View from the Highlands - 2014 #2 (Summer/Autumn)

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 sahc@appalachian.org

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

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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 info@landtrustaccreditation.org.

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 sahc@appalachian.org.

• 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.

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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.”

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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, meghan_baker@ncsu.edu, or Ethan Henderson, ethan_henderson@ncsu.edu.

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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 allison@appalachian.org 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!

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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.

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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

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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 kana@appalachian.org.

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 cheryl@appalachian.org.

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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 cheryl@appalachian.org 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:

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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.

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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

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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.

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Upcoming!

Many Moods of McCartney/ All4Asheville Benefit Sept 27, 2014

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More hikes & events inside, or visit online:

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