View
2021 Vol. 1
from the Highlands
Protecting the World’s Oldest Mountains
Photo by Travis Bordley
Conserving Mountains • Farms • Streams • Habitat Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 1
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Letter from the Executive Director Carl Silverstein
372 Merrimon Avenue Asheville, NC 28801-1222 828.253.0095 • FAX 828.253.1248 sahc@appalachian.org
Board of Trustees
Matt Moses, President Jeff Needham, Vice-President Tom Williams, Secretary Nancy Edgerton, Treasurer Sheryl Aikman, At-Large Sarah Davis Joe DeLoach Mary Fanslow Miranda (Randy) Hunter Pam Kelley Popsie Lynch Larry (Pender) Pender Cynthia Poortenga Rich Preyer Chris Soto Allison Williams
Erwin, TN Johnson City, TN Fairview, NC Asheville, NC Asheville, NC Asheville, NC Jonesborough, TN Kingsport, TN Flat Rock, NC Kingsport, TN Fairview, NC Hendersonville, NC Kingsport, TN Asheville, NC Johnson City, TN Charleston, SC
Staff
Carl Silverstein Executive Director Kristy Urquhart Associate Director Michelle Pugliese Land Protection Director Jess Laggis Farmland Protection Director Hanni Muerdter Conservation Director Marquette Crockett Roan Stewardship Director Sarah Sheeran Stewardship Director Chris Kaase Stewardship Associate Cheryl Fowler Membership Director Finance Compliance Director Lisa Fancher Angela Shepherd Communications Director Director of Philanthropy Pauline Heyne Chris Link Community Farm Manager Community Farm Associate Tamarya Sims Lauren McTigue Nature Experience Director Weddings & Events Coordinator Kirin Battaglia Roan Seasonal Ecologist Travis Bordley
AmeriCorps Cici Wood Shaylyn Sargent Hannah Stuart Stephanie Long Hanna Peterman
Communications & Community Engagement Member Conservation Education & Volunteer Member Land Protection & Education Member Stewardship & Volunteer Member Stewardship & Volunteer Member
Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 2
We are so grateful for all of you - our members, partners, and volunteers. Your support helped us surpass our year-end fundraising goal, and we are inspired and humbled by your generosity. Thank you! Looking back, 2020 was an astounding year for conservation. You helped protect almost 3,000 more acres across the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee - from Carter County, TN and the Highlands of Roan to the headwaters of the Chatahoochee Wild and Scenic River, just above the NC/GA border. In December, we continued closing conservation projects at an incredible pace, resulting in one of our most successful years ever — in terms of both the number, quality, and diversity of completed projects. To punctuate this success, last year we also completed our second renewal of accreditation from the national Land Trust Accreditation Commission, signifying that SAHC continues to uphold rigorous standards of professionalism and demonstrate our ability to continue to protect conserved land for posterity. We have many exciting new projects underway and opportunities to connect people with nature being planned now for Spring, Summer, and Fall of 2021. I invite you to read the stories of some of our most recent conservation success stories (p. 4-13) and then subscribe to our e-Newsletter (at Appalachian.org) or follow our social media channels to find out more. Thank you for making conservation of mountains, farms, forests, and rivers possible. We can’t do it without you.
Protect
Steward
Connect
The mission of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is to conserve the unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for all people to enjoy outdoor recreation in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, enduring for future generations. We achieve this through long-term conservation relationships with private landowners and public agencies and owning and managing land. We are committed to creating and supporting equitable, healthy and thriving communities for everyone in our region. 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Map: SAHC’s Conservation Focus Areas and NEW Land Protection Projects Pyatt Creek pg. 4
Mathes Farm pg. 10-11
Beaverdam pg. 5
Highlands of Appalachian Trail Roan Tr a il
Cataloochee Gateway at Cove Creek Gap pg. 6-7
n
a hi c ala p p A
Countryside
French Broad River Valley
Smoky Mountains
Black Mountains i Blue R
dg
y wa k r a eP
Bl
Sinkhole Creek Farm
ue
Rid
ge
pg. 12-13
P ar kw ay
Balsam Mountains
Hickory Nut Gap Forest pg. 8-9
Renewal of National Land Trust Accreditation We have renewed our land trust accreditation – proving once again that, as part of a network of accredited land trusts across the nation, SAHC is committed to professional excellence and to maintaining the public’s trust in its conservation work. We became an accredited land trust in 2010 and have now successfully renewed accredited status twice, demonstrating strength, professionalism, and longevity for our organization. SAHC provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that our conserved lands will be protected forever. “It is exciting to recognize SAHC’s continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction,” said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the Commission. “Donors and partners can trust the more than 400 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship.” A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org.
Land Protection Updates | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 3 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 3
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Highlands of Roan Focus Area
SAHC accepted transfer of 36 acres of conserved land, located at the headwaters of Pyatt Creek in the Highlands of Roan, from the North American Land Trust (NALT). This Pyatt Creek preserve is located in a network of land SAHC has protected in the Yellow Mountain State Natural Area. The Pyatt Creek property in the Yellow Mountain State Natural area reaches 4,080 ft. in elevation and contains exemplary native habitat and pristine headwater sources, including a headwater tributary and portion of the main branch of Pyatt Creek.
Pyatt Creek Yellow Mountain State Natural Area Roan Stewardship Director Marquette Crockett on a site visit to Pyatt Creek. SAHC’s acquisition of the property will ensure that high quality water sources on the tract remain permanently protected.
ail nal Historic Tr
n Victory Natio
Overmountai
Pyatt Creek
New Conservation Property Other SAHC Preserves / Easements State Land (NC) Other Protected Land 4 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 4
“SAHC’s acquisition of this property continues our ongoing work in the Yellow Mountain State Natural area, securing high elevation habitat and water sources in a network of conserved land,” says Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese. “This tract is about a miles south of our Yellow Mountain Connector project, in which SAHC protected a conglomerate of small, high elevation parcels in 2019. Land protection often reminds me of putting together a puzzle - we work with willing landowners whenever possible to protect tracts that contain important habitat and water resources. Over time, it is exciting to see these puzzle pieces come together in a connected network that permanently secures wildlife corridors, watersheds, and wide scenic views.” The Pyatt Creek preserve is located
within the NC Natural Heritage Program Yellow Mountains/ Raven Cliffs Natural Area, within the Grandfather Unaka Priority Amphibian Reptile Conservation Area, and state priority forest types identified on the property include Rich Montane Seeps, Northern Hardwood Forest, and High Elevation Red Oak Forest. Ruth Williams donated the property to the North American Land Trust (NALT) in 2010. NALT intended to hold it for a short time before transferring to a local land trust for permanent preservation. “We are grateful to the North American Land Trust for transferring this property to become an SAHC preserve, and to Brad and Shelli Stanback for donating funds to cover the survey and other transaction costs associated with the transfer,” adds Pugliese.
Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese with Mike Duus of NALT.
| Land Protection Updates 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Adjoining Rough Creek Watershed (Left) View from the recently protected Beaverdam tract; photo credit Wildwood Consulting LLC - Dan Callaghan. (Right) The property rises to the ridge, adjoining Canton’s Rough Creek Watershed (Google Earth image).
In November, we purchased 54 acres in the Beaverdam community of Haywood County, protecting land adjoining the Town of Canton’s Rough Creek Watershed and other SAHCprotected properties in the Beaverdam and Newfound Mountains area. “Permanent protection of this tract will help preserve scenic views from public trails in the adjoining Rough Creek watershed, as well as stream sources and habitat in an important wildlife corridor,” says Conservation Director Hanni Muerdter. “These 54 acres add to a network of thousands of acres of protected land in Haywood County and western Buncombe County.” The forested property rises to a ridge where it adjoins the Town of Canton’s Rough Creek Watershed, which contains a 10+ mile hiking
and biking public trail system. SAHC worked with the Town of Canton to permanently protect this beautiful 870-acre preserve in 2002, made possible by the NC Land and Water Fund (formerly NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund). Although the recently protected tract will not be open to the public, conservation of the land means that the buffer area along the public trails will remain undeveloped in the future, preserving the experience for people who enjoy outdoor recreation on the trails. The tract falls within a high priority wildlife corridor in the Eastern Wildway, as identified by the Wildlands Network.
SAHC plans to own and manage the property for forest habitat in the long term.
French Broad River Valley Focus Area
Beaverdam
To the south, the property also adjoins a 139-acre parcel that SAHC purchased last year in the Beaverdam Creek watershed. “Beaverdam Creek has a priority action plan written by Haywood Waterways Association, which emphasizes additional land protection for water quality improvement,” explains Muerdter. “Land conservation is one of the best ways to help protect streams, as it prevents future disturbance and sedimentation that could impact water quality.”
Beaverdam Property
New Conservation Property Other SAHC Preserves / Easements
Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 5
The property adjoins other SAHC-protected lands in the Beaverdam Creek area
Land Protection Updates | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 5 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Smoky Mountains Focus Area
Cataloochee Gateway
Entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
SAHC recently purchased 10 acres between Cove Creek Road and the crest of this ridge (toward the left side of photo).
Thanks to generous conservation supporters, we purchased 10 acres at Cove Creek Gap, the Cataloochee entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The land borders the Cataloochee Divide Trail, rising from Cove Creek Road to the ridgeline and sharing a 0.3-mile boundary with the trail and national park. Although small in acreage, these 10 acres have the potential to make a big impact. In addition to sharing a boundary with the trail and national park, the land is highly visible to visitors driving into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the Cataloochee entrance.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cataloochee Gateway New Conservation Property Other SAHC Easements/Preserves US National Park Land 6 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 6
“We are so grateful to the Overholser and Hultquist family for helping SAHC successfully protect this slice of land along the Cataloochee Divide Trail at the entrance to the national park,” said Conservation Director Hanni Muerdter. “We will own and manage it in the short term as forested habitat buffering the park, and we hope to transfer the land to become part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.” The 10 acres that SAHC recently purchased at the Cataloochee Gateway were once part of a larger parcel of land owned by the Hultquist family. Kay Hultquist worked
with SAHC to permanently protect the family’s 65-acre tract nearby in 2000 through a conservation easement, preserving wildlife habitat that buffers the national park, scenic views in the landscape, and 2,000 linear feet of stream. Kathy Overholser (husband Jim), Chip Hultquist (wife Teri), and Joe Hultquist carry on the conservation legacy of their parents, Kay and Charles Hultquist, honoring their love of the mountains and continuing to help preserve these important natural spaces. The idea to protect the park entrance by generously donating funds to SAHC to purchase the land and
| Land Protection Updates 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Personal Perspective: Kathy and Jim Overholser on the Hultquist Family and Bent Knee Knob Kathy Overholser recalls her mother, Kay Hultquist, as an “interesting person” with a deep love for the mountains. Many SAHC members may remember participating in the Wild Edibles hikes that Kay enjoyed leading, often joined by son Chip Hultquist. The property adjoins the national park along the Cataloochee Divide Trail.
eventually transfer it to the national park resonated with Kathy and Jim Overholser, who spearheaded the Hultquist family’s fundraising effort for this project. It has culminated in the successful land purchase to protect the ridgeline and the Cataloochee gateway to the park. “The preservation of these 10 acres prevents development right at the trail,” says Jim Overholser. “There is an access road right at the gap, at the park boundary, and the land there could have easily been developed. We’re pleased to help SAHC protect the ridgeline and park entrance. We’ve been lifetime members of SAHC since 1979, and conservation has always been an aspect of our lives. It’s an important thing to do.” We are grateful to the Overholser and the Hultquist families for their continued support and commitment to conservation, to Brad and Shelli Stanback, and to all our members for making conservation successes like this possible!
AmeriCorps member Stephanie Long looks into the Cove Creek Gap land from the trail.
Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 7
Kay grew up in Jacksonville, FL, the middle child of three girls. “When my mom was quite young, in the 1920s, she and her two sisters and their Kay Hultquist (left) and sister mother would drive from Jacksonville to Betty Skinner in 2013. New England every summer by car because my mother’s grandmother lived up there,” recalls Kathy. “My grandmother was quite the adventurer. Then the girls would go up to a camp in Maine for the better part of the summer. In 1927-28, my grandmother took the girls to live in the Swiss Alps for a year. There my mother really fell in love with mountains. When she graduated from the Florida State College for Women [now Florida State University], she went to the University of Tennessee for her graduate degree, where she met my dad. My father was from Alcoa in East Tennessee, and he grew up hiking in the mountains.” Charles and Kay Hultquist married and moved to Western North Carolina, living in rental cottages near Lake Junaluska. Kathy reflects that it was probably Kay who sparked the quest for mountain land, though both her parents were interested in the outdoors and camping. They purchased ‘Bent Knee Knob,’ a tract of land adjoining the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Cove Creek Gap, in 1945. Jim Overholser shared that the couple “were interested in camping and wrote one of the first campground guides.” Vacation Campgrounds: A Guide to Public Campgrounds by Charles and Kay Hultquist was published 1956. When Kay committed 65 acres at Bent Knee Knob to conservation in 2000, she permanently protected the family’s legacy for conservation, along with wildlife habitat buffering national park land, scenic views, and water resources. Her children Kathy, Joe, and Chip continue to enjoy the land with their families, knowing it will be protected for future generations. Kathy says it is important to the family to stay involved in SAHC and conservation in general. Her husband Jim says, “It’s important to preserve the land. When Kathy’s parents purchased the property back in 1945, there was no development in the area at the time. There were some subsistence farms, but many of them were going away. Now, the whole of Western North Carolina has a tremendous amount of second homes and development. It’s important to support organizations like SAHC that are involved in land protection and species protection.” Land Protection Updates | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 7 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Black Mountains Focus Area
Hickory Nut Gap Forest Near historic Sherrill’s Inn
Fields, forest, and an apple orchard surrounding Sherrill’s Inn and visible from Drovers Road Scenic Byway are now protected.
“Although this new conservation easement is small in acreage, it adds to hundreds of acres at Hickory Nut Gap Forest, which SAHC began protecting in 2008,” explains Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese. “When I look at this conservation easement, I think about preserving the historic setting of places like the Sherrill’s Inn, protecting the natural land close to what it was like back when the inn was originally built and used as a stop-over for people traveling across the mountains. I’m excited that this project preserves the surrounding
context of this historic site, as well as habitat and agricultural resources. This is a great example of how a smaller conservation easement can make a big impact.” The 26-acre conservation easement in Buncombe County preserves land and water resources, including habitat in a wildlife corridor, views from a designated NC scenic byway, and some aspects of agricultural use.
“We were so pleased to be able to work with Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy on this final of the series of conservation easements we have granted on the farm and forest land property in the Fairview section of Buncombe County that our grandparents, James and Elizabeth McClure, acquired in 1916 and my sisters and brothers and I inherited from our parents, Jamie and Elspie A heritage apple orchard on the property Clarke,” said Dumont 8 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 8
The rolling route along Drover’s Road Scenic Byway affords picturesque views of mountain peaks, forests, and farmland protected by SAHC – from flat, fertile bottomlands to the top of Little Pisgah Mountain. Now, 26 more acres at Hickory Nut Gap Forest have been permanently protected, including a heritage apple orchard, open area, and forest, partially surrounding Sherrill’s Inn, a designated Historic American Building. Clarke. “Although small in area by comparison, this one was vitally important because it protects the immediate “setting” of the family home, the historic Sherrill’s Inn, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. What happens, or perhaps better said doesn’t happen, to the setting of a historic building can either positively or negatively contribute to the way in which people experience the historic building itself. The grant of this conservation easement will help insure that the setting of the historic Sherrill’s Inn will remain protected, undeveloped and pretty much as it has been for well over a hundred years. We are extremely grateful to SAHC and its long-time supporters who made this conservation easement possible.” Conservation of this land was made possible by support from SAHC members, generous seed gifts from the Stanback family, a grant from Buncombe County, and donation of part of the conservation easement value by the James McClure Clarke
| Land Protection Updates 3/9/21 6:50 PM
and Elspeth McClure Clarke Family Limited Partnership. These 26 acres join a network of about 1,500 acres of conserved land that SAHC has protected surrounding Hickory Nut Gap, including land that SAHC protected as part of the Drover’s Road Scenic Byways projects in 2012-2013, conservation easements at Little Pisgah Mountain (2011-2012), Drovers Road Preserve (2003), and protected agricultural land actively farmed by Hickory Nut Gap Farms and Flying Cloud
Farm (2008-2015). “The Fairview valley is, to me, one of the most beautiful places just outside Asheville,” adds Michelle. “I love driving or riding my bike up 74 A (Drover’s Road Scenic Byway) and knowing that SAHC has protected these scenic views on both sides of this historic route.”
Dr ov er
Hickory Nut Gap Forest
’s R
oa
dS
ce n
ic
By wa y
Thank you to all of our supporters for making inspiring projects like this happen!
New Conservation Property Other SAHC Preserves / Easements
History Perspective: Drover’s Road Scenic Byway
Conservation efforts at Hickory Nut Gap protect views from the scenic byway, as well as productive farmland, wildlife habitat and water resources.
The Drovers Road Scenic Byway connects the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Hickory Nut Gorge, traversing some of the most scenic rural land in the region. It follows 16.5 miles of U.S. Highway 74A, from the Blue Ridge Parkway just north of Fairview south to Bat Cave where it terminates at the Black Mountain Rag Scenic Byway (N.C. Highway 9). The byway passes through the fertile valleys of Fairview, which lay below scenic mountain peaks, including Little Pisgah Mountain, Ferguson Peak, Tater Knob and Bearwallow Mountain. Traveling southeast from Fairview, the scenic byway crosses the eastern continental divide at Hickory Nut Gap, where Henderson and Buncombe Counties meet.
The path that is now the Drovers Road Scenic Byway was first a Native American Cherokee trail. In the 18th century, settlers followed this trail in covered wagons to the Hickory Nut Gorge. Early settlements gradually expanded as a means to support a growing agricultural commerce. Farm products had to be transported from WNC, TN and KY to markets in SC and GA. During fall months, farmers followed this route with their livestock, driving hogs, cattle, horses, mules, turkeys or ducks on the long trip to market. The men who led these herds were called “drovers,” and this route through the mountains became known as the “Drovers’ Road”. In the early 19th century, Dr. John Harris, a doctor and entrepreneur, was particularly interested in creating an improved road from Asheville to Rutherfordton. The NC General Assembly authorized funds in 1823 to improve the road through Hickory Nut Gorge, and Harris became one of the commissioners appointed in ‘keeping’ the turnpike road. Bedford Sherrill, son-in-law of Dr. Harris, built and owned the iconic inn at the crest of the gap. Another structure on the property dates to 1806. According to Historic American Buildings Survey documents recorded in the Library of Congress: “Although much enlarged, Sherrill’s Inn is an example of the Saddle-Bag House. This scheme is basically a double cabin separated by a central chimney. The Inn operated as a tavern and stage coach stop 1834-1909. After securing the contract to carry mail from Rutherfordton over to Tennessee, Bedford Sherrill purchased this land in Hickory Nut Gap in order to establish the needed overnight stop in this vicinity.” Land Protection Updates | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 9 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 9
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Highlands of Roan Focus Area
Mathes Farm
Sh-Nanny-Gans Goats
Stunning Roan Highland vistas surround this farm, and it is prominent in the views from trails, roads, and public lands all around the Roan. Now, the farm - and those views - are permanently protected!
Thanks to conservation supporters like you, 45 more acres of farmland and forest in Avery County in the Highlands of Roan have been permanently protected.
ail an Tr
achi
ctor
in Vi
unta
rmo
Ove
l Appa
t’l H y Na
Mathes Farm
il
a ic Tr
istor
New Conservation Property Other SAHC Preserves / Easements US Forest Service State (NC or TN) owned Land Other Protected Land 10 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 10
“Visitors and residents of the Roan enjoy stunning scenic views, which include portions of the Mathes Farm in Beech Bottom,” says Farmland Program Director Jess Laggis. “Development of this tract could have devastated views of Yellow Mountain from 19E and from Yellow Mountain, and from the motor route of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. Now, these stunning views are protected, and the land can continue to be used for farming for future generations.”
excellent, large breed of goats. “They are just beautiful,” she says. “We really do love the goats, and they actually help regenerate the land.” The Sh-Nanny-Gans herd has been used for rental to local landowners for invasive species management, as well as meat production and breeding. In the past, goats from the Sh-Nanny-Gans herd helped with habitat management on SAHC’s Elk Hollow Preserve.
The property owned by Rickie and Shannonrae Mathes hosts a Boer goat operation called “ShNanny-Gans.” Shannonrae says that Boer goats Sh-Nanny-Gans goat herd on SAHC’s Elk Hollow Preserve in 2017, are a particularly helping to manage the land for Golden-winged Warbler habitat. | Farmland Protection Updates 3/9/21 6:50 PM
“The purchase of the conservation easement allowed us to put money back into improving the property,” says Shannonrae. “We purchased a couple of goats recently and are working to build the herd back up. ” In addition to preserving working farmland and scenic views from
around the Roan Highlands, this conservation easement also protects habitat and water resources. The property contains headwater seeps and streams feeding Puncheon Camp Branch, a tributary of the North Toe River. The farm adjoins the Roan Mountain Audubon Important Bird
Area, and may provide potential habitat for Golden-winged Warblers and Gray’s lily. We are very grateful to Brad and Shelli Stanback and to all our SAHC members for making this farmland conservation in the Roan Highlands possible!
Landowner Perspective: Rickie and Shannonrae Mathes Rickie and Shannonrae met on horseback, independently enjoying their passion for horses while riding in the Highlands of Roan area one day. Years later, their friendship flowered into romance, and they have created a special, beloved home and farm in the mountains. “I have a strong tie to this place,” says Shannonrae. “It is the first place Rickie told me he loved me. We were married here and have built a beautiful life together. We’ve fought and struggled to make it here, and I feel so blessed.” While exploring their estate and future plans, Shannonrae and Rickie wanted to ensure that their property would never be developed. “We were looking into estate planning,” she said, “There is a considerable age difference between us, and with Rickie getting ready to retire, we asked ourselves ‘what we are going to do next?’ We have had to struggle [financially] to keep this place whole and were concerned about what would happen to it if something happens to us. We didn’t want to see it developed in the future and wanted to make sure it was here for my son or others to farm in the future.” In addition to the Boer goat herd the couple raise on the property, the farm is used for a home garden, which produces a variety of vegetables for their families and neighbors. For 20+ years, Rickie raised Fraser fir trees on the property. However, both Rickie and Shannonrae were employed in outside jobs in order to make ends meet. He retired this winter from lawn service work. Rickie’s family is from the Beech Bottom community of Avery County, and several of his family members are buried in a cemetery at the Mennonite church there. Rickie owned about 20 acres of the farm property and added to it over the years with purchases from neighboring landowners. Rickie and Shannonrae eventually purchased the 9-acre tract where they got engaged and built a house on it; they’ve been there together for 11 years. “It’s such a beautiful place,” says Shannonrae. “The views are really astonishing, no matter which way you look. We are thrilled knowing that this place will always be preserved for future generations and that they will always be able to farm it.” Farmland Protection Updates | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 11 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 11
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Highlands of Roan Focus Area
Sinkhole Creek Farm History and Farming in the Roan
Sinkhole Creek Farm occupies a stunning, picturesque setting surrounded by mountains in the Highlands of Roan.
In a picturesque landscape just south of the Roan Massif, farms with rolling fields, pastures, and forests contain a rich repository of stories and memories, along with agriculturally important prime soils and stream sources. Sam and Ronda Silver, the seventh generation of a local farming family, wanted to make sure that their beautiful Century Farm would be passed down to future generations intact. So, they worked with SAHC to protect 111 acres with an agricultural conservation easement. “Sinkhole Creek Farm is absolutely stunning,” says Farmland Protection Director Jess Laggis. “Its rolling pastures provide sweeping views of the nearby mountainscapes, and the land contains a high concentration of important agricultural soils – a rarity on such a large mountain farm. Members of the Silver family have long been stewards of the land; they implemented a stream bank mitigation easement in 2011 that fenced cattle out of the headwater streams and provided vegetative cover to protect water quality. We’re so thrilled that Sam and Ronda have committed the entire farm to conservation.”
Sinkhole Creek Farm primarily produces corn, hay, and cattle. The farm contains 66.7% unique soils, meaning that a high percentage of soils found on the farm have national, state, and local importance for their ability to sustain agricultural production. The Silvers have partnered with Mitchell County Soil & Water Conservation in several projects, implementing best management practices to improve water quality on the farm — including a feeding structure, feeding pads, fencing and rotational grazing. Currently, Sinkhole Creek Farm sells pasture-raised steers processed locally in Avery County.
The farm contains important soils for agriculture.
12 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 12
The Silvers want to keep the farm in productive use and be able to eventually pass it down to their son, Jake. According to Sam Silver, his ancestor George Silver was a veteran of the Revolutionary War who settled in this area near Bakersville, NC after the war, and the land has been passed down through the
family for generations. His grandfather farmed it in the early 1900s, and his father acquired the land and started a dairy operation there in 1955. Sam farmed along with his father, as the Sinkhole Creek Farm operation transitioned from dairy through burley tobacco, Fraser Fir Christmas trees, and beef cattle. “Driving near Sinkhole Creek, you’ll see plenty of “Silver” on road signs and grave markers,” adds Jess. “The family has a long and storied history in Mitchell County, and claims the infamous Frankie Silver as a member.” This project was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s National Resource Conservation Service Regional Conservation Partnership Program, a grant from NC Dept. of Agriculture’s Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, private philanthropic contributions by Brad & Shelli Stanback, donation of a portion of the conservation easement value by the landowners, and support from SAHC members.
| Farmland Protection Updates 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Landowner Perspective: Sam Silver Sam speaks with pride about his family history of farming, love for the land he wants to preserve for the future, and a keen sense of humor. “We have lean cattle. Do you know why that is? Because the cattle learned to lean to go up and down the hills,” he quips. But that humor is tempered by deep concern for the future of the land. “If you look around these counties, there were a lot of little farms that people made a living on, and they are no longer there,” says Sam. “When people passed on, their descendants divided it up or sold it. Just up the valley where I was raised there are several farms that have been cut to pieces and there’s nothing left. I think the SAHC route of conserving land is a great thing to preserve these local family farms. We didn’t want our farm to be cut up and divided. God only gave us this land for a certain amount of time, and we want to leave it better than we got it. We want to leave it for the next generation and for the future generations so if they want to farm it’s there.” Federal Funding for Farmland Preservation In 2017, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture National Resource Conservation Service (USDA NRCS) announced funding allocations from the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), which included an unprecedented $8 million awarded for farmland conservation in WNC. This allocation for the Blue Ridge Forever coalition’s proposal “Forever Farms; Easements at the Eminence” was directed to protect working agricultural land and clean water sources across the region. Jess helped secure this allocation as a former Director of Blue Ridge Forever and is now excited to work on projects which bring those federal funds into the land — like the conservation easement at Sinkhole Creek Farm. “This historic $8 million allocation was specifically for farmland conservation projects that protect both headwater sources for drinking water throughout the state and broader region, and the preservation of important agricultural soil resources,” she says. “It’s very exciting now to be ‘on the ground,’ seeing that allocation actually used to make conservation projects like this possible.”
“I grew up farming here,” adds Sam. “My daddy farmed it all his life. We may not make a lot of money, but there is more in this life than money. Farming has a lot of pleasure in it as well as headaches. There’s enjoyment in looking back at end of day or end of season and saying ‘hey we had a good year’ – and then we always want to make it better.”
The Tale of Frankie Silver Sam Silver’s ancestor was a brother to Charlie Silver, who was the husband of Frankie Silver. Frankie was convicted of murdering Charlie in December of 1831, and the tragic, mysterious circumstances of that fateful night have worked their way through numerous renditions of story and song. Frances (Frankie) Stewart Silver was a young teenager when she married Charlie; at this time of the murder, he was 19 and she was 18, with a 13-month-old baby, Nancy. Throughout the trial and 180+ years of folklore, Frankie has been portrayed alternatively as a jealous wife and a victim of abuse (members of the jury later petitioned the governor for her pardon, which was never granted). The tale of this doomed couple has been the subject of folksong and poetry, books, film, and more.
Farmland Protection Updates | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 13 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 13
3/9/21 6:50 PM
SAHC Community Farm Conservation • Education • Celebration
Brahman-longhorn cross cattle on the farm continue to flourish.
SAHC’s 140-acre Community Farm hosts beginning farm businesses, educational workshops, and service learning experiences. It’s a working model that blends productive agriculture and responsible land management with educational opportunities and community engagement. Contact us for more info about the programs, event space, or opportunities to visit the farm (by appointment).
Shortleaf Pine Habitat Controlled Burn The Cornell Land Trust Bird Conservation Initiative’s small grant program provides funding opportunities to land trusts to facilitate impactful projects that accelerate and The recent burn provided an opportunity to host an amplify bird educational walk with agency partners, including NC conservation and Wildlife Resources Commission and NC Forest Service. land stewardship on land trust properties and easements. SAHC received an award to restore declining conifer ecosystems in the mountains of NC. As part of habitat management activities funded with this grant, which also included red spruce-Fraser fir restoration in the Highlands of Roan, we conducted a controlled (also called a “prescribed”) burn and tree release on 18 acres of shortleaf pine habitat at the Community Farm. Shortleaf pine forests provide forage for the Appalachian type of Red Crossbill, a bird unique to our region. These open woodlands are also important for Northern Bobwhite and other groundnesting birds. Much of NC’s shortleaf pine was cut in the early 1900s, and forests were further damaged by fire suppression, which allowed hardwoods to dominate the canopy. In the 1990s, many remaining shortleaf pine were killed by southern pine beetle. Shortleaf pine is slow-growing compared to other pine species, which may also explain why the species is not as prevalent as it once was. We’ve identified multiple conifer-dependent bird species in the shortleaf pine reforestation area at the farm, and we look forward to seeing this restored habitat grow into maturity! 14 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 14
Community Farm Associate Tamarya Sims (left) and Seasonal Ecologist Travis Bordley (right) working on high tunnel installation.
Late fall and winter are a beautiful time for planning, organizing and preparing for the next growing season to follow. And that’s exactly what our Community Farm team has been doing — updating farm infrastructure, improving system functionality, preparing environmental education spaces, and getting everything ready for the new growers joining the Farmer Incubator Program this year. After completing grading and site preparation, we put up a new hoophouse (high tunnel) on the western side of the farm property. Thank you to The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina for providing funding for this project, and to volunteers who helped in the high tunnel construction!
Our Community Farm work is funded in part by grants from The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina and a cost-share grant from USDA NRCS.
| SAHC Community Farm 3/9/21 6:50 PM
Sign up now for Community Farm CSA Shares We welcomed three new farm operations to our Farmer Incubator Program at the beginning of the year – and these three operations will be offering CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture subscription plans) for the 2021 season. Your early investment helps the farmers get an early start in the season, then you enjoy the rewards of the harvest! More details on offerings, payment options, and pickup will be announced. Alta Vista Farm
Lunar Whale Herbs
Justin Jones is the owner and farmer of Alta Vista Farm. “Being a farmer isn’t simply a job but rather a vocation and lifestyle. I’m continuously inspired and humbled to be of service to others by growing healthy food, distributing it equitably, and caring for the local environment.”
Noel (she/her) is the owner of Lunar Whale Herbs. “Lunar Whale Herbs is a one acre, no till, no spray medicinal and culinary herb farm. We strive to bring the community a local source of high quality herbs and herbal products through fresh herb CSA, apothecary box, and wholesale offerings.”
Purchase shares in Alta Vista Farm’s growing season and receive weekly deliveries of fresh produce. A weekly share will include 6-8 vegetables; each share is enough to feed 1-3 people. You also have the ability to purchase extra vegetables each week from their online store, depending on what’s available from the farm. The 2021 CSA season begins May 3 and goes until November 29. The price of a CSA share is $25 per week. You can pay the full amount of your share up-front (which is a huge help to the farm) or pay through monthly installments.
The fresh herb CSA is a way to have access to fresh culinary and medicinal herbs all season long, paired with educational information about the healing properties of each plant. The CSA is a bi-weekly share from June 2ndOctober 26th (12 shares) with 5 generous bundles of fresh leaf, flower, or roots, depending on what’s in season. Earlybird discount end April 1st! The apothecary box is a monthly box of 4 herbal products - such as balms, tinctures, and more . The apothecary box is provided once a month from JuneDecember (7 boxes).
Visit AltaVistaFarmNC.com or email altavistafarmnc@gmail.com.
Visit LunarWhaleHerbs.com or email noel@lunarwhaleherbs.com.
Blazing Star Flowers Blazing Star Flowers is a small cut-flower farm and floral design studio founded by Suzanne Nolter. She uses sustainable, regenerative, and organic methods to grow gorgeous flowers and bouquets. “I love the way the way that working as a farmer-florist combines artistic expression with my other passions: nature, plants and environmental sustainability.” In 2021, flowers will be offered through weekly CSA shares, custom home deliveries, and designs for weddings and events. Weekly Flower CSA shares will run from July to September and can be purchased month-by-month or for the whole season. Members can choose a pre-made bouquet or a bucket of loose flowers to arrange themselves. Visit BlazingStarFlowers.com or email blazingstarflowers@gmail.com.
Find Out More! Community Farm Virtual Lunch & Learn - 12 pm, Thurs. March 25 You are invited to an informative virtual program to learn more about the many exciting programs and projects that happen at our SAHC Community Farm. Located outside Asheville, it is an educational site and working farm that provides a continually evolving home for conservation projects and agricultural production. Join us for this FREE informative and engaging presentation to learn more about it’s history, ongoing activities and why it serves as an important resource for our community. Presented by Chris Link, Community Farm Manager and Tamarya Sims, Community Farm Associate.
More info and Zoom registration link at Appalachian.org SAHC Community Farm | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 15 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 15
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Youth Education Updates Extracurricular activities look a little different this year, but that has not stopped Asheville High School’s Ecology Club from finding new ways to connect. Led by President Vivian Campbell, the group of aspiring environmentalists set out to speak to as many green organizations as possible this year. While the group is eager to partake in community service opportunities, learning more about their local community, ecology, and environmental justice provides a meaningful way to spend time until it becomes safe to gather once again. Communications and Community Engagement AmeriCorps member Cici Wood was excited to speak to the group online about their interests and how they may be able to contribute to SAHC’s widespread conservation efforts in the future. In the meantime, they were encouraged to dive deeper into environmental justice topics by reading environmental books by authors of color, listening to inclusive podcasts, and following science communicators on social media. “SAHC values fostering relationships with youth groups and we are looking forward to connecting with more students as the year progresses,” says Cici. She has continued to meet periodically with small groups of students through Youth Transformed for Life and the StephensLee Recreation Center. For groups that no longer meet in person with outside organizations, Cici has developed self-directed project sheets as well as virtual youth education videos. You can check out our latest Youth Education or Conservation 101 videos, and more, at Appalachian.org/video - or subscribe to the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy YouTube Channel.
Stay with Us! We are thrilled to announce that we have opened two of our conservation preserves to guest stays, so you can better connect with nature. These homes on SAHC preserves provide the perfect setting for you to enjoy and learn more about protected lands with your family and friends. Some of SAHC’s conservation properties have been acquired with existing structures. Over the past few years, we’ve evaluated and updated these structures to create unique opportunities to connect people with The Farmhouse nature. Now, we have established an online reservation system to enable guests to make reservations to stay with us and experience the remarkable world of conservation first-hand! We currently have The Farmhouse at our Community Farm in Alexander, NC and Firefly Cabin at Robinson Rough Preserve in Leicester, NC open for reservations (with open dates beginning in April). Both are located in our French Broad River Valley Conservation Focus Area. Proceeds from your visit contribute to SAHC’s land conservation efforts in the mountains of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee, continuing to protect clean water sources, habitat for wildlife Firefly Cabin at Robinson Rough and native plants, places to enjoy outdoor recreation, and productive farmland. SAHC members get a 10% discount with code “WeLoveSAHC”. Additional immersive nature experiences at SAHC preserves, including reservations to access camping platforms, will be announced later in 2021.
For more info, visit Appalachian.org/staywithus and be sure to check back for updates!
Stay Connected! Visit Appalachian.org and subscribe to our monthly email newsletter, or follow us on social media, for more frequent updates. 16 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 | Connecting People with Land Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 16
3/9/21 6:50 PM
migration. Check it out at :
Migration Station! Migration is when animals move from one place to another. There are many different reasons why animals migrate, but it is often to find food or escape extreme heat or cold. One animal that migrates to and from the Southern Appalachian area is called the Golden Eagle. Golden Eagles live in cold areas, such as Canada, during the summer months and come south to warmer areas in the winter to stay warm and find more food. What is a yummy meal you would be willing to migrate for? One Golden Eagle named Cherokee has been known to travel over 1,700 miles to get to the Southern Appalachians from Canada! Help the Cherokee migrate to the Southern Appalachian region through the maze below.
Fun Fact: The largest golden eagle nest on record was
20 feet tall and 8.5 feet wide. That is bigger than an elephant! For Kids - Fun with Conservation! | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 17 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 17
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Th a n k Yo u Co r pora te Pa rtners! Corporate Partners
Winter Hiking Challenge
Mt. Mitchell: $25,000+ Bernhardt Furniture Wicked Weed Brewing Witherspoon, Platt & Associates
Thank you to everyone who signed up to participate in our first ever Winter Hiking Challenge! Special thanks to John Collett, who inspired the idea of a virtual hike challenge and then created and managed the online sign-up platform. Our #60in60 winter hiking challenge encouraged folks to walk, hike, or run 60 miles in 60 days, during the months of January and February. Over 300 people from ages 5 to 90 signed up for the Challenge, and helped raise over $8,000 for conservation! Congratulations to everyone who successfully completed the Challenge - we hope you enjoyed time outdoors and learned more about SAHC’s conservation work along the way.
Waterrock Knob: $15,000+ New Morning Ltd. Salesforce Roan Mountain: $10,000+ Appalachian Realty Associates Biltmore Company Eastman Mast General Store Cold Mountain: $5,000+ Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo Highland Brewing Company Parsec Financial Management RomanticAsheville.com Travel Guide Big Yellow: $2,500+ Eastman Credit Union Kee Mapping & Surveying Samsel Architects USA Raft Max Patch: $1,000+ Aloft Hotel Downtown Asheville Anchor QEA Asheville Hiking Tours Asheville Tea Company Chestnut Restaurant Corner Kitchen Equinox Environmental French Broad River Garden Club Heritage Restoration & Construction Movement Mortgage Network Computer Solutions Public Consulting Group REI Co-Op Roberts & Stevens, Attorneys at Law Second Gear Starks Financial Group Steelcase Wildwood Consulting, LLC
We are so grateful to our virtual hiking challenge sponsors!
Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo Brent and Jamie Bookwalter are conservation all-stars. Proceeds from the Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo raffle support SAHC, raising funds for conservation in a fun way. Last fall, the Pop Up Binge raised $3,000! “The Binge continues to be a way that Jamie and I stay connected with the Asheville community, and the event’s continued relationship with SAHC allows us to make a positive impact in the southern Appalachians. These mountains are a continual source of inspiration, passion, ecological diversity, as well as our favorite playground for adventure. As we became parents in 2020, we are now more than ever mindful of the future of the mountains we consider home, and we love supporting SAHC as they play a vital and hugely impactful role in conserving and preserving this beauty and value for generations to come.”
For information about becoming a Corporate Partner or participating in our Real Estate Partner Program, contact Cheryl Fowler at cheryl@appalachian.org or 828.253.0095 ext 209. 18 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 | Corporate Partners Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 18
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Memb ers’ Corn er Tributes —
as of Feb. 15, 2021 In honor of Jen Billstrom at Velogirl Rides Bixby Stewart In honor of Brent & Jamie Bookwalter Siemens Law Office, PA Bixby Stewart Susan Wienke In honor of Travis Bordley Elizabeth, Jamie & Mary Cate Kiser Kathleen Leutze In honor of John Brumit Charlotte Brumit In honor of Mike Carpenter Kathleen Carpenter In honor of Chuck & Lisa Carver Pam & Joseph Morris In honor of Elizabeth Cheesborough Jeanne & Charles Cummings In honor of Carol Coffey Bruce & Toni Byers In honor of J. Brooks Dellinger Kim Dellinger In honor of Ron & Nancy Edgerton Gail & Ron Manheimer In honor of Art & Charlotte Ellis Tom & Jo Brock In honor of Lee Galloway & Nancy Thompson Zach Galloway
In honor of Malcolm Kendall Jeanne & Charles Cummings
In honor of David Shapir Jeffrey Shapiro
In honor of Linda Kinsinger Russell Harris
In honor of Dr. & Mrs. RW Shelton Roberta & John Toole
In honor of Katie Knorovsky Michael & Rebecca Wiese In honor of Jay Leutze Michael Andrews Ann & Charlie Baker Sara Ross Burns Walter Burns III Elizabeth, Jamie & Mary Cate Kiser In honor of Kathleen Leutze Jay Leutze In honor of Popsie Lynch Megan Lynch Johnson Andrew Lynch Alison Smith In honor of Bill & Dee Dee Maxwell Fielding & Julia Lewis In honor of Arrington McCoy & Patrick Hunnicutt Carlisle Harper In honor of Timothy Moore Suzanne Moore
In honor of Carl Silverstein Randy Hunter In honor of Jasper & Ellis Tait Megan Sutton & Andy Tait In honor of Gail Underwood Melissa Fuller In honor of Kristy Urquhart & Drew Stevenson Mike & Susan Stevenson In honor of Sophronia Ward & Alan Morgan Sylvia Dry In honor of Rebecca Withrow & Brian Wurst Naomi Slifkin In honor of Oscar Wong William Melton
In honor of Eric Lee Morgan Larkin & Rosa Kirkman In honor of Judy Murray Bruce & Toni Byers In honor of Esther Pardue Bill Ryan & Lynn Bledsoe In honor of Rick Phelps Donald & Ruth Kreh In honor of Neela Ram Diana Donovan & Robert Gross
In honor of Bob Gault Ruth G. Wells
In honor of Bill Ryan Lee Ryan & Nancy Aalberg
In honor of Bruce & Charis Kabat Marge Cavanaugh
In honor of Alison & Dave Schuetze John Clark Members’ Corner | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 19
Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 19
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Me m be rs ’ Co r n er In Memoriam - John Cram
Legacy Society You can shape this region’s future with your legacy. Including a gift to SAHC in your will is a profound statement of your commitment in the present and your vision for future generations and the web of life that thrives in protected places. For more info about the Legacy Society, contact Pauline Heyne at pauline@appalachian.org. We are grateful to Roberta Jordan of Shoji Spa and Retreat, who has added SAHC to her estate planning!
A pillar of the arts community who sparked a creative revival in Asheville, John Cram supported land and water conservation in so many ways over the years - from donating ceramic arts to our Appalachian Spring events, partnering for Land Trust Day, helping protect land with the Will Henry Stevens Revolving Loan Fund, and much more. We join so many friends and family in mourning his loss. SAHC is deeply grateful to John for including us in his estate planning and leaving a significant gift for continued conservation efforts. John is a conservation hero and beloved member of our Legacy Society.
Perspective - Roberta Jordan
In Memoriam - Isbell Behrer
“Before I knew of SAHC or even the Blue Ridge or Great Smoky mountains, my earliest childhood memories of the outdoors were being carried and then walking on the A.T. with my family on Sunday afternoons.
Alice Isbell Ager Behrer passed peacefully in November, after a spirited and joyful life of 98 years. Friends and family will remember her love of people, energy, and great reverence for nature. Isbell, also known to many as “Bam,” was born in Selma, AL, and spent most of her childhood in Birmingham, AL. During the Great Depression, her family moved to Black Mountain where they embraced mountain life at their homestead, “Agers’ Acres,” located on Route 9. Isbell and husband Dr. M. Remsen Behrer lived for a time in Sewickley, PA, where she was a leader in local environmental protection initiatives. The Behrers moved back to Isbell’s beloved mountains in 1985, settling in Fairview, where she continued her environmental and community work, and was an avid hiker, camper, tennis player and friend to many.
These experiences led me to live in the mesmerizing beauty of Western North Carolina, a place I have called home for 26 years and a place on the map I value dearly. Helping preserve the uniqueness of the second oldest mountains in the world is an honor. I want my lifetime of hard work to leave a lasting measure of meaningfulness for nature and beauty of my little slice of paradise on this planet. In a time where there are so many causes to support in a needy world, giving to SAHC satisfies my goals to give where I live and where I can see the lasting effects of so many others who have come before me, ensuring we never lose these luscious mountains needing our protection. Is there anything more important than mother nature? With all that we have taken, we must give back.”
In Memoriam - George Nilsen George Nilsen, conservationist and dedicated SAHC member since the early 1980s, passed away in October at the age of 95. George and Jean Nilsen donated a 49-acre slice of heaven in the Roan Highlands to SAHC in 1984 because they wanted the land to be preserved forever. Their property, known as Little Cove Creek Farm, harbors memories of many long-time friends of the organization. SAHC’s founder Stan Murray is buried on the property, and the Nilsen’s former home has been used for many years by researchers in the Roan. In addition to his conservation legacy, George is remembered for his love of music and literature; he taught English at East Tennessee State University from 1972 to 1986.
20 | View from the Highlands 2021 Vol. 1 | Members’ Corner Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 20
3/9/21 6:50 PM
Memb ers’ Corn er
Memorials as of Feb. 15, 2021
—
Memorial contributions to SAHC honor the memory of special individuals. A memorial gift is a gift of flowers in perpetuity. You can remember your loved one by making a gift to SAHC to help permanently protect the places they loved. In memory of Jorja Aumen Sima Cooperman In memory of Isbell Ager Behrer John & Annie Ager Betty Anthony Paul & Chris Dismukes Lanier & Larry Gartland Jane Mason Martha D. Neblett June & David Nimick Patty Paster Elizabeth Shepard Liz & Terry Simmonds Peggy Standish
In memory of Martha Ann Claxton Larry & Dershie McDevitt In memory of Glenn Corley Jim Schreiber In memory of John Cram Carol Carr Leah Chang Joscelyn Hill Pat & Phil Smith In memory of Nina Grace Hite Farrell Laurel, Chris, Julia, Elias & Lucia In memory of Lucy Gump Mountain View Garden Club In memory of Ben Hall Jack and Jane Woodside In memory of Riley Howell Carol McChesney
In memory of Leonard Pardue Becky Anderson Betty and Peter Bengtson Blue Ridge Audubon Chapter Nancy Casey Katherine Fincher Gail and Paul Janensch Mary June Gail & Herman Lankford Robert Pardue Lori Pistor Ed and Suzy Rankin Bill Ryan and Lynn Bledsoe Bethany Sinnott Sally Wheeler In memory of Mr. & Mrs. JM Silverstein Lynn Silverstein
In memory of Ruth H. Kimberly Laura Kimberly
In memory of Dr. Robert Strang Howard Mize Dr. Richard Feit Kent & Jeanette Blazier Kirsten Hoskins Joseph & Mariana Maloy
In memory of Kelly Bibb Nora Murdock
In memory of John Lowndes Sally Long
In memory of Peggy Wallace Mountain View Garden Club
In memory of Stan Bobowski Doug & Kathy Pyron Tessentee Woods Property Owners Assoc.
In memory of Steve Melton Equinox Environmental staff
In memory of David K. Woodward Kendrick Weeks
In memory of George Boss Jim & Mary Allen Martin In memory of Everett Bowman Mark & Lindsay Merritt
In memory of Lib Huntley Leslie Huntley
In memory of George Moein Helen C. Gift Carole & Charlie Mauldin In memory of Stan Murray Arthur & Denise Foley Lee Hyde Members’ Corner | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 21
Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 21
3/9/21 6:50 PM
G ray ’s L il y Le a d ership Circle Named for a rare, delicate lily found on Roan Mountain in 1840, the Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle is a group of philanthropic and passionate leaders committed to land and water conservation in their community. Donors who make an annual gift of $1,000 or more join a group of generous supporters making a direct impact in protecting our globally significant landscape. These gifts provide critical funds in helping us protect the world’s oldest mountains and continue our groundbreaking conservation programs throughout the region. Thank you to all of our Leadership Circle members! Because of you – we can help ensure the beauty and character of our region will be enjoyed by all generations. Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle Members — as of February 11, 2020
Anonymous (10) Joel and Marla Adams John and Annie Ager Sheryl Aikman and Craig Plocica Michael and Catty Andry Ross and Michele Annable Bernie and Holly Arghiere Richard Baird Timothy Ballard Warren and Larissa Bare Kim Barnhardt Larry and Sarah Berglund Fred and Cleone Black Kent and Jeanette Blazier Courtney Blossman Brent and Jamie Bookwalter Clay and Leigh Bordley Dr. Jane Bramham and Dr. Camilla Collins Ida and Ken Brown Elizabeth and Kemper Brown Wes and Nancy Brown Bruce and Toni Byers Stuart Camblos Mr. and Mrs. L. Lee Chambers Matt Chambers R. Booth and Georgeanne Chapman Billy and Cindy Clarke Dumont Clarke and Shirley J. Linn Carol T. Coffey Kate and Dick Crawford
22 | View from the Highlands Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 22
John Crosland III Charitable Foundation Paul and Susan Crutchfield Jeanne and Charlie E. Cummings Patty Cunningham-Woolf and Ben Woolf Kathy and George Dambach Ken Davis and Xiaoqing Meng Sarah Davis and Stephen Edge Joe DeLoach Dr. Robert Detjen Dr. Victor G Dostrow and Ms. Renee Ethridge Dominey Phipps Drew Rick and Bridget Eckerd Nancy and Ron Edgerton Mary Ellen Edmonds Art and Charlotte Ellis David Erwin and MaryAnn Kiefer Murray Evans and Dee Montie Bill and Carol Falender Stephen and Julia Falling Mary F. Fanslow Christopher E. Farmer Sue Fernbach and Jim Rishebarger Robert and Elizabeth Fisher Priestley and Brent Ford Greg and Donna Fox Lisa and George Francisco Florrie Funk Will and Ellen Gaddy Chris and Larissa Gallaway Lee Galloway and Nancy Thompson Drs. Janet and John Garrett Mr. and Mrs. Kent Gatling
Jasmin and Peter Gentling Theodore Ghiz and Ronald Mill Jim and Jill Gibson Anne Gietzen Helen C. Gift Linda M .Good Mike and Sydney Green Clementine W. Gregory Greg and Michele Gregory David B. Hall Jack and Laurie Hamilton Keith and Tricia Hargrove Arthur and Hannah Harris Mabel S. Harvey Robert L. Harvey Lee and Jeff Hatling Miles Hayes and Jacqueline Michel Lindsay Hearn and Whitney Montgomery Carey Hedlund Lance and Nancy Herning Doug Hibshman and Beverly Cutter Ronald E. Hicks Joscelyn W. Hill Lee Hilliard Dan and Molly Hitchcock Jane and Bob Hite Ray and Beth Hohenberger Brett Hopkins and Julie McMillan Sheila and Stace Horine Jim Houser and Pat Cox Chip and Teri Hultquist Derik Hultquist John and Amy Hultquist Joseph Hultquist
2021 Vol. 1 | Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle 3/9/21 6:51 PM
Randy Hunter Dinesh & Alexandra Jain Tom Janzen and Betty Beamguard Dr. Tom Jenkins and Dr. Becca Stimson Mary and Randy Johnson Jim and Lynn Karegeannes Pam Kelley Donna and Robert Kelly Amy and John Kelso Henri Kieffer and Ann Batchelder Anne D. Kilgore Laura Kimberly James King Larkin and Rosa Kirkman Geoffrey Kitchingman John and Nancy Kramer Florence and Jack Krupnick Jerome and Barbara Kuechmann Gary and Theresa Landwirth Beth and Witt Langstaff, Jr. Mary LaVigne Jill and Joe Lawrence Scott and Meryl Lawrence Jay Leutze Kathleen E Leutze Anne and Claude Libis Glenn and Patti Liming Little Acorn Fund H Bill and Barbara Little Bill and Kim Lowndes Popsie Lynch Janice and William Maddox Rick and Rebecca Manske Marcotte Family Foundation Duston Mason and Katie Washburn John and Dee Mason David Massey Bill and Dee Dee Maxwell Patricia A. McCauley Mick and Chris McClung Nancy McConnell Laura and Mike McCue Shirley Anne McCullough Emily and Adam McDaniel John and Connie McLendon David and Jill Millar
Robert V. Miller John and Peggy Morris Josephine H. Morrison David Muerdter and Nancy Penrose Marc and Pin-Chia Murphy Marie-Louise Murphy Lotta and Ken Murray Jeffrey Needham Ed and Laura Neves Todd and Angela Newnam Rick and Lynne Noble Dennis and Carol Oakley Ed Oliver Gregory Olson and Rosalind Willis Bryan Overcarsh Kathy and Jim Overholser Esther Pardue Drs. Joanne and Tom Parker Lynn Patton Caroline Paulsen George G. Pauly Sam and Linda Pearsall George and Cathy Phillips Kert Phillips Gregg Polubinsky and Bruce Mowrey Cynthia Poortenga Mary Louise Powell L. Richardson Preyer, Jr. and Marilyn Jacobs Preyer Parker Preyer J. Crayton Pruitt Foundation Ed and Suzy Rankin Kathy and Robert Rauch Blair and Ivon D. Rohrer, Jr. Dan Rosenberg and Jen Gervais Brad Rouse and Karen Campbell Timothy Rowe and Lori Thomas Ann P. Rowell Marc Rudow and Deborah Miles John and Susie Ruhl Patra and Ken Rule Bill Ryan and Lynn Bledsoe James E. Samsel and Kim J. McGuire Joe Sasfy & Marianne Mooney William and Martha Scarborough Kurt Scheidt
Alison & Dave Schuetze Shirley Schultz Miriam “Mimi” Sexton Frank Shattuck Waid and Babbie Shelton George and Sondra Shepherd David M. Sherman Conrad Shultz & Maia Hoover Lynn Silverstein Liz and Terry Simmonds Kathy and John Singleton Dan & Evelyn Slagle David Slobodin and Jane Fant Pat and Phil Smith T.A. and Kitty Smith Chris Soto and Rex Whitfield Fred and Alice Stanback Shelli and Brad Stanback Peg and Bill Steiner Mike and Susan Stevenson Donna Sublett Tim Sweeney Jackie Tatelman and Nancy Pope Robert F. Thomas Jr. and Lori O. Thomas Craig Thompson Marilyn Thompson James Wallace Rebecca and Jason Warner Jean Webb Laura A. Webb and John R. Hoskins Peter and Ann Weigl Joseph Weintraub Family Foundation Harvey and Mary Lynn Westervelt Monwell Westphal Alan Whitehouse Jason Wicker Stephen and Kelley Wilkinson Dottie R. Williams Douglas and Patricia Williams Laurie and Tom Williams Jerry and Marcy Withrow Mary Bruce and Stephen Woody Kyle and Anne Wyatt Lach Zemp
To learn more, contact Pauline Heyne at pauline@appalachian.org or 828.253.0095 ext 216. Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle | 2021 Vol. 1 View from the Highlands | 23 Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 23
3/9/21 6:51 PM
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage
PAID
Asheville, NC Permit No. 593
372 Merrimon Avenue Asheville, NC 28801-1222 (828) 253-0095 Return Service Requested
Printed on Post Consumer Recycled Paper
Follow us online!
Have you considered including SAHC in your estate planning? Legacy gifts help ensure the permanent protection of beloved conservation lands for the future. If you have included SAHC in your estate plans, please let us know. We would like to thank you for your generosity and recognize you as a member of our Legacy Society.
Leave a Legacy...
For more information about joining our Legacy Society, contact Pauline Heyne at pauline@appalachian.org or 828.253.0095 ext 216.
Appalachian.org Winter 2020-21 newsletter.indd 24
3/9/21 6:51 PM