The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy has been protecting land and water resources in the mountains of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee for more than 50 years, safeguarding over 90,000 acres for present and future generations. Thank you for taking the next step to learn more about SAHC and become involved. You can make a difference by helping to protect plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for outdoor recreation.
We offer guided hikes and outings to connect people with protected places. You are invited to enjoy upcoming special events, educational workshops, and more.
Check out our blog and read about conservation successes we have been able to accomplish with the help of our donors and supporters.
Join us by becoming a member today so you can ensure that more of the places you love will be protected for generations.
Here are a few Highlights of SAHC’s Conservation Work:
South Yellow Mountain Preserve
In 2024, Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy accepted the donation of 7,500 acres in Mitchell and Avery Counties, NC, creating the South Yellow Mountain Preserve. Tucked between Spruce Pine and Roan Mountain, SAHC’s South Yellow Mountain Preserve provides a haven for wildlife and natural beauty, permanently protected as a nature preserve and research forest. Read More…
Places for Outdoor Recreation
Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy works with federal, state, and local partners to protect land for inclusion in public forests and parks. You can enjoy the places we have protected when you visit Mt. Mitchell State Park, hike the Appalachian Trail, splash in streams at Rocky Fork State Park, or go birdwatching in Hampton Creek Cove. Check out this map to see some of the SAHC-protected places you can enjoy.
Local Farms for Local Food
Farmland conservation permanently protects important soils and land for agricultural production. By working with local farmers to permanently protect their land with agricultural conservation easements, SAHC protects soil resources and ensures that the land will be available for farming long into the future. Protecting local farms helps sustain our local food industry. Read more about the farming heritage of Buckskin Branch Farm…
