View from the Highlands, 2016 Winter/Annual Report Issue

View

from the Highlands

42 Years Protecting the World’s Oldest Mountains 2016 Winter/Annual Report Issue

Winter in the Highlands of Roan Photo by Travis Bordley

Conserving Mountains • Farms • Streams • Habitat

SAHC Has a New Look!

Office

34 Wall Street, Suite 502, Asheville, NC 28801-2710 828.253.0095 • FAX 828.253.1248 sahc@appalachian.org

We have a new official logo. Connecting people to the amazing places we have protected is integral to our mission — and our new logo reflects the important connection between people and land. You may see the new logo in a few different formats. We love it, and hope you will, too!

Board of Trustees Nancy Edgerton, President Jack Hamilton, Vice-President Jay Leutze, Secretary Laura McCue, Treasurer Milton “Buddy” Tignor, Jr., At-Large Courtney Blossman Patty Cunningham-Woolf Lyman “Greg” Gregory, III Jim Houser Anne Kilgore Bill Lowndes Rick Manske Robbie McLucas Jeff Needham Kathy Singleton Mary Bruce Woody

Asheville, 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 Kingsport, TN 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 Chris Link

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 Community Farm & Food Program Associate

Spencer Scheidt

Jesse Wood

Haley Smith

Teagan Dolan

AmeriCorps Stewardship & Volunteer Associate AmeriCorps Stewardship & Volunteer Associate AmeriCorps Conservation Education & Volunteer Associate AmeriCorps Land Protection & Education Associate

Appalachian Trail Highlands Countryside of Roan French Black Broad River Mountains Smoky Mountains Valley

Balsam Mountains

Map: SAHC Focus Areas. Over the past 42 years, we have protected over 69,000 acres across ten counties in North Carolina and Tennessee.

Highlights: Letter from the

Director

• New Land Protection Updates (pages 4-7) Broad Branch Davis Farm Reeves Homeplace Farm • Our Community Farm (pages 8-9)

Looking back over our success stories from the past year, we are thrilled to connect with so many passionate supporters, volunteers, and partners — all of whom contribute to conservation successes in our beloved Southern Appalachians.

• Feral Hogs in the Roan (page 10)

Read about some of our recent land protection projects in the Highlands of Roan and French Broad River Focus Areas on pages 4-7, including a historic, 318-acre farm in Madison County that has been in the same family for over 160 years.

• Hampton Creek Cove Updates (pages 12-13)

We are also pleased to share updates from our Community Farm (pg. 8-9) and from ongoing stewardship activities in the Highlands of Roan (pg. 10-14).

We look forward to celebrating our achievements with you at our Annual Appalachian Spring Membership Event in May, or enjoying a day of invigorating hikes in the scenic Highlands of Roan during the June Jamboree on June 11.

Please be sure to sign-up for our monthly e-News alerts, and get updates about these - and more - upcoming hikes and events.

Thank YOU ALL for helping us achieve our Annual Giving goal of $160,000, so we can continue an exciting year for conservation in 2016.

Carl Silverstein Executive Director

The mission

• Conservation Field Journal (page 11)

• Stan Murray, AT Hall of Fame (page 14) • Upcoming Events/Outreach (page 15) • Partnership in the Business Community (pages 16-17) • Members’ Corner (pages 18-19) • Annual Report (pages 20-31)

For recent updates, visit us at Appalachian.org and follow us online.

Do you have a photo or story to share?

We love to hear from our members.

Contact us at sahc@appalachian.org.

of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is to conserve the unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for people to enjoy outdoor recreation in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee for the benefit of present and future generations. We achieve this by forging and maintaining long-term conservation relationships with private landowners and public agencies, owning and managing land and encouraging healthy local communities.

View from the Highlands | 3

L a n d P r o t e c t i o n U P D AT E S This 48-acre forested parcel, which was previously slated for development, is now permanently protected.

Broad Branch

New SAHC land protection project

Pisgah National Forest

Other SAHC-protected lands

Highlands of Roan Focus Area

Broad Branch Located less than 2 miles from the Appalachian Trail and the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Gardens, the 48-acre Broad Branch tract adjoins Pisgah National Forest and contains a broad mix of habitat. We acquired it in December, and plan to own and manage it for long-term forest health and water quality.

“This tract shares a nearly one-half mile boundary with Pisgah National Forest,” said Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese. “It certainly earns the description of ‘highlands,’ with elevations exceeding 4,500 feet where it joins the National Forest.”

Located within the state-designated Roan Mountain Massif Natural Area, the tract is forested with mature trees and potential habitat for rare plant and animal species.

Approximately 75% of the property falls within the Roan Mountain Important Bird Area, as designated by the National Audubon Society.

A headwater tributary of Broad Branch originates in the adjoining Pisgah National Forest and flows through the property, emptying into Big Rock Creek (classified as Trout waters by the NC Division of Water Resources). SAHC will complete a biological inventory and protect the water and forest resources.

“The tract was slated for development,” continued Pugliese, “but SAHC was able to work with the developers to purchase the land for conservation. It’s a great example of conservation serving as a viable alternative to an unrealized development.”

A headwater tributary of Broad Branch runs through the property, emptying into the trout waters of Big Rock Creek.

What is the Roan Mountain Important Bird Area?

Important Bird Areas (IBA) are designated areas of state, national, or global importance, which are prioritized for conservation because they provide critical habitat for threatened, endangered, or declining bird species. The Roan Mountain IBA has among the great diversity of birds in the NC and TN mountains. To date, 188 species have been recorded, 31 of which are high priority species.

On a short, late-morning visit to the Broad Branch tract, Roan Stewardship staff recently heard Blue-headed Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Ovenbird, Gray Catbird, and Red-breasted Nuthatch — as well as three birds on the Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture conservation priority list: Wood Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, and Eastern Wood PeeWee. Gray Catbird, photo by Witt Langstaff, Jr.

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L a n d P r o t e c t i o n U P D AT E S The rolling pasture hills of the Davis Farm will provide excellent habitat for wildlife.

Davis Tract SAHC assisted the NC Wildlife Resource Commission in purchasing a 29-acre portion of the Davis Tract for inclusion in the state-owned and managed Sandy Mush Game Lands. The property will be preserved in perpetuity, and managed for native wildlife habitat.

“This purchase is a great example of SAHC preserving a family farm for use as public gamelands,” said Farmland Program Director William Hamilton. “The great thing about this transaction is that the public will be able to enjoy this property for hunting, hiking, and wildlife viewing.”

The transaction was a partnership between the SAHC and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). The Commission can access federal funds generated by the Pittman-Robertson Act to acquire tracts, provided 25% of the purchase price is raised from private sources as a match. SAHC was able to bring 25% of the purchase price to the table by raising generous philanthropic gifts from private donors.

French Broad River Valley Focus Area

and shortleaf pine to encourage quail, grouse, turkey, deer, Northern Bobwhite, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Kingbird, Prairie Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, and Field Sparrow.

“Very little game land in western North Carolina is early successional habitat, so anytime we can add more open grasslands to public ownership, its a big deal,” continued Hamilton.

“Partnering with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to leverage Federal Pittman-Robertson funds was a good experience, and we thank David Stuart of the NCWRC and Randy Davis for their hard work and persistence in completing the transaction.”

“My family has owned this land since 1946. It was a working farm as I was growing up, and looking back I experienced a wonderful childhood and have great memories. I inherited this tract from my parents. When I decided to sell I knew I wanted the beauty and unobstructed views to be maintained. Knowing the Sandy Mush Game Lands were adjacent to the property I contacted SAHC to gauge their interest, and they immediately started the process as it was a perfect fit for what they wanted to accomplish. Fortunately, the purchase was executed and I am very happy it is part of SAHC as this area is part of my family heritage.”

Landowner Randy Davis

Fre n

ch Bro ad R Sandy Mush iver Game Lands

The tract will be managed for the reintroduction of native grasses

Davis Farm

New SAHC land protection project Davis Farm in the foreground, with Sandy Mush Gamelands in the background.

Sandy Mush Gamelands

Other SAHC-protected lands

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L a n d P r o t e c t i o n U P D AT E S

French Broad River Valley Focus Area Lower elevation pastures of the Reeves Homeplace Farm are used in fall and winter.

Reeves Homeplace Farm We protected 318 acres at the Reeves Homeplace Farm in Madison County, completing a farmland conservation effort begun in 2010.

The historic family farm has been in the Reeves family for over 160 years and is now permanently protected by an agricultural conservation easement.

“This project represents five years of hard work by the land trust, the landowner, and the agencies involved,” said Farmland Program Director William Hamilton.

“This farm is representative of agriculture in Western North Carolina, and we are thrilled that the Reeves family will be able to continue owning, living and farming on this land in the future.”

Located in the Little Sandy Mush community amidst a scenic landscape of family farms, the property was part of a US land grant that once encompassed a much larger area. Landowner Betty Reeves is a 6th generation member of the Reeves family to farm the land, and she wanted to protect it with an agricultural conservation easement so that it would be a resource for current and future farmers.

The farm has a stretch of fertile bottomland soil, once used for producing row crops. Over the years, the farm produced tobacco, tomatoes, silage corn, feeder pigs, cattle and hay.

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The historic Reeves family home was built with bricks produced on the farmstead.

“People are always going to need healthy food to eat, and if we use all the land for development, we won’t have anywhere to farm,” said Betty. “When you think about it, we’re not getting any more land.”

Betty had worked the land alongside her husband, lifetime farmer Burder Reeves, who passed away a few years ago. Both Betty and Burder have been inducted into the NC Mountain State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame — Betty in September 2015 and Burder in 2010.

Continuing the family tradition, one of their daughters, Robin, manages a diverse enterprise on the farm today, producing cattle, hay, and pasture-raised broilers and turkeys.

“Developers have offered substantial sums for this place, but Daddy never wanted it to be sold,” recalls Robin. “He wanted it to stay in the family, and wanted to see it continue to be used as farmland.”

The recently protected property consists of distinct parcels, each necessary for the farm operation: a lower-elevation farmstead in the valley and a high-elevation mountain field used as summer grazing pasture, rising to 4,544 ft. above sea level. The cattle graze on the mountain pastures from May to October, flourishing with cooler temperatures, less insect pressure, and nutrient-rich native blue grass.

Conservation of the Reeves Homeplace Farm also protects water quality in the region, including Fall Branch, a significant tributary to Little Sandy Mush Creek.

L a n d P r o t e c t i o n U P D AT E S

Reeves Homeplace Farm

The higher elevation mountain pastures are used in summer, where cattle flourish because of lower temperatures, rich native blue grass, and less insect pressure.

“We are grateful to the partners involved who helped make this happen,” said Hamilton. “Their programs provide necessary financial incentives for a landowner to permanently restrict their land from subdivision and development.”

The Reeves Homeplace Farm conservation project was made possible by funding from the USDA — Natural Resource Conservation Service Federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program; the NC Department of Agriculture — Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund; and generous philanthropic

New SAHC land protection project

gifts from private donors.

Other SAHC-protected lands The project brought the first federal and state funds specifically for the purpose of purchasing an agricultural conservation easement to Madison County.

“SAHC is proud that we serve the community in this way,” added Hamilton. “ We competed for grants across the nation and the state to bring these resources to Madison County to protect this historic valley farm and scenic mountain grazing land.”

Protecting the land also protects water

quality in the French Broad River watershed.

Part of a Farming Family Robin and Betty Reeves are as incredible a pair of ladies as one will find in the hollers and hills of Sandy Mush. Robin considers herself lucky because as a teenager she was able to raise produce – like green beans – to sell to Ingles grocery stores for “spending Robin continues the family tradition of money” instead of getting a job in fast food. raising cattle on the farm.

“Selling to Ingles as a teenager gave me confidence Robin and Betty Reeves (L to R) and the foundation to realize that I could succeed in a farm business,” she said. Her first forays into farming came even earlier. Starting around age 11 or 12, Robin showed cattle through 4-H at the Mountain State Fair, with the support of her parents. She quickly demonstrated a talent for it and regularly won awards until she aged out of the competition at 21. “You have to do all the handling yourself,” she recalls, “Gentle them, groom and feed them, and get them calm enough to show in an arena, with the loudspeaker blaring and all the people and noise.”

Betty and Robin are still very much supporters of youth programs like the Future Farmers of America and 4-H. Betty emphasizes that it is important for our future to have both “people and the land to farm.”

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O u r C O M M U N I T Y FA R M Guests from the Southeast Council of Foundations Regional Meeting enjoyed an autumn tour of the farm.

Our Community Farm Our Community Farm continues its success! Last fall, our incubator farmers continued growing their operations; volunteers assisted in our shortleaf pine and stream restoration projects; and many guests flocked to tour the farm and see what we’ve been doing.

Farmer Incubator Program The vegetable producers of Second Spring Market Garden exceeded their financial goals for their first year in our Incubator Program. They had a 40+ member CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) subscription, expanded to selling salad mix through 11 local restaurants, and sold produce at two farmers’ markets.

They are producing throughout this winter.

Cattle operation owner Gina Raicovich continues to grow her Pineywoods herd. Five healthy calves were born on the farm over the past few months, with one more expected soon. As one of our workshops, we demonstrated how to build a livestock corral for effectively and safely loading, treating, and checking the health of Five Pineywoods calves were born on the farm. livestock on the farm.

Volunteers and Guests on the Farm

FBRA student volunteers

Volunteer reseed the stream area.

out on our Community Farm!

We’ve hosted 9 farm tours with 140 guests over the past few months, including the French Broad River Garden Club, the Southeast Council of Foundations Regional Meeting, and the Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle.

Students from French Broad River Academy volunteered in the short leaf pine reforestation project, removing competing species.

Volunteers also helped reseed sensitive areas within our stream restoration project. With their help, we now have established vegetative erosion control in those areas. Thank you all for helping

Farm Workshops We hosted 3 educational workshops this past quarter, covering: how to build a black soldier fly digester, the benefits and use of a BCS walk-behind tractor, and basics of low-stress cattle handling.

During the first workshop, Community Farm and Food Program Associate Chris Link constructed a ‘black soldier fly digester’ and demonstrated how to attract this native, non-pest species to manage biosolids. In a medium-sized digester (such as the one we built), black soldier fly larvae can digest 80 lbs of solid bio material waste per day, and the pupae stage can be collected for a nutritious Chris explains how to construct a ramp food source for small livestock like chickens, pigs, and fish.

Filling the digester with vegetable waste

to collect pupae in the walking stage for small livestock feed.

We plan to host more educational workshops on our Community Farm in 2016.

Visit Appalachian.org or follow us on Facebook for updates!

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O u r C O M M U N I T Y FA R M

Community Farm Workshop: Tools for the Farm

Two-wheel, “Walk-Behind” Tractors Why choose a two-wheel tractor for your home garden or small farmstead, instead of a standard four-wheel tractor or tiller?

This small but mighty tractor is a versatile investment. With over forty implements available, it is designed to be an all-inone performer for hobby farms, market gardeners, and backyard homesteaders alike.

It is a favorite around the world, known for comparative ease of maintenance and operation, with a lower initial price that puts it within reach of beginning and small-scale growers.

“The two-wheel tractor is just right for many operations — not too big and not too small,” said Community Farm & Food Program Associate Chris Link. “They are also particularly nimble and user-friendly on our hillsides and small pathways, and therefore, more efficient when you are working with a compact site.”

Last fall, Chris led a workshop demonstrating two-wheel tractors at our Community Farm.

“I first saw the two-wheel tractor used at a farm in Maine, which was scaled as a market garden around a homestead, under three acres,” he continued. “This is the size farm that is feasible for two people farming.

Although many farmers will scale up to larger acreages in time, others who practice

intensive growing methods will stay right around this size and will not need larger equipment.”

Benefits and Main Features A two-wheel tractor is designed to attach many different implements in order to perform a variety of tasks, in contrast to the more traditional method of using multiple dedicated tractors/machines for each task.

Less time, and money, are necessary to acquire, learn to safely operate, maintain and store walk-behind, two-wheel machine.

Ease of switching multi-tasking implements and ease of switching implements is a major benefit of these smaller machines.

“The two-wheel tractor works best for a growing area between 5,000 SF and 3-5 acres.

It is great for smaller, tighter cultivated areas because of its small turning radius,” explained Link.

Community Farm and Food Associate Chris Link explains how to connect and operate various attachments which make the twowheel tractor a versatile and efficient tool for small farms.

Some of the most common implements for two wheel tractors include: • Rotary Plow, Tiller, Power Harrow • Wood Chipper, Wood Splitter • Snow Blower, Snow Blade, Power Sweeper • Rotary mower/Flail mower/ Sickle Bar • Root Digger • Power Washer • Utility Trailer, Sulky

Special features that come standard include: reversing handlebars, lockable differential with steering brakes, quick-attach coupling, and being completely gear-driven.

“As with traditional tractors, safety is paramount: all the same rules apply when it comes to safety when operating this smaller tractor as a larger one — it is still a tractor.”

Demonstrating the utility trailer attachment.

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C o n s e r v at i o n I N A C T I O N Roan Stewardship Director Marquette Crockett surveys feral hog damage on Yellow Mountain.

Feral Hogs in the Roan

SAHC and our Roan Stewardship partners met in summer 2014 to discuss the growing threat posed by the invasion of feral hogs into our mountain landscapes and how to combat their spread.

These non-native animals threaten the health of our ecosystems including impacting rare species, destroying fragile habitats, and contaminating water sources. Since then, we and our partners have made important strides in addressing the issue of feral hogs in the Roan.

“Working with our partners, including USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service - Wildlife Services (APHIS), we began initial monitoring and trapping efforts on the Roan in winter 2014,” said Crockett. Those efforts were quite successful — hogs were documented, trapped, tested for disease, and removed from both Mitchell and Avery counties. A number of trapped hogs tested positive for either Swine brucellosis or Pseudorabies.

where feral swine populations are large and widely distributed,” explained Crockett. “In States where feral swine are emerging or populations are low, APHIS will cooperate with local partners to implement strategies to eliminate them. SAHC’s existing, multi-agency partnerships in the Roan qualified us to submit the Roan Highlands project for consideration under the new APHIS program.”

“Feral hogs can spread disease to humans, our pets, and livestock,” added Crockett.

About the same time that SAHC and our partners began coordinating efforts in the Roan, the problems caused by feral hogs gained national attention. In 2015, APHIS received federal funding to implement a collaborative, national feral swine management program in all 39 states where there is a recognized feral swine population. The overarching goal of this APHIS National Feral Swine Damage Management Program is to protect agricultural and natural resources, property, animal health, and human health and safety by reducing feral swine populations in the United States.

“APHIS will reduce problems by suppressing populations in states

Feral hogs destroy fragile habitats and threaten the health of native species and ecosystems in the Roan.

Our submission was approved for 20152016, and the Roan Highlands project is now up and running. We have more than 12 agencies and organizations (and several private individuals) actively contributing to trapping, monitoring, and research efforts on the Roan — including USDA APHIS (North Carolina), USDA APHIS (Tennessee), Pisgah National Forest, Cherokee National Forest, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, North Carolina State

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Parks, Tennessee State Parks, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (natural areas), Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, the Nature Conservancy, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and Virginia Tech.

In 2016, SAHC will continue to coordinate the Roan Feral Hog Working Group and support trapping and monitoring work. We hired Kaitlin Shannon, an intern from UNC Asheville, to install and check wildlife cameras for hog activity, and we are partnering with students from Virginia Tech and other universities to study hog diet and movement on the Roan. This year, we will also work with our partners to focus on educating landowners, farmers, hunters, and recreationists about the dangers and impacts posed by feral hogs.

“By using a large-scale, multi-agency approach, we hope to eradicate this destructive species from our mountains,” concluded Crockett.

Want to Learn More?

SAHC will host a free, public presentation on feral hog eradication on Wednesday March 9 from noon - 1:30 pm at the Kingsport Renaissance Center (Room 228).

For more info, contact Marquette Crockett at marquette@appalachian.org or 828.253.0095 ext 210.

C o n s e r va t i o n

Field Journal

On the Roan wit

h K aitlin Shanno

As a current student at

n, Roan Stewardsh

UNC Asheville, it has be en

ip Intern

my pleasure to serve an internship with SAHC. In May I will complete my B.S. in Environmen tal Studies, with a conc entration in Ecology an d Field Biology. For me, this in ternship has been a segway from the classroo m into the hands-on approach of conservatio n field work. I worked in conjunction with grad uate students of Virginia Tech and mem bers of APHIS to design a study to monitor feral hog populations in and around the Roan H ighlands. It’s been my Kaitlin Shannon job to hike to the specifi experiments with ed locations and set up natural camouflage as sh e helps install an d monitor wildlife cameras to track feral ho wildlife cameras to dete g activity. ct the presence of hogs — which is important because once we have no ted where the majority of th e hog populations are lo cated, we can more effec tively plan to remove th em.

I’ve gained experience with so much more than simply helping to design a study. Most importantly I’ve been ab le to surround myself w ith the land that SAHC works so diligently to pr otect.

It’s clear as you ascend to the peak of Big Yello w that you’re standing in a very special, sacred place.

The damage caused by these hogs cannot go un noticed, and I am hono red to be apart of a team working to mend such an important place.

SAHC is such a unique land trust and I encour age anyone who is curio us about the work that they do to take the time to volunteer.

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C o n s e r v at i o n I N A C T I O N Multiple publicly-accessible hiking trails cross through the cove.

A Hidden Gem in Tennessee

Hampton Creek Cove

The 693-acre Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area (HCC SNA) is a breathtaking haven for wildlife with ample opportunity for outdoor recreation. Time spent visiting the pastoral cove, trekking the miles of hiking trails, or fishing cold trout streams will be well spent. Check out these recent updates from the cove!

Golden-winged Warbler Habitat Restoration Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area is one of only three state natural areas in the Blue Ridge province of Tennessee and is home to one of the largest breeding populations of Golden-winged Warblers (GWWA) in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

The Golden-winged Warbler is a

Golden-winged Warbler

species in need of additional conservation management, and is undergoing review by the US Fish and Wildlife Service for potential listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. Because HCC is so important to this warbler, the National Audubon Society designated it an “Important Bird Area� in 2005. The Goldenwinged Warbler, along with many other important game and non-game bird species, relies on early successional, scrubby habitats for breeding and nesting. Past efforts to restore early successional habitat in Hampton Creek Cove SNA have focused on shrub management, tree thinning, and native grass restoration.

In 2015, SAHC and our partners

at North Carolina Audubon and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation received a generous grant from the Tennessee State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, which enabled us to manage seven acres of early successional habitat in HCC. The newly managed area is adjacent to a field that was previously restored by mowing and native grass restoration. It also adjoins habitat known to occupied

by GWWA. We believe our recent work in this area will provide immediate benefits to the species.

Installation of Hiker Stiles Several trails traverse Hampton Creek Cove SNA. The Birchfield Trail and the Shell Hollow Trail are popular birding

About Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area SAHC purchased the tract and transferred it to the State of Tennessee in 1986. Designated a State Natural Area, the cove is a critical part of the Highlands of Roan, with 500 forested acres, 25 acres of grasslands, and 100 acres of pasture. SAHC shares in management of HCC, which is home to more than 200 species of plants and 89 species of birds, including 44 neotropical migratory species. It is one of the two main population centers for Golden-winged Warblers in TN. The Left Prong of Hampton Creek is considered one of the most productive native trout streams in East Tennessee and has undergone brook trout restoration directed by Trout Unlimited and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Almost seven miles of trails are open to the public throughout the cove, including a stretch of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail.

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C o n s e r v at i o n I N A C T I O N spots, due to the variety of habitats found along their routes. The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail — the historic route of the Overmountain The hiker stiles in HCC were designed and built by Paul Cremer Men in their of Carolina Trailbuilders, from Weaverville, NC. march to the Revolutionary War’s 1780 Battle of King’s Mountain — also runs through the cove. Because the trails at Hampton Creek Cove traverse agricultural areas, hikers must pass through a series of farm gates.

These gates can be difficult to open and can be left open, allowing livestock to enter areas where they should not be, and potentially injuring themselves or causing damage to sensitive wildlife species.

Volunteers constructed a new informational kiosk area near Carvers Gap.

Round Bald Kiosk Installation

We installed three hiker stiles on the busiest sections of trail in HCC. The stiles are based on a design that has been used successfully along the Appalachian Trail in Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area, VA. This design does not require hikers to climb over fencing (a safety hazard) and is built to ensure that the gate will swing closed even if a hiker forgets to latch it behind him or her. Our work was sponsored by a grant from the Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation “connections” grant program which funds greenway or trail projects connecting nearby communities to Tennessee’s beautiful State Parks and Natural Areas. Since 1999, the Tennessee State Park Connections program has awarded over 193 grants statewide totaling over $300,000.

Small Game Hunting In fall 2015, the State of TN reopened Hampton Creek Cove SNA for hunting on a limited basis.

Hunters are allowed to take wild turkey, grouse, rabbits, squirrel and other small game. Deer hunting (archery only) has also Wild Turkey been authorized for the site. No dogs, ATVs, or other motorized vehicles are allowed in the natural area and hunting must be conducted in accordance with current State of Tennessee Hunting Seasons and Regulations.

The Highlands of Roan are home to some of the most unique and globally rare ecosystems in the world, including montane grassy balds and spruce-fir communities. The Highlands are also one of the richest repositories of biodiversity in the southern Appalachians and support many rare plant and animal populations, including both state and federally-listed species. SAHC and our partners recognize that as recreational uses in the Roan increase, so does the importance of educating users about environmentally conscientious hiking and camping practices. This summer, SAHC and our partners took a step toward doing just that by building an educational kiosk at the entrance to the Trail on Round Bald, near the popular Carvers Gap access.

The construction of this kiosk was made possible by the cooperation of many partners.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Tennessee license plate grant program provided SAHC with funds for purchasing the bulk of building materials. The US Forest Service, Pisgah National Forest constructed the kiosks, and the Cherokee National Forest created the posters. Eastman Chemical Company donated Spectar© UV-resistant plastic to cover the posters. The final installation and gravel work was completed by volunteers from SAHC and Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club.

We hope the kiosk will be a helpful educational resource and we look forward to working with all of our partners on future educational projects in the Roan!

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C o n s e r v at i o n I N A C T I O N Federal Legislation: Conservation Tax Incentives & LWCF In December, the US Congress passed and the president signed into law legislation making the enhanced tax incentive for conservation easement donations permanent.

First enacted as a temporary provision in 2006 (which expired in 2014), the incentive grants certain tax benefits to landowners who sign a conservation easement. In a strong bipartisan action, the House voted 318-109 and the Senate voted 65-33 to pass the bills that included the tax incentive.

Protection of Rocky Fork Creek was made possible by the LWCF. Photo by Ken Maness.

Also in December, Congress passed an omnibus spending bill that included temporary, 3-year reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which had expired in September.

“Looking forward we all need to make sure that Congress understands that short-term fixes are welcome, but that our threatened natural heritage calls for a permanent solution,” said SAHC Trustee Jay Leutze. “I’m really proud that several members of our region’s Congressional delegation stood up and let leadership in both houses know how important public land is here at home.”

Inducted into AT Hall of Fame

Stanley A. Murray SAHC founder Stan Murray was inducted into the Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame last year, and retired Roan Stewardship Director Judy Murray traveled to Boiling Springs, PA (the “Half-way” point on the AT) to accept the award in his behalf.

Stanley A. Murray, along with the AT. His work on the Tennessee Benton McKaye and Myron Avery, Eastman Hiking Club’s relocation of was one of the most important the AT over Roan and the formation individuals in the early history of the of the ATC’s Roan Mountain Appalachian Trail.

Preservation Committee in 1966 led to the 1974 incorporation of SAHC When construction of the with the goal of protecting thousands Appalachian Trail was first of acres along the Roan Mountain “completed” in 1937, it was about 45% on private property, and Myron Massif from development. Murray served as President of SAHC for 11 Avery, while proclaiming the trail years and was the first Executive “finished,” stated that it would never Director. He passed away in 1990 at be really finished until it received the age of 67.

Federal protection.

Decades later, Stanley A. Murray worked to accomplish just that.

He wrote a draft bill and lobbied Congress, playing a major role in getting the National Trails System Act passed in 1968. Murray served as Chairman of the Appalachian Trail Conference (ATC) for 14 years.

He envisioned more than just a narrow footpath for the AT, and advocated the “greenway” concept to protect a wider corridor around the Trail. Murray was especially concerned with how to preserve Roan Mountain and the balds in the Highlands of Roan on the NC/TN state line, and personally focused much of his energy on that area of

“To have this prestigious honor conferred on our organization’s founder is indeed thrilling,” said Executive Director Carl Silverstein.

“We are proud to continue his legacy of land protection in this unique, treasured landscape, and are gratified that the importance of Stan’s work has been recognized nationally.”

Stan Murray Memorial plaque at Houston Ridge, along the AT

1 4 | 2 0 1 6 Wi n t e r Is s u e

Events & OUTREACH

C a lenda r

Successful Bookwalter Binge!

Upcoming Hikes and Events

With 182 riders and over $5,400 raised for conservation, the first annual Bookwalter Binge was a resounding success!

Riders enjoyed the scenic mountain route.

Photo credit: Lubov Brym with Tom Bryum on Moto

We are extremely grateful for the sponsors and volunteers who helped make the 2015 Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo a success.

“SAHC protects and preserves the scenic mountains, water, views and trails that make this unique corner of the world what it is,” said Brent Bookwalter. “This environment and these mountains inspire me everyday and have gone a long way in shaping the person I am and the values I hold dear. I feel thanks and gratitude that SAHC is looking out for these amazing places so they stay what they are for generations to come. “ The concept of a beautiful and demanding route, riding with Pros in a relatively relaxed setting, and a charity purpose were all well received by riders. With its

focus on procuring services locally, and the charitable contribution, the event made an overall economic impact in our community of over $63,000.

“We chose SAHC for our charity partner because SAHC has the same vision as we do: we believe passionately in protecting wild habitat and special farm land in the southeast from development,” added Jamie Bookwalter. “It’s important to us that our donations make a tangible difference in our community. SAHC has a proven record in being very effective in their conservation efforts.”

SAHC is pleased to continue our relationship with the Bookwalter Binge this year. The 2016 ride will be held on October 29.

Hike with Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

Date: Monday, Feb. 15 | Time: 10 am | Difficulty: Strenuous Where: Near Black Mountain, NC | Cost: Free; registration required Join SAHC and Brother Wolf for a 5-mile hike within the protected forests of the Laurel Ridge Community. We will ascend through Southern and Central Appalachian Oak Forests and Cove Forests, crossing by some lovely streams, small waterfalls and rock formations.

On the day of the hike, hikers will choose a dog from the Brother Wolf adoption center and take them along for a walk in the woods. This opportunity allows the dogs to get outside and stretch their legs and will give them a day full of the love and attention they deserve!

For more information or to register for guided hikes, contact Haley Smith at 828.253.0095 ext. 205 or haley@appalachian.org.

“For Love of Beer & Mountains” Devils Britches Hike Saturday, February 13 Hike with Brother Wolf Monday, February 15 Feral Hog Eradication Presentation Wednesday, March 9 Appalachian Spring Membership Celebration Thursday, May 19 Land Trust Day/ National Trails Day Saturday, June 4 June Jamboree Saturday, June 11 Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle Reception Sunday, October 2 Bookwalter Binge Bike Ride Saturday, October 29 We add hikes and workshops between printings of the newsletter. Sign up for our monthly e-News at Appalachian.org, and be sure to check the website or follow us on Facebook for updates and more events!

View from the Highlands | 15

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” Partnership Highland Brewing Company partners with SAHC to support conservation efforts and heighten awareness of the unique and fragile natural treasures of the Southern Appalachians. Highland donates a portion of sales from each seasonal release party, and works with SAHC to co-lead hikes and offer educational opportunities about the regional namesakes for which the “For Love of Beer & Mountains” brews are named.

Devil’s Britches Hike

Date: Saturday, Feb. 13 | Time: 10 am | Difficulty: Moderate Where: Cataloochee Ranch, NC | Cost: Free; registration required The Devil’s Britches hike takes place at the beautiful Cataloochee Ranch, and is the inspiration for the naming of Highland’s seasonal Devil’s Britches IPA. We will walk up to Hemphill Bald to enjoy lunch with fine vistas of the Plott Balsam Range, Soco Gap and much more.

This moderate 5-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation change of 900 feet begins on a road used for hiking and horseback riding. Expect to see mountain streams and lovely cove hardwood forest mixed at times with hemlock stands and the ever present rhododendron and mountain laurel. At the top of the ridge the woods are replaced by open high altitude pastureland and there is the chance for superb views of four counties and a number of mountain tops including Cold Mountain, Crabtree Bald, Mt. Pisgah and many others. The only difficult part of the hike is the last climb to the top. At the top is a stone table, moved there by Tom Alexander, Jr. and placed in memory of his parents, Tom and Judy Alexander, founders of Cataloochee Ranch.

New Seasonal: Saw-whet Saison Highland Brewing Company’s Saw-whet Saison is named for the Northern Sawwhet Owl, a native species of owl that lives at higher elevations of the Southern Appalachians. The smallest owl in the eastern United States, it is 7 to 8 inches tall, including the tail. Breeding populations have been found in the Mt. Mitchell area in the Black Mountains and in the Highlands of Roan, both important SAHC conservation focus areas. We plan to lead a hike into Saw-whet habitat later this year — check Appalachian.org for details.

For more information or to register for this hike, contact Haley Smith at 828.253.0095 ext. 205 or haley@appalachian.org.

Donate your used gear consignment to SAHC — At Second Gear in Asheville Long-time business supporters at Second Gear in Asheville have come up with a unique way for you to support SAHC. Bring in your gently used, unwanted gear for consignment and designate your proceeds to go to SAHC. When the item sells, Second Gear will notify SAHC, and we will provide you with an in-kind charitable gift receipt. For info and directions to the store, visit secondgearwnc.com.

1 6 | 2 0 1 6 Wi n t e r Is s u e

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

Corporate Partner Profile: We are extremely grateful for the support provided by our Corporate Partners! In this issue, we highlight Causeway Interactive, which supports SAHC at the “Cold Mountain” level.

Causeway Interactive provides technical support, technology consulting, and database development. Kirk Watson founded the company for the purpose of using technology to address persistent organizational and capacity-building problems within the nonprofit sector. Its integrated set of solutions targets the most significant and powerful ways to improve an organization with the least pain: Think acupuncture as opposed to a triple-bypass.

Corporate Partners & Giving Levels Mt. Mitchell: $25,000+ See your name here!

Waterrock Knob: $15,000+ Highland Brewing Company New Morning Ltd. Salesforce Roan Mountain: $10,000+ Conservation Advisors of NC Mast General Store

“Increasingly, nonprofit organizations have a wide array of tools to choose from that can help them reach new audiences, engage their constituents, raise money and simplify day-to-day operations,” says Kirk Watson, Principal and Founder of Causeway Interactive. “We partner with our clients to help them find the right technology platforms for their needs, implement those solutions and train them for success.”

Cold Mountain: $5,000+ Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo Causeway Interactive Eastman Chemical Company Kee Mapping & Surveying Strader Fencing, Inc

Whether the task is evaluating your current donor database, finding the right email outreach software, or figuring out how your staff can collaborate together more effectively, they have the knowledge, relationships and resources to help you.

Big Yellow: $2,500+ Addison Farms Vineyards Brunk Auctions First Citizens Bank Jubilee! Community Mamacita’s Taqueria

“It has been a real joy working with the team at SAHC and I’m pleased that Causeway could help them streamline aspects of their land management and fundraising databases.

As a native Texan, I’ve seen first-hand the impact that poorly thought out, or non-existent, land management policies can have on local communities, cultures and the environment. It’s difficult to overstate the importance of the work SAHC does to help protect our region and I’m pleased that Causeway could play a small part in advancing that work.”

Kirk Watson, Principal and Founder of Causeway Interactive

Welcome, New Business Members!

Active Lifestyle Products & Services, Inc. Asheville Sports, Inc. Beach Builders, Inc. Carolina Mountain Properties, LLC Jessica Larsen

Law office of Jordan C Hoyer, PLLC Medalists Sports, LLC Mountain Inspiration Mountain Merch Park Ridge Health Purity Foundation

Saunders & Saunders, D.D.S., PLLC Siemens Law Office, PA The Gear Attic Traveling Chic Boutique Worley & Peltz, PLLC

Max Patch: $1,000+ Chef Peter Affatato Altamont Environmental Catawba Brewing Co. Equinox Environmental Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens French Broad River Garden Club Foundation Keith Hargrove Architect PC Lululemon USA, Inc. Navitat Canopy Adventures Network Computer Solutions Roberts & Stevens, Attorneys at Law Samsel Architects Starks Financial Group USA Raft

View from the Highlands | 17

Members’ CORNER

Tributes

A tribute gift is a special way to honor someone.

In honor of Amanda & Jig Melissa Sullivan In honor of the “Awesome SAHC family!”

Caitlin & Will Hopkins In honor of John Berngartt Susan B. Brown In honor of Elizabeth Cheesborough Charles & Jeanne Cummings In honor of the SAHC Community Farm French Broad River Garden Club Foundation In honor of Andy Dempsey Roberts & Stevens, PA In honor of Nancy Edgerton Susan Roderick In honor of Bob Gault Beth Wells In honor of Robert “Bob” Harvey Judy Murray & Tom Gatti In honor of Thomas & Susan Jones Kenyon & Mary Helen Kelly-Cline In honor of Malcolm Kendall Charles & Jeanne Cummings In honor of Laura McCue Charles & Jeanne Cummings In honor of Walter Copley McLean Mr. & Mrs. William McLean In honor of Roy & Ann Meador Toni Meador In honor of Frony Ward & Allan Morgan Sylvia Dry In honor of Stan Murray Judy Murray & Tom Gatti In honor of Bill Ryan Lee Ryan & Nancy Aalberg In honor of David Smith & family Pat Dunn & Lee Ann Smith In honor of Jasper & Ellis Tait Megan Sutton & Andy Tait In honor of Bill & Carol Watterson Eric Watterson In honor of Dave Werle Starks Financial Group

1 8 | 2 0 1 6 Wi n t e r Is s u e

Welcome, New Members!

Suki Affatato Steve Bagby Stacey Bailey David & Mary Anne Baker Rocky Beach Tom & Kay Beardsley Jan Beech Justin Berger Rita Blankenbecler Donald & Judith Bliss Alex Bond Robert Bowman James & Katherine Brinkman Ken & Ida Brown Kevin & Terri Brown Michael & Wanda Burger Nolan & Maggy Carmack Kathryn Chambers Pat & Tim Chambers Daniel Clelland Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd Cory Nancy Crowe Colgate Darden Debra Davidson Johnny Davison Elizabeth DePass Emily & Michael Deserio Debbie & John Dickinson James Drennan Richard Drummond Kevin Duckett Eric Edgerton Warren & Diane Edwards Gwyn Eiler Teresa and Larry Estepp Patty Fast Gloria H. Free Deborah Gaddy

William & Kassandra Garner Jim and Jill Gibson David Goist Gary Gouge Jennifer Griffin Jan Grossman Sue Guerrant Kyle Guie David & Karen Hamilton Kristen Hammett Jim & Jane Hanes Carey Hedlund Susan Hendrickson Sue Herring Sarah Hess Chief Michell Hicks Linda Hilborn Caitlin & Will Hopkins Lee and Amanda Hunt Sylvia Hyman David Jarjoura Michael Karas James Kennedy Geoffrey Kitchingman Michael Knies Ed Laman Eleanor Hill Lamb David & Jeanine Lantz R. Scott & Meryl Lawrence Joe & Jill Lawrence Andrea Leslie & Steve Fraley James Leutze & Margaret Gates Ann & Bob Lewis Randall & Christina Maddox Lori Mancuso Vin Mancuso Jane & Thomas Marvin Emily McDaniel

Bryan & Rachael McIntosh Celia Miles Stuart Miles Kana Miller Marley Miller Bonita Nache Sara Oddo Rob Ost Sallie Paar Brookie & Jean Potter Carlisle Rankin Hans Rose Gregg Rosenthal Tory Schmitz Richard Schumacher Curt & Kathy Smith Bonnie Stewart Donald Stuart Rick & Maggi Swanson Andrea Thompson Robert Thompson & Melissa Will Wendy Upright Greg & Danielle Vaeth Jennifer Ward Leigh & Carter Webb Jason Wicker Michael & Becky Wiese Susan Wilburn CJ Wilson Susan Wilson Robert & Susan Winner Charles & Cheryl Wise Derek Witte Lisa Wood Cindy Wood Teri Wood

Members’ CORNER

In Memoriam: John Lowndes SAHC member and son of Kim and Bill Lowndes of Asheville, John Lowndes, 57, of Richmond, Virginia, passed away in November.

“John especially loved Yellow Mountain and grew up there during his teenage years,” said his father, SAHC Trustee Bill Lowndes.

John was born in Durham, NC, and received his Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Richmond in 1980, where he met his late wife, Nancy Lang Lowndes.

He was a loving husband, father, brother and son who always put family first. A creative and generous man as well as

Memorials

an inspiring and magnetic leader, he impacted every life he touched. He was the owner of a prominent, successful Richmond business and a long-standing member of a 12-step program. He contributed vastly to the Richmond recovery community. John is survived by his wife, Dawn Lowndes; and their four children, Erin, Coleman, Amy and Tessa. He is also survived by his parents; his brother, Jeffrey; and seven grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, family asked that donations be made to SAHC. “John would appreciate all the gifts made in his memory,” said Bill. He recalls that John loved the work that SAHC does. He often talked about it with his dad and was glad that Bill has been an important part of our organization for many years.

We share in honoring the memory of those friends who have passed.

In Memory of Sara Nell Baden Susan & Robert King In Memory of Mrs. Ellen Campbell Mountain View Garden Club In Memory of Judge Hugh B Campbell Mary Crews In Memory of Jim Crews Mary Crews In Memory of Lena DeLoach Art & Nancy Garrett In Memory of Hank Gamble Juan Ascoli In Memory of Nancy Hart Judy Murray & Tom Gatti In Memory of Charlie Klabunde Judy Murray & Tom Gatti In Memory of William Borden Leonard Bill Schaefer In Memory of Dr. Charles T. McCullough Brian and Linda Dillon Shirley Anne McCullough Judy Murray and Tom Gatti In Memory of Lauren Starkman Ellen & Mark Starkman

John Lowndes especially loved Yellow Mountain. Photo by Witt Langstaff, Jr.

In Memory of John Lowndes A.F. Thomas & Assoc., P.C. Max & Lillian Alexander Ann Babcock Lisa Bambach Karen & Buster Brown Cynthia Deffenbaugh Ron & Nancy Edgerton Charles & Rebecca Elderkin Woodard Farmer Susan & John Franklin Trudi & Robert Glenn Mary Bailey Gray

Nicole Gropp Horack, Talley, Pharr & Lowndes, P.A. Ideal Aluminum Products Jerry Powers Atlantic Fence Supply Collin Kelly L2-Technologies Jay Leutze Barry Long Sally Long Sydna & Charles Lowndes

John and Rita Lowndes Bill & Kim Lowndes Janna Lutovsky Shirley Anne McCullough Valery McNally Meadows, Urquhart, Acree & Cook. LLP Anne Mischuck Paula O’Hara Tina Parrish John Pine Lisa Poore

Lee Raesly Jim & Lindsey Robbins Laura Sankowich Denise Snodgrass Stephens Pipe & Steele LLC Bob and Judy Swan Kristy Urquhart & Drew Stevenson Del Ward Diane Smock & Brad Wyche

In Memory of Jim Stokoe Linda McClean In Memory of David Tate Lauran Ziegler In Memory of Jean & Mel Thomason Philip Thomason & Amy Lynch In Memory of Mr. Lee Wallace Mountain View Garden Club In Memory of Helen Marie Scott Warren Connie Adler

View from the Highlands | 19

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s

2015-2016 Annual Report Thanks to YOU, we achieved some remarkable milestones in the last year! What have we been up to?

Protecting

881

A c r e s

for habitat, outdoor recreation, productive farmland and scenic beauty

41,127

linear feet of stream corridor for clean water and aquatic habitat

Connecting We led

366

Hikers

to enjoy and experience unique protected places.

1,625

Miles Hiked!

1,800+ 20 | Annual Report

Stewarding

100

Vo l u n t e e r s co nt r i b u t e d

1,500

Hours

to manage and restore habitat for native plants and animals.

Growing

280

New Members

people learned about conservation & agriculture through our workshops & presentations.

A N N U A L R E P O RT

Letter From the President Nancy Edgerton

Like so many of us of a certain age, I spent my childhood outside. All the neighborhood kids played in streams looking for salamanders and frogs, in fields chasing butterflies, and in the woods climbing trees and building forts.

As an adult, I moved to a suburb that had become a concrete jungle, with only isolated patches of green for recreation. It wasn’t until I had kids that I even thought about the impact of urban sprawl on both native flora/fauna and on the humans who were becoming separated from nature.

where nature was still valued. We were delighted to find Asheville.

We offer sincere gratitude to the philanthropists and all of the conservation-minded organizations that came before us who helped protect these mountains in the past. Now, I am honored to say that I have a small part in helping SAHC continue to save amazing places in Western NC and Eastern TN for everyone, forever. The region in which SAHC works is vital for the survival of so many species — and I’m thrilled that same region is home to so

I am honored to say that I have a small part in helping SAHC continue to save amazing places in Western NC and East TN for everyone, forever.

My husband Ron and I bought a 20-acre farm 20 miles outside of our suburb and would bring minivan loads of kids out there to play on the weekends — but we knew there had to be a better way.

When we had the ability to move, it was important for us to live in a place

Nancy (center), surrounded by family.

many people who enjoy nature! I’m also thankful for the local farmers who bring local meats and produce to my table and to so many of our area restaurants.

SAHC plays an instrumental role in protecting the undeveloped mountains and farms of this region, and the organization is recognized as one of the most respected land trusts in the country. The staff, AmeriCorps members, and volunteers at SAHC continue to protect our mountains’ watersheds, unique ecosystems, prime farmlands, and rare and endangered species in new and innovative ways.

SAHC President Nancy Edgerton with husband Ron, on an SAHC guided hike.

This is the better way that Ron and I were looking for. We look forward to the times that we can get out onto protected properties with members of the SAHC staff — and I’m inviting all of you to do the same.

Would you like to get more involved with SAHC? Please come out on a hike, or help us pull invasive species, host a gathering of your friends to come out and see our Community Farm, attend one of our Annual Membership events, or join us in June in the Roan Highlands for June Jamboree hikes.

I’d love to introduce you to the talented staff. If you’d like to get more involved, you can contact me personally at n.edge. anc@gmail.com, or call the SAHC office at 828-253-0095.

Thank you for your continued support!

Nancy Edgerton President, Board of Trustees Annual Report | 21

F i nan ci a l s u m m a ry FY 14/15 Revenue & Support $5,521,308

Contributions..................

Grants Government..........................

Foundation ..........................

Other .............................

1,489,816 205,380 1,878,665

(Investments/Planned Giving/In-Kind)

Total Support/Revenue.. $9,095,169 includes funds to purchase land & conservation easements both during and after the budget year Other 21%

SAHC Assets

2014/2015

Current Assets Cash & Equivalents Receivables Prepaid Expenses Mitigation Credit Total Current Assets

$ 1,689,709 495,573 24,827 139,141 $ 2,349,250

2013/2014 $

1,073,294 101,894 23,713 152,190 $ 1,351,091

Long-Term Assets Permanently Protected Properties Endowments/Investments Planned Giving Receivable Life Estate Land Assets Property & Equipment Mitigation Escrow Trade Lands Total Long-Term Assets

$ 19,456,896 6,150,393 99,483 2,425,014 1,051,099 7,710 164,000 $ 29,354,595

$ 20,727,919 5,017,243 116,629 1,118,331 410,212 105,254 54,000 $ 27,549,588

TOTAL ASSETS

$ 31,703,845

$ 28,900,679

SAHC Liabilities & Net Assets 2014/2015

Grants 18% Contributions 61%

FY 14/15 Expenses Program Services........................ $4,551,185 Management & Administration..... 265,241 Fundraising ................................

71,256 Total Expenses............... $4,887,682 includes expenses for conservation easement purchases

Current Liabilities Long-Term Liabilities Total Liabilities

$

328,295 -----$ 328,295

2013/2014 $

94,877 1,957,190 $ 2,052,067

TOTAL NET ASSETS

$31,375,550

$26,848,612

TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS

$31,703,845

$28,900,679

To obtain a copy of the complete SAHC financial statements, please send us a note: 34 Wall Street, Suite 502, Asheville, NC 28801 or email: sahc@appalachian.org

Cumulative Protected Acreage

Fundraising 2%

69,493

as of January 2016

Acres

Management & Administration 5%

( July 1 2014 - June 30, 2015)

Decade Program 93% 22 | Annual Report

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.

A N N U A L R E P O RT

Grants Strengthen Our Strategic Conservation Work: Thank you to the following for providing critical funding during the 2015 calendar year that supports our work.

Appalachian Trails Conservancy: $8,100 to support grassy balds management, building of an information kiosk on Round Bald and the Roan Naturalist position.

Real Estate Partners

Beattie Foundation: $5,000 to support SAHC’s land conservation and stewardship efforts.

Buncombe County: $264,200 to complete conservation easements in the Fairview, Leicester and Sandy Mush farming communities and other priority properties in Buncombe County.

NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: $293,400 to fund land and easement acquisitions in the Leicester and Sandy Mush farming communities.

Park Foundation: $10,000 to support SAHC’s land conservation and stewardship efforts.

Tennessee Parks & Greenways Foundation: $2,000 to support hiking trails in Hampton Creek Cove.

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina: $34,500 to support our Beginning Farmer Incubator Program.

The Conservation Fund: $45,000 to support building legislative support for land and water conservation.

Conservation Trust for North Carolina: $11,090 to support our land protection projects in North Carolina.

USDA – National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) – Beginning Farmer Rancher Development Program: $100,000 to support program development for our Farm Pathways: Access to Land, Livelihood and Learning program in collaboration with the Organic Growers School and WNC Farmlink.

USDA – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): $1,160,085 to purchase conservation easements on working farms in the Leicester and Sandy Mush communities.

Blue Ridge Forever: Merck Family Fund - $20,000 NC Dept. of Justice - $38,600 Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation - $20,000

Appalachian Realty Associates Erik Aasland Carolina Mountain Sales Patty & Ben Woolf D’Ann Ford Conservation Advisors John Witherspoon William Hamilton Cool Mountain Realty Jenny Brunet Karen Cernek Cassandra DeJong Odilia Forlenza Peter Haseloff Rick Jaynes Exit Realty Vista Lisa Gurney Landcrazy.com Jackie Curé MTN Land Properties Todd Dunnuck RE/MAX Results Jimmy & Margaret Vestal Town & Mountain Realty Robbie McLucas Trillium Properties of Asheville Dan Bennett

Annual Report | 23

A N N U A L R E P O RT

Thank You to All our Supporters!

Gray ’s Lily Leadership Circle SAHC’s Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle gives special recognition to donors who give $1,000 or more annually.

Anonymous (3) Joel & Marla Adams John & Annie Ager Michael & Catty Andry Holly & Bernard Arghiere Brock & Leah Wong Ashburn Richard Baird Warren & Larissa Bare The Barnhardt Family Ann Batchelder & Henri Kieffer Frank & Ranlet Bell Robert & Joy Bierbaum Fred & Cleone Black Kent & Jeanette Blazier Courtney Blossman Brent & Jamie Bookwalter Clay & Leigh Bordley Phyllis Bosomworth Everett Bowman David & Lin Brown Ken & Ida Brown Kirk & Shelley Brown Nathan & Anne Burkhardt Bruce & Toni Byers Stuart Camblos Mr. & Mrs. Lee Chambers R. Booth & Georgeanne Chapman

Maggie Clancy & Alan McGregor Billy & Cindy Clarke Dumont Clarke & Shirley Linn Carol T. Coffey John & Faye Cooper John Cram & Matt Chambers Kate & Dick Crawford Charles & Jeanne Cummings Joe DeLoach Robert Detjen Norman & Erna Earle Rick & Bridget Eckerd Stephen Edge & Sarah Davis Ron & Nancy Edgerton Mary Ellen Edmonds David Erwin & MaryAnn Kiefer Murray Evans & Dee Montie William & Carol Falender Priestley & Brent Ford Lisa & George Francisco William & Ellen Gaddy David Gantt Peter & Jas Gentling Jim & Jill Gibson Joe & Sharon Goldston John & Sarah Green Michael & Sydney Green Clemie Gregory

24 | Annual Report

Greg & Michele Gregory The Haddock Family Jackson & Laurie Hamilton Susie & Will Hamilton Bob & Mabel Harvey The Harvey Family Jeff & Lee Hatling Richard & Eileen Hayes Lance & Nancy Herning Ronald Hicks Joscelyn Hill Molly & Dan Hitchcock Robert & Jane Hite Sheila & Stace Horine James P. Houser, Jr. Dinesh & Alexandra Jain Mary & Randy Johnson Jim & Lynn Karegeannes Brad & Joy Kee Donna & Robert Kelly Anne Kilgore Laura Kimberly Jack & Florence Krupnick Joe & Jill Lawrence R. Scott & Meryl Lawrence Kathleen Leutze Robert & Ann Lewis Anne & Claude Libis

Bill & Kim Lowndes John & Rita Lowndes Rich Luker & Vicki Bennett Ellen & Hank Lyle Popsie Lynch Bill & Kitty Lynch Randall & Christina Maddox William & Janice Maddox Richard & Rebecca Manske John & Dee Mason Bill & Dee Dee Maxwell Laura & Mike McCue Shirley Anne McCullough John & Connie McLendon Robbie & Jen McLucas Jacqueline Michel & Miles Hayes David & Jill Millar Hezzy & Sharon Miller Carol Ann Mitchell & Carrie Lenburg Ken & Lotta Murray Carol Namkoong Jeff Needham Edward Oliver Gregory Olson & Rosalind Willis James & Katherine Overholser Leonard & Esther Pardue Cathy & George Phillips

A N N U A L R E P O RT Walter & Barbara Pitts Cynthia Poortenga Mr. & Mrs. L. Richardson Preyer, Jr. Robert & Elizabeth Pyeatt Joe Sam & Kate Queen Suzy & Ed Rankin Sally Rhoades Blair & Ivon D. Rohrer, Jr. Dan Rosenberg & Jen Gervais Marc Rudow & Deborah Miles John & Susie Ruhl Bill Ryan & Lynn Bledsoe Jim Samsel & Kim McGuire Joseph Sasfy &

Marianne Mooney Sandy & Missy Schenck Shirley Schultz Waid & Babbie Shelton David Sherman Lynn Silverstein Terry & Elizabeth Simmonds Kathy & John Singleton Jim & Marianne Skeen Dan & Evelyn Slagle Pat & Phil Smith Sandra S. Spooner Brad & Shelli Stanback Fred & Alice Stanback Ellen & Mark Starkman

Margaret Storey Donna & Jim Sublett Rick & Maggi Swanson Tim Sweeney Craig Thompson Rebecca & Jason Warner Jean Webb Laura Webb & John Hoskins Stephen & Kelley Wilkinson Joseph & Terese Williams Tom & Laurie Williams John Witherspoon Stephen & Mary Bruce Woody Ben & Patty Woolf Lach Zemp

Leadership Circle Reception

A big thank you to all our major donors, corporate donors and SAHC leaders who joined us to celebrate our conservation successes on a beautiful fall day at our Community Farm.

Guests joined us as Guests toured the Community Farm prior to the reception.

Photo by Travis Bordley. we toured the Farm meeting the farmers of our Farmer Incubator Program, visiting our major stream restoration and experiencing our shortleaf pine ecosystem restoration.

After the tour we gathered for fellowship and great food. Carl reflected on SAHC accomplishments and the impact our leaders make on local land and water conservation in our community. Thank you again to Meadow Family Farms, Flying Cloud Farm, and Second Spring Market Garden for donating the food and to Chef Peter Affatato for generously discounting his services and for preparing the incredible dishes on site.

SAVE THE DATE: We look forward to celebrating with our Gray’s Lily Leadership Circle members and Corporate Donors on Sunday, October 2 at the next Annual Leadership event at the SAHC Community Farm. We hope you will join us!

$500 - 999 Pat & Glenn Bass Alex Bond Tom & Jo Brock Patricia & Malcolm Brown Wes & Nancy Brown Robert Brunk Thomas & Linda Bushar John Cheesborough & Ellen Flanagan John & Etta Clark Richard & Frieda Coleman Paul & Susan Crutchfield Jack & Maxine Dalton Paul & Chris Dismukes Jennie Eblen & James Perkins David & Charlene Efird Chas Fitzgerald Ignacy Fonberg John & Janet Garrett Helen Gift Linda M. Good Jan Grossman Robert Harvey Doug Hibshman Barbara Hiestand Raymond Hohenberger Norma Holmes Bill Keenan Tom & Cathy Klages Witt & Beth Langstaff, Jr. Jay Leutze Michael Mallory Leah & Brian Mathews Sandra & Jackie Melton Allison & Kincaid Mills Jennifer & Jay Mills Bruce & Mary Ann Minkin Jerry & Sally Nagel Margaret H. Newell George & Jean Nilsen Mary Purvis Lunda & Tom Reeder

Annual Report | 25

A N N U A L R E P O RT

“My Fairview farm holds special memories.”

“The land has been in my family for over 150 years. Over the years, this place provided home, livelihood, sustenance, and recreation for family and friends alike, offering opportunity to experience the outdoors and the beauty and tranquility of the mountains.

We treasure the unspoiled beauty of the valley and surrounding mountains, the prime soils that continue to nourish crops and pastures, and the fields, streams, and woodlands that are home to varieties of plants and wildlife. I am so grateful to the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy for helping preserve our magnificent mountain landscapes and rich agricultural resources. Doing so requires effort and commitment, and deserves support from us all.

I am thankful to know that the views through this valley will remain as magical in the years to come as they are today, thanks to the work of SAHC.” — Popsie Lynch, Landowner

26 | Annual Report

Sandra & Bryant Riley Ed & Ann Rowell Jerry & Dianna Rysticken Gary & BA Schenk Charlotte Sheppard Peg & Bill Steiner Dave & Debbie Taylor Robert & Lori Thomas Nancy & Richard Truluck Dianne Tuttle Ted & Terry Van Duyn Doug & Pat Williams John & Ashley Wilson, Jr. $250 - 499 Ken & Jennifer Abbott Robert Aland Ellis & Barbara Aycock Charlie & Ann Baker Luther & Ruth Barnhardt Bob & Carol Bauer Ralph Baumgardner, Jr. George & Ellen Benson Karel & Elizabeth Bernady Lee & Emily Bidgood Earl & Judy Booze Charles & Mary Bowman Ken Brame & Judy Mattox Jay Bretz James & Elizabeth Bryan Tom & Cathy Byers Rebecca & Randy Campbell Charlotte Caplan & Mike Brubaker Jim & Stacey Carson Dave Charlton Robert Daniel Cathy & Terry Davis Norman & Debbie Davis Shannon & Rachel Davis Tim Dell Warren & Diane Edwards Brian Ericson

Alan & Suzanne Escovitz Mary Fanslow Heinz & Elisabeth Feil Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull Mary Bailey Gray John & Lori Groce Jayden Gurney Peggy Guthrie David & Karen Hamilton Glen & Mary Jo Hess Randall Holcombe Lang & Ann Hornthal Tom Jenkins & Rebecca Stimson Anne & Gary Kauffman Art & Penny Kiser Michael Knies Travis Knowles Eleanor Hill Lamb R. Michael & Michelle Leonard Keith Levi Dr. William Linebarger Ken Linker Damaso & Francie Lopez Ferris Lyle Meg MacLeod Alex Maynard Walter & Nancy McConnell Tracy McCracken Lucy Oliver & Tom Rightmyer Sam & Linda Pearsall Pat & Debbie Phillips Taylor Pickard Lee Pirtle Penny & Ray Ponder Mary Louise Powell Karen Prus & Lewis Carson Glen Pyles Lee Raesly Lynnell Reese Robbins Richardson

Jennifer Rish Suzanne & Sean Rubin Ed & Cathy Rudisill Ken & Patra Rule Laura Sankowich Art & Becky Santora James Schreiber Jonathan Scott Glen Singletary Jim & Jane Sleeva John & Janice Stratton Mary Kay & Bill Sullivan John Z.C. Thomas Buddy Tignor & Ava Carr Michael & Fran Vavrek Austin & Abigail Walker Robert & Ruth Warner Bill & Judy Watson Peter & Ann Weigl J. Tracy & Barbara Wilkerson John & Cindy Winkenwerder Charles & Nancy Worley Hank & Nancy Young $100 - 249 Andy & Lorene Aarons Max & Lillian Alexander Ashby Angell Bruce Armstrong Tom & Alice Aumen Stephen & Barbara Austin Drs. John & Darragh Bailey Rod & Bess Baird Ervin L. Ball, Jr. & Carol Cousins Lisa Bambach Jean Bangham Gretchen Batra Tom & Kay Beardsley Mr. G. Alex & Mrs. Anne Bernhardt, Sr. Regi & Katherine Blackburn Clarence & Sheila Blair

A N N U A L R E P O RT Donald & Judith Bliss Jim Blose & Sarah Rubin John Blume & Drucy Glass Cindy Shealy & Greg Borom Robert Bowman Robert & Anne Brandt Beverly & Charles Briedis Beth Brinson Myrtle Brown James & Gale Buchanan Kathleen Buck & Ken Moore Steve Buie & Billie Harper Buie Lana Burns Boone Guyton & Claudia Cady Kathleen & Bob Campbell Julia Carter Richard & Barbara Carter John & Ellen Cate Marguerite Clark Calvin & Martha Ann Claxton Bob Clifford Brian Coggins Laura Collins Barry Cooper & Sarah Bivins David & Linda Copley Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd Cory Robert & May Crawford Mary Crews Philip Croll C. James & Elizabeth Cummings Katherine DeCoster Cynthia Deffenbaugh Leigh DeForth Debbie & John Dickinson Brian & Linda Dillon Mike & Elyn Dortch Victor Dostrow & Renee Ethridge Richard Drummond Sylvia Dry Bill & Janyce Dudney Pat Dunn & Lee Ann Smith Michael & Anna Eddy

Catharine Ellis & Kent Stewart Miles & Millie Elmore Stephen & Julia Falling Mac Felder Bob & Liz Fisher Mike & Betsy Fleenor John Flood Alan Front Lee Galloway & Nancy Thompson Art & Nancy Garrett Warren & Sharon Gaskill Bob & Susan Gault James & Kathleen Gears Sally Gerhardt Charles Gershon Bill Gibson John & Minnie Gillett Linda Giltz Greg & Elizabeth Glance Ash & Anne Gobar David Goforth Karen Goklany Doris Gove W. Peter & Rhonda Graper Greg Greenhow & Sherlene Spicer-Greenhow Louis & Lucy Gump Elise Guthridge Joe Hackney R. Phillip Haire David B. Hall Kristen Hammett Jim & Jane Hanes Art & Hannah Harris William & Alice Hart Dr. Anna Hayward Bruce & Lynn Henderson Brevard Henry Jamie Herman Joel & Pamela Herning Sue Herring Scott & Teresa Hicks Sara Hill

Leaving a legacy for conservation

Legacy Society

When you make a bequest and include SAHC in your estate plans you join a group of visionary conservationists who stay committed to protecting the special places we love in Western NC and East TN. The Legacy Society recognizes the foresight and commitment of extraordinary people who make SAHC a beneficiary in their estate planning. If you plan to leave us a legacy gift, please let us know so we can thank you. We gratefully recognize members of SAHC’s Legacy Society : Katherine Bachman* Carol Ann Mitchell & Carrie Lenburg Mildred Blaha* Karen & David Mouw Tom & Jo Brock Kay Murray* Robert D. Brown* Rick Phelps G. Kimberly Carter* Bill Popper* Carol T. Coffey Lynnell Reese Lee Davis Charles & Caroline Ribelin Bruce DeBruhl Elizabeth Richardson & Michael Pawlyk Robert Detjen Allan Safford* Jerome Drown* David Scanlon* Pauline Dunne* William & Martha Scarborough Alan & Suzanne Escovitz Shirley Schultz Maxine Ference Gary & Lillah Schwartz Robert & Kerri Ford Terry & Elizabeth Simmonds H. Joan Foster David Slobodin David Goodkind* William Smith* Mildred Hawk* Susan Stone* Miles Hayes & Jacqueline Michel Dave & Debbie Taylor Lisa Huff Sarah Thomason Kay Hultquist* David & Judy Johnson Julia Jones* Julia Irwin* Leah Karpen Charles Klabunde* Jim & Mary Allen Martin Laura & Mike McCue Sandra & Jackie Melton

Bob & Mary Thompson Craig Thompson Buddy Tignor Pat Tompkins Charlotte Umholtz* Nancy Wallace* Amelia Jo Wier* Ben Willis* *those whose gifts have been fulfilled

Annual Report | 27

A N N U A L R E P O RT Laing & Enid Hinson Dr. & Mrs. J. Parks Hitch, Jr. Charles & Pamela Hodge Bill Holman Dennis & Sherry Horn Sandra Houts Zoe Hoyle Ann & Sam Hubbard Phyllis M. Bray Huffman John Humphrey Lee Hyde George & Laura Ivey Rose Jenkins

Charles & Luise Johnson Bob & Julie Johnson Robert Jones Sandy Jones Connie & Noel Kane-Maguire Bob Kaplan Michael Karas Ann Karegeannes Richard Kark Collin Kelly Judy Kelly Susan & Robert King

Matching Gift Companies Bank of America BorgWarner Foundation Duke Energy Foundation Franklin Templeton Investments GlaxoSmithKline Foundation JP Morgan Chase Foundation Norfolk Southern Foundation Parsec Financial Management Pfizer Foundation Prudential Foundation Shell Oil Company Foundation Steelcase Matching Gift Foundation

Make your donation go further.

Ask your company about matching your charitable contribution. If your employer participates, simply request a matching gift form and mail it to us.

28 | Annual Report

Alston Kirk Larkin & Rosa Kirkman Geoffrey Kitchingman Cameron Kurowski & Holly Musgrove Edward & Anita Landry Art Lang Lynda Lantz Robert Larson Anita & Jerry Leger Andrea Leslie & Stephen Fraley James Leutze & Margaret Gates Carl Loftin Barry Long Jerome Long Sally Long Sydna & Charles Lowndes Ryan Lubbers Hal Mabray & Cathy Silverstein Ken & Judy Maness Gail & Ron Manheimer Brent & Lisa Manning Chandler & Virginia Martin Elizabeth & Robert Martin Jim & Mary Allen Martin Tom & Sara Masters Mark Matheny Jon & Melissa Mather John & Nancy Mathewson Dr. William May Jim & Connie McCall Patricia McCauley Hugh & Carol McCollum Kenneth & Sandra McDonald Karen & Gary McDougal Pat & Doug McDowell Robert & Geeta McGahey Richard McLain & Lonni Schultz George McLellan

Valery McNally Bill & Wanda Melton Carl & Holley Merschat Spence Carman Meyers Jonathan & Kim Miller Cynthia Modlin Michael Mooney & Marja Warehime Tim & Debi Moore Pam & Joe Morris David & Linda Moulton Karen & David Mouw Susan Muehl Judy Murray & Tom Gatti James Neal W.T. Norris, Jr. Carolyn Novak & Don Johnson Janis & Kurt Olson Jamie Pace Anne Paine C.E. Parker David Parker Tina Parrish George J. Peery & Mary M. Stair Robert Peet Cliff & Sarah Pennell Matthew Perry Susan Peters Scott & April Peterson George Pfaff George Phillips Kenneth Phillips John Pine Patrick & Norma Price Mack Prichard Michael & Cynthia Pugliese David & Christine Ray Ted & Zibs Reiter May & John Rhea Charles & Caroline Ribelin Kristen Ripmaster

Jim & Lindsey Robbins Anne & Kenneth Robichaux E. Wilson Robinson Heman Robinson Susan Roderick Dan & Rosalie Russo Lee Ryan & Nancy Aalberg Carolyn Sakowski & Alton Franklin Marti & Gary Salk Ann Satterthwaite Gary & Lillah Schwartz Edward Schwartzman Mary Scott Mike & Lana Scott Michael Sebert Edgar & Nancy Shackelford Donald Shaffer John Sirianni Cindy & James Skaggs Cam & Wendy Smail Doug & Barbara Smith Lillian Smith Ann & Farley Snell Paul & Lois Somers Lewis & Marcia Songer Tom & Bonnie Spradling David & Carolyn Staley Mary Stewart Irene & Michael Stoll Donald Stuart Paul & Anna-Catherine Super Steve Swearingen Gary & Carol Ellen Taft Philip Thomason & Amy Lynch Dr. & Mrs. John C. Toole Valerie True & Jason Gast Dr. & Mrs. Harrison Turner Kristy Urquhart & Drew Stevenson Deborah Van Vechten

A N N U A L R E P O RT Del Ward Dewey Wells Beth Wells Terri Wells & Glenn Ratcliff Harvey Westervelt Adam & Carolyn Whitehead Jason Wicker Charles & Barbara Wilcox Yardy & Barbara Williams Eileen Wilson John Wingerter Robert & Susan Winner William & Shirley Winston Oscar & Anna Wong Cindy Wood Debbie Wood Jane & Jack Woodside Rosemary & Merle Woodworth James Woollcott Chris Young Up to $99 William Abernethy John Adornato III Nealon & Goldie Agee Terry Alexander & Edwina Jackson Able Allen Don & Janet Allen Tom Alligood Daryel Anderson Samuel H. Anderson, Jr. & Delois Anderson Andrew & Jennifer Angyal Juan Ascoli Donna Ashby Steve Bagby Brian & Wendy Bailey Gary & Betty Bailey Stacey Bailey David & Mary Anne Baker Warren Balgooyen

Rebecca Banner Shelly Barber Jon & Beverly Barbour Laura Barnum Rocky Beach Ann Beasley Jan Beech Sharon Beeckler Helen Bell Susie & Ira Bell David & Sharon Benner Daniel Bennett Hayley Benton Justin Berger Darla Beverage & Kent Gardner Rita Blankenbecler Thomas & Elizabeth Bolton Barrie Bondurant Gaye Booth & Vernon Larry George & Alice Boss Stephen & Joan Boyle Mary Boys Dr. Jane Bramham & Dr. Camilla Collins Sara Brecht Ann Brennan Cynthia Bringle Daniel & Linda Brown Karen & Buster Brown Kemper & Elizabeth Brown Kevin & Terri Brown Becky Brown & Josh Kelly William Bruce Horace Brumit & Sarah M Lawson Mary Buckwalter L. H. Buff, Jr. Michael & Wanda Burger Charlotte Burnette William & June Busing Matthew Byrd Nolan & Maggy Carmack

Tim Carstens Thomas Cash Dudley & Joanne Cate Kathryn Chambers Robert Cherry & Jamie Leigh Douglas & Mindy Clark Katie Clay-Wakefield Marilyn Clay Daniel Clelland Joseph & Glenda Clendenin Betty Cobb Judy Coker Jimmy & Charlotte Compton Brian Cooper Joan Cooper Sima Cooperman Rob & Cindy Corley Anne Corrigan Kyle Covey Jeff & Susan Covington Nancy Crosby Gerald & Nancy Cross Nancy Crowe James & Marion Crowell Rick & Sally Currie John Dainotto James & Pamela Daniel Kathryn Daughton C Davenport Debra Davidson John Davis Sara Davis & Dwayne Stutzman Johnny Davison Lamar Dean Elizabeth DePass Samuel T. Di Misa L.W. Dickerson Brian Didier Edgardo Diez Mary Donnelly Carolyn Dorner Jennifer W. Dotson

Don & Carolyn Dougall Richard & Melinda Douglass Tonya Dozier James Drennan Jo Driggers Kevin Duckett Richard & Frances Duvall Zellie Earnest Kevin & Marilyn Edgar Charles & Rebecca Elderkin Keith & Michelle Ellis Richard & Sylvia Elwyn Amy & John Ende Teresa & Larry Estepp Vic Fahrer Lisa Fancher & Steve Frank

Cameron Farlow Woodard Farmer Patty Fast Doug & Michelle Fears Maureen & Brad Feuston John Fobes Norma Forbes Donna & John Fox Saylor Fox & Bettye Boone Linda Frankl & John Kaufmann Gloria Howard Free Michael Frost Deborah Gaddy Paul Gallant Lydia Garvey

Land Stewards Thank you to our Land Stewards who made contributions towards our Stewardship Program this year. Gifts directed towards Stewardship ensure that every protected property’s unique conservation values are cared for and the conservation easement restrictions are upheld.

By monitoring each property annually, SAHC ensures that future generations will have clean water to drink, clean air to breath, and fresh food to eat. Thank you for these wonderful gifts.

Jay Gleason & Bill & Kitty Lynch Hershella Smith Betty Ann Reeves Susie & Will Hamilton Brad & Shelli Stanback Will & Theresa Jeffers Fred & Alice Stanback Popsie Lynch Annual Report | 29

A N N U A L R E P O RT Bill & Gwen Garwood Stephanie Gillis Betty Gilman Yael Girard Andrew Glasgow Trudi & Robert Glenn Julia Godsey David Goist Barry Gold & Cindy Carpien Michael & Elizabeth Golden James Goldsmith Laura Gordon Ethan Gouge Maynard Green Dan & Patti Connor-Greene Jennifer Griffin Fred Grindle Kyle Guie Albert & Betty Gumpert Debra Hall

Danna Hand Mary Harrell Herbert & Karen Harriss Charles & Clara Hasbrouck Vic & Beth Hasler Jane Hatcher & Mary Anglin Carey Hedlund Vaughan Hedrick & Don Parlington Jim & Caryl Heid Cheryl Hemmer Amber Henderson Susan Hendrickson Glen & Mary Jo Hess Dale & Linda Heyne Pauline & Lee Heyne Robert & Rosslyn Hicks Carolyn Hill Jo Hogan Ben C. Hole

Outdoor Clubs Middle Atlantic Chapter American Rhododendron Society Four Seasons Garden Club French Broad River Garden Club Foundation Town & Country Garden Club Mountain View Garden Club Shady Oaks Garden Club Smoky Mountains Hiking Club Tennessee Eastman Co. Recreation Club Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club Valley Forge Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society 30 | Annual Report

David & Debbie Holland Caitlin & Will Hopkins Alan & Christina Householder Susan Hoyle Isham Hudson Jarvis Hudson Maury Hudson Lisa Huff Daniel Huger Patti Hughes J. Randolph Humble Tom Hunter Michael & Marsha Hupko Susan Hutchinson Marilyn Iles David & Thorunn Ivey Laurie Jaegers David Jarjoura Tina Jenkins Nick Joerling & Lisa Bruns Malcolm & Marie Jones Max Kaplan Mary Karnis Leah Karpen Bill & Sharon Katz Joseph Keiger Kenyon & Mary Helen KellyCline James Kennedy Tom Kenney Jesse & Phyllis Key Fred & Raisa Killeffer Ruth Kimberly Eugene King Robert Knight & Debra Segal Bill Knips Alex & Susan Kosma Mike Krebill Gabe Labb Frances Lamberts August & Susan Landl Sarah Lane & Gerald Oakley

Witt & Beth Langstaff, Jr. Joanne & Dan Lazar Jan Lee Tom & Claudia Lee John Legerton & Kathy Meacham Alan Leiserson Jennifer & Charles Lewinsohn Elizabeth Lide & Paul Kayhart Paul Lima Judy Lincks Richard Linsenberg John & Jessie Little Douglas & Deborah Lowman Christine Michele Lunsford Linda Luvaas Inga Lyngholm George & Eloise MacKay Marlowe Mager & Meagan Karvonen Ed & Sue Mahoney Jo Ann Main & Carol Nichols Michele & Brad Makrucki Lori Mancuso Vin Mancuso Dennis Marcinko Sonia Marcus Sharon Marlowe Charles & Belinda Martin Carolyn & John Martin Karen & William Martin Richard Martula Jane & Thomas Marvin Paula Massey Angela May Jeff & Dianna Mazza Margaret McAlevey Linda McClean Jeff & CeeGee McCord John McCreary Tim McDonald

Paul & Angie McDonald Patty & David McIntosh Pat McKee & Terry Lee Mark McKenzie Kent McLaughlin & Suze Lindsay Mr. & Mrs. William McLean Thomas McNeil Cameron McQueen Steve Melton & Cheryl Fowler Gerald & Bette Meyer Celia Miles Stuart Miles Edgar & Kivi Miller Marley Miller Bob Miller Walter & Kimiko Miller Anne Mischuck John Moore Joyce Moore Coralie Tweed & Ray Morgan Eric Morgan Aaron & Anna Morris Catherine Morris Jennifer Mullendore John & Sherry Murphy William Murphy Bonita Nache Marillyn & Ron Nations Nancee Neel & Kirk Avent Linda & Charles Nelms Margaret Newbold Marianne Newman Kevin O’Donnell Sara Oddo Elizabeth Oldham Jonathan Orbach Rob Ost Taylor Overton Sallie Paar Rebecca Paluzzi Jim & Sarah Parham

A N N U A L R E P O RT Mary Parks Carole & Bruce Parsons Jon & Emma Parsons Martin & Christine Petersen David Phelps Deborah Pope Jerry & Barbara Porter Edith Portershirley Brookie & Jean Potter Howard & Nancy Powell Ralph & Marty Prevost Amanda Prince Carlisle Rankin Sam & Missy Rankin Mark & Lori Rasmussen Daniel Reese & Elaine Frantz Daniel Rineer Aleta Roberson Jerry Roberts Rachelle Roberts Thomas Roberts Brenda Robinson & Larry Rodgers Holmes & Jane Rolston Gregg Rosenthal Leon Rubis Joy Sager & David Wall Darlyne Sahara Shirley & Adrian Sandler Bill Schaefer Paul Schmalzer John Schmid Norbert & Peggy Schneider Stephen Schoof Richard Schumacher Nancy Schuman Ronald Schwartz Alice Sebrell James Semans Lois Semmens Susan & Philippe Sevin Bayberry Shah Rob & Sarah Sheeran

Angela Shepherd William Skelton Jerry Sluder Bruce P. Smith, Jr. C.D. & Sally Smith David & Margaret Smith David & Melissa Smith Eugenia Smith & Charles Caldwell Jeff Smith Jim Brooks & Janet Smith John Smith Laurence Smith Peter & Carolyn Smith Thomas Smith Christina Soto & Rex Whitfield Daniel Sparlin Timothy Spira & Lisa Wagner Zach Spurgeon Shelley J. Stahlman & Creel Pickel Caesar & Dorothy Stair Jane & William Stanhope Mike & Susan Stevenson Bonnie Stewart Leslie & Susan Stradley Robert & Marea Stratton Melissa Sullivan Megan Sutton & Andy Tait Bob & Judy Swan Nancy & David Swann Harold Sweetman Susan & Allen Sweetser Tony Tang Sylvia Teague Sarah Thomason Hugh & Marilyn Thompson Robert Thompson & Melissa Will Peggy Tibbits Helen Toms Alice Torbett

Wendy Upright Greg & Danielle Vaeth Keith Viglietta Pete Wallenborn Margot Wallston Jennifer Ward Anthony & Janice Warren Eric Watterson Howard Waxman Leigh & Carter Webb Kathy Weisfeld Michael Welch & Marquette Crockett Ward & Laura Wellman Lynn Wells Angi West Julie & Jim White John & Sandra Whitehouse Barry Whittemore Noah Wiese & Katie Knorovsky Jim Wilburn Charles & Karen Wilson CJ Wilson W. Scott Wilson Joe & Catherine Wisenbaker Paul Wissel Derek Witte Adams Wood Lisa Wood Teri Wood Joan W. Worth Diane Smock & Brad Wyche Jo Wykoff Matt Yetter James Yon Hal & Ann Yungmeyer Anna Zanetti & Johnny Remein Lauran Ziegler Donald Zobel Sherrill & Ted Zoller

Become a Monthly Donor Make a Difference All Year Round!

“My husband and I enjoy the benefits of SAHC’s work on land and water conservation and its contribution to our quality of life virtually every day. Like many people, we find it easy to get caught up in our work and play activities... so much so that we might inadvertently neglect to send in a regular donation. Since becoming monthly donors to SAHC, our contributions are automated and worry-free which saves us time and energy, while also ensuring that our support doesn’t slip through the cracks of our busy lives. Monthly donations are a smart practice that yields a win for us, for SAHC, and for conservation!”

— Leah Mathews, SAHC Member

Monthly giving is an easy and efficient way to support SAHC. Your monthly gift provides reliable funding and the resources we need to protect globally significant landscapes all year round. It also gives you the convenience of knowing that your membership is always current.

You can easily start, change or stop your gift at any time. You will also receive uninterrupted membership benefits. Best of all, as a monthly giver, you will maximize the impact of your conservation support in your community!

To learn more about becoming a monthly donor contact Cheryl at Cheryl@appalcachian. org or 828.253.0095 ext. 209 or visit our website Appalachian.org.

Annual Report | 31

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

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Asheville, NC Permit No. 460

34 Wall Street, Suite 502 Asheville, NC 28801-2710 (828) 253-0095 Return Service Requested

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What will be Your

Legacy?

Upcoming Hikes & Events!

“For Love of Beer & Mountains” Devil’s Britches Hike Saturday, February 13

Hike with Brother Wolf Monday, February 15

Appalachian Spring Member Celebration Thursday, May 19

Land Trust Day/National Trails Day Saturday, June 4

June Jamboree Remember SAHC in your estate planning and leave a gift that will impact local land and water conservation, forever. By joining the Legacy Society you help protect our incredible landscapes and mountain heritage for future generations.

Contact Pauline at 828.253.0095 ext 216 to learn more.

Saturday, June 11 See pg 15 for more events & details.

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