol (center)
Sierra Club and a member of TN Eastman
along with SAHC founding members Hugh
Hiking Club, serving for 38 years as a
Thompson and Powell Foster at a gathering in
volunteer maintainer on the AT. As the
Kingpsort, TN on May 17.
Club’s structures overseer he coordinated
the design, procurement, and construction SAHC in 1992. In 2000 he was one of the
of bridges along the AT in Northeast, TN. 75 people nationwide named to The AT
Conservancy “Honor Roll of Volunteers.”
Darrol researched, explored and
In 2004 he received The President’s Call
advocated for the area of Iron Mountain
to Service award for over 4000 hours of
which became the Big Laurel Branch
volunteer service.
Wilderness of the Cherokee National
Forrest. He, along with others, advocated
Darrol was preceded in death by his
for a park on the side of River Mountain
beloved wife of 64 years, Georgia Ruth
(Bays Mountain).
Osborne Nickels. He often paid tribute to
Darrol received the Stanley A. Murray
Award for Volunteer Services from
Memorials
her for her help through his life journey.
“Though Darrol's contributions and accomplishments alone are so noteworthy, the
fondest memories I have are what a joy he was to be around. Darrol was of very high
intellect and skills, ranging from a master carpenter to a meticulous data recorder
to an accomplished amateur biologist. Darrol knew plants that no one else knew,
and without a bone of pretentiousness in his body would patiently describe how to
identify them. He knew the Latin names but used the common ones. Darrol literally
knew the mountains like the back of his hand, more thoroughly than anyone I've ever
met. Thank you Darrol for being part of our lives. We will deeply miss you.”
- Joe DeLoach, Former SAHC President & TN Eastman Hiking Club member
In Memory of
Michael Douglas Bailey
Penland-Bailey Company
In Memory of Bonnie Chase
Ron & Nancy Edgerton
In Memory of Jim Crews
Don & Priscilla Bynum
In Memory of Otto Feliu
(beloved family pet)
Judy Murray & Tom Gatti
In Memory of Darrol Nickels
Marguerite Clark
James & Marion Crowell
Machine & Coating Shop
Flower Fund
Judy Murray & Tom Gatti
Buddy & Joan Nickels
Tennessee Eastman Hiking &
Canoeing Club
Janice Ownby
In Memory of Matthew Reha
Stefanie Bourne
Rick & Lynn Reha
Jody Turner
In Memory of Max Thomason
Judy Murray & Tom Gatti
In Memory of Danny Ray Vance
Ramona Hodge
Henrietta Jordan
Judy Murray & Tom Gatti
TN Assoc. of PlumbingHeating-Cooling Contractors
View from the Highlands | 27
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What will be
Your Legacy?
To leave a legacy for future generations, remember SAHC in your estate planning.
The Legacy Society of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
secures our incredible landscape and mountain heritage for future generations.
Contact us at 828.253.0095 to be recognized as a part of the Legacy Society.
Blog:
southernappalachian.wordpress.com
Facebook:
southernappalachianhighlandsconservancy
Linked-In:
southern-appalachian-highlands-conservancy
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Issuu: sahc
Upcoming!
Many Moods of
McCartney/
All4Asheville Benefit
Sept 27, 2014
Use this QR code to view
our mobile website.
More hikes & events inside, or visit online:
Appalachian.org