Devil’s Britches and Bark, Buds, Nuts – A pint, a party, a presentation and hike for Tree ID.

SAHC staff & volunteer manned our merchandise table at the Tasting Room. It was a good place to meet friends – new & old!

Music from the Log Cabin Band – put us all in the mood to learn more about our mountains.

The end of February was a great time to practice winter tree identification, and to enjoy a new Highland Brewing Company seasonal pint with friends. As part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” partnership with Highlands Brewing Company and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, we hosted an informative & engaging presentation at the Tasting Room on Thursday, February 21, followed that weekend by an on-the-ground field opportunity with SAHC Field Ecologist Chris Coxen.

The Tasting Room was packed

We enjoyed an incredible crowd at the Tasting Room; it was packed with people who came to learn more about winter tree identification, and to celebrate local music. Listening to the Log Cabin Band play before & after our tree ID tips presentation, we were reminded how deeply our rich Appalachian history and culture are tied to the trees and mountains surrounding us. It was an excellent place to learn – a lively setting, and a fun time!

The presentation was short & sweet – an informative beginner’s guide to success in knowing more about the trees you may see in our area, given in six steps.

Step #1 – Have a good field guide – and two or more is better than one!

Step 1: Have a “good” field guide with you such as the National Audubon Society or Peterson Field guide.

Step 2: Try to identify your forest community type by narrowing down the possibilities of which trees grow where. For example, learning which trees grow at a particular elevation, observing whether the slope is north or south facing, or notice what the trees are near such as water, a hollow, or cove. The location of the tree relative to its surroundings is good way to determine which type of tree might grow there.

Step 3: Observe the form of the tree–are the branches opposite or alternating? Is the tree super straight like a tulip poplar? Is it bent like a sourwood?

SAHC Field Ecologist Chris Coxen makes winter tree ID accessible, and fun.

Step 4: Hark, the bark! Is the bark cobbled like sourwood or black gum? Are there grooves that look like ski trails (might be a red oak)?

Step 5: Checkout the leaves and fruit around the tree. Chris pointed out that this technique can back your initial inclination but is not always reliable because the leaves/fruit could fall far from the tree and because some leaves persist better than others.

Step 6: Examine the twig. When this technique is combined with step 2 and 4, the observer has the best chance of identifying the given tree.

The following Sunday, a full group headed out on a guided hike at Cataloochee Ranch, to try out newly learned techniques.

Heading to the Devils Britches with Hemphill Bald in the Background

Woooooo-weeee! SAHC Field Ecologist, Chris Coxen, was on fire, “ID-ing” trees left and right on the Devils Britches Trail at Cataloochee Ranch. It was a clear & beautiful day, filled with learning, mountains, and the tasty Devils Britches Red IPA from Highland Brewing Company.

The hike started with a discussion about how conservation easements work and the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s long history with Cataloochee Ranch. This talk was especially fitting, since we placed our first ever conservation easement here at the Ranch –  on Hemphill Bald in 1993.

Once reaching the edge of the forest, our schooling started by looking at forest community types.

SAHC Field Ecologist, Chris Coxen, chatting about trees at the beginning of the hike

“One of the best ways to identify trees without their leaves is to look for common forest communities,” said Chris.

“Ski trails on the Northern Red Oak”

For example, dominant canopy species in Northern Hardwood Forest might include yellow birch, sugar maple, American beech, red maple, sweet birch, and yellow buckeye. Another common forest community type in western North Carolina is the Chestnut Oak Forest which includes trees like the northern red oak, chestnut oak, and scarlet oak. The question is how do you discern a chestnut oak from an American beech when the trees have no leaves?

Cobbled bark on a Sourwood tree

Chris reviewed his Six Step tips for success with Tree ID, and for the next two hours, hikers had the opportunity to try out all six of the steps. The group quickly discovered that identifying the naked tree in the middle of winter can be a difficult task. After a pop-quiz from the Field Ecologist at the end of the hike, it was clear that the group had improved a lot. By lunchtime the weather had warmed up nicely and everyone enjoyed a refreshing Devils Britches Red IPA courtesy of Highland Brewing Company.

Thanks to everyone that came out, and we’ll look forward to seeing folks for the next partnership hike to Little Hump on Saturday, May 18th.

About our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership:

Hikers enjoy a Devils Britches Red IPA over lunch

Highland Brewing Company has partnered with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to help raise awareness of the beauty and uniqueness of these high peaks and bring attention to efforts to protect them. These events are presented as part of this partnership, and each is free and open to the public.

Chris had field guides & twig samples available for guests to look through at the presentation.

Rocky Fork – 55th TN State Park

SAHC trustee David Ramsey (right) presents a framed photo at the ceremony to Sen. Lamar Alexander (left) and Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam (center).

Plans for Tennessee’s 55th state park on the stunning Rocky Fork tract were announced on a chilly October day, with early snow still blanketing the ground and a swelling group of attendees packed into the Tennessee Welcome Center off I-26 in Erwin, TN.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau joined members of the General Assembly, local elected officials and members of the community on Tuesday, October 30, for a special ceremony announcing the future conveyance of more than 2,000 acres in the Rocky Fork area of Unicoi County, that will eventually become Tennessee’s 55th state park.

The property is part of the 10,000-acre tract acquired by The Conservation Fund and U.S. Forest Service in 2008, and will be conveyed to the state of Tennessee in the coming months.

Located along the Appalachian Trail corridor and the Tennessee-North Carolina border near Asheville, Rocky Fork is named after the cool waters that run down its center. The property is adjacent to more than 22,000 acres of U.S. Forest Service-designated wilderness, including Sampson and Bald mountains. Before Rocky Fork’s acquisition by The Conservation Fund and U.S. Forest Service, it was one of the largest unprotected tracts in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

The future development of Tennessee’s 55th state park has been made possible through the leadership of Gov. Haslam, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and through the very generous support of The Conservation Fund and U.S. Forest Service. Federal funding for the Rocky Fork land acquisition was made possible through the extraordinary efforts of Sen. Lamar Alexander and the Tennessee Congressional Delegation to secure support from the Land and Water Conservation Fund and through significant private contributions totaling more than $4 million. Other key partners include the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, TWRA, Tennessee Heritage Conservation Trust Fund,  Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Unicoi and Greene counties, and the Upper East Tennessee Region.

The entire Rocky Fork wilderness area provides a wide range of world-class recreational opportunities, including hiking the popular Appalachian Trail, fishing more than 16 miles of blue-ribbon trout streams, and hunting bear, turkey, deer and grouse. The area is also home to both state and federally endangered species, including the Peregrine falcon.

Blue Ridge Society Reception 2012

Musicians David Holt and Will McIntyre set the scene for the incredible 10th annual Blue Ridge Society reception at the home of SAHC trustee Courtney Blossman on September 27th. The Blue Ridge Society is a group of philanthropic leaders who support the work of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy and the Conservation Trust for North Carolina at a gift level of $1,000 & above annually. We want to thank all the members of the Blue Ridge Society and participants who attended the event.

June Jamboree 2012 – Spectacular Summer on the Roan

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day to appreciate the Highlands of Roan than the one that graced this year’s June Jamboree! On Saturday, June 23rd, hikers on each of six adventures enjoyed gorgeous skies – from a long, sunny trek on Grassy Ridge to a splashing good time in cold creek waters. Here’s a brief look at what you may remember – or may have missed. This year, we wanted to let our hikers and hike leaders  tell the story of the June Jamboree in their own words… Enjoy their adventures, and we hope you’ll join us next year!

Carver’s Gap to Grassy Ridge

Gray’s lily

“Around 12 or so of us hiked Carvers Gap to Grassy Ridge at the June Jamboree and really experienced a treat!  My first time on Grassy Ridge, I found this to be a fantastic introduction, meeting others who hold places like these dear to their hearts and experiencing first-hand the unique nature of the Roan Highlands.  With the weather in our favor, we visited with the goats who graze the balds, gazed on breathtaking vistas, and took in the rare beauty of Grays lilies blooming.

David Smith, biologist and former board member, provided us with detailed and interesting information about the plant and animal life of the balds.  Some of the information he shared underscores the urgency of our task as SAHC members: he pointed out the fungus that destroys the Grays lily’s ability to seed which has recently arrived on the bald.  The beauty of the day tempered with the reality of our task presented the perfect Jamboree mix to send us away with great memories and a renewed commitment to these fragile systems.  Thanks to all who set up and carried out the event! And to David for his time and expertise!”

-  Patty Cunningham-Woolf, newly elected to the SAHC Board of Trustees

Carver’s Gap to Hampton Creek Cove – The Long Haul

“I and 5 fellow-hikers enjoyed a beautiful hike on the Appalachian Trail from Carvers Gap to the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail intersection in Yellow Mountain Gap. From there we followed the Overmountain Trail north to Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area where we joined the creekside Birchfield Trail. We were rewarded with some beautiful specimens of Gray’s lily on the grassy balds and sightings of native brook trout in pools along Hampton Creek. Hiking with old friends and making new ones – what better way to spend a day!”

-  hike leader Tom Gatti, SAHC’s first seasonal ecologist

‘Stand Up that Mountain’ – Hump Mountain hike with author Jay Leutze

Jay Leutze recounts stories of the land for the group.

“While attending the 50,000 acre celebration event at Highland Brewing Company, I heard Jay Leutze tell a story from his recently published book, ‘Stand Up That Mountain’ in his charming Southern drawl. I ribbed my husband Robbie, who was sitting next to me, telling him that that man can tell a story, that I admired his passion and steadfastness.

The next morning, Robbie and I signed up for Jay’s hike up Little Horse Creek to Big Hump in the Highlands of Roan during the June Jamboree. I came away from the hike moved, with a renewed sense of respect and confidence in SAHC’s work.

Hiking on Hump Mountain.

Jay is a story teller, recounting details and conversations with an enthralling eloquence. So as our small troop picked our way through an understory of nettles and briars, we listened intently to the stories of the land, the people and his efforts to save a mountain from mining. We learned what wildflower soothes the nettle’s sting; we heard stories of a farmer herding his Watusi cattle in the high lush meadows; we marveled at the vast resonating vistas.

Big Hump Bald is a stunning, unmistakably significant place.  It is there that we fully grasped Jay’s substantial work. Knowing the history of the land, I appreciate it more. Hearing the stories of the people who lived there, I respect it more. The guided hike made me wonder what I’ve missed on all the other trails I have hiked.”

- Jennifer McLucas, SAHC volunteer

Birding at Hampton Creek Cove

Seasonal Ecologist Chris Coxen leads the search for birds at Hampton Creek Cove.

“Like the rest of the Jamboree participants, the folks on the birding hike enjoyed the beautiful, clear skies that Saturday on Roan. What better place to enjoy a sunny day than the rolling fields of Hampton Creek Cove? And, it was indeed sunny — which helped to show off the colorful blues, reds, and yellows of the birds we spotted! While we did not see any Golden-winged Warblers, we got to see plenty of Indigo Buntings, Chestnut-sided Warblers, American Goldfinches, and both Song and Field Sparrows. My favorite sighting of the day was the Scarlet Tanager sitting high up in a locust snag, singing its heart out for all to see.

A couple of unexpected locals joined us at the beginning of the hike – one old brown dog and one young black dog looking for adventure. Our morning mostly consisted of a leisurely hike around the edges of the pastures, everyone birding and botanizing and enjoying the fellowship. After working our way through the pasture, we dropped down along the creek side trail to rest and snack.

Just as we were snacking under the shade, a high pitched bleet broke the peace. With a bolt, a deer fawn came tearing through our group, cutting back and forth with the black dog nipping at its heels. After a long chase, the fawn escaped through the field above us and was seen walking next to its mother. Relieved and rested, we finished the hike at one of the upper fields of the cove, admiring the view of the valley and learning a few new wildflowers before setting back to the cars below.”

- hike leader Chris Coxen, SAHC Seasonal Ecologist

Yoga on the Mountain

Yoga on the Mountain group.

“SAHC members and friends enjoyed a fun and invigorating day on Roan Mountain as part of the conservancy’s annual June Jamboree.  This day of outdoor activities celebrates our achievements in our highest priority conservation landscape.  Nine eager yogis embarked the Yoga on the Mountain hike, which began on SAHC’s National Trails Tract.  This property is bounded by the Overmountain Victory Trail, and comes within feet of the Appalachian Trail.

Participants enjoyed class in a high mountain meadow.

Participants crossed native trout streams, walked through migratory bird habitat, and ascended northern hardwood forest slopes before emerging into a beautiful meadow in Pisgah National Forest.  There was resting, eating and discussion before Alexandra Ulrey led the group in a gentle Anusara yoga class.  Inspired by the sun’s warmth, gentle breezes and breathtaking views, Alexandra helped us become grounded on the mountain, drawing strength from it and renewing our dedication to supporting its preservation.”

- Michelle Pugliese, SAHC Land Protection Director

Kids in the Creek

A perfect hike for kids of all ages.

Kids begin the adventure in the creek.

“Six intrepid explorers ranging in age from 2-8 explored the beautiful waters of Roaring Creek. We climbed rocks, swam in shallow pools, caught salamanders and crayfish, and even visited a waterfall. There was more excitement in those three hours than I have seen in the past three months combined!

We learned about how some salamanders breath through their skin and how crayfish shed their carapace. We examined these creatures through magnifying glasses, took the temperature of Roaring Creek, and a transformed into ‘polar bears’ — A process wherein the kids took turns jumping into a pool of water while spectators shouted ‘polar bear’ three times. When the children emerged from the icy depths, they stood proud and tall as newly minted polar bears. It was day full of full of learning and adventure.”

- hike leader Rich Preyer, SAHC Americorps Outreach Associate

A treasure hunt for wildlife in the stream.

Crayfish – gently released.

 

As the hikes completed, our adventurers regrouped at the conference center of the Roan Mountain State Park to enjoy refreshments and further fellowship. Carl Silverstein, SAHC Executive Director, also gave a short presentation about the importance of SAHC’s work in protecting the beautiful countryside we had all savored during the day.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and to those who contributed to this blog!

Baa-tany Goat Project another Success!

27 Goats and two Great Pyrenees waiting to head up to Jane Bald

The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC), Friends of Roan Mountain, and the Chargers hiking club had a terrific day herding goats up to Jane Bald in the Highlands of Roan for the 5th Annual Herding of the Goats for the Baa-tany Goat Project. Todd Eastin, who watches the goats for the majority of the year, led the charge and got 27 goats, two Great Pyrenees, and about forty people to the paddock on Jane Bald.

The rooster still had not crowed when participants arrived at Carvers Gap and although it was early, everyone was ready to lend a hand to get the goats to their new home for the summer atop Jane Bald. Todd gave the group a tactical breakdown of how to herd the goats up the mountain and after a safety briefing from Jamey Donaldson, the primary Botanist and Coordinator of the project,  everyone was ready to go. The first goats out of the trailer were a three day old baby and her mama. One of our volunteers, six year old Sophia, had the task of carrying the baby goat all the way to Jane Bald. Hiking up Round Bald and Jane Bald empty-handed is hard enough so everyone was impressed with Sophia’s resolve.

Toad Eastin with Sophia and a baby goat in her arms get ready to head up the mountain.

There were several hiccups along the way as three of the more strong-willed-goats escaped the clutches of the volunteer herders. One of the those goats was recaptured while the other two remained at large for the next two days. Fortunately, goats #215 and #709 wandered back up  to the paddock several days later and now the herd is safe and happily munching on blackberry.

Every June and September, SAHC participates in the Baa-tany Goat Project. As an avid reader of this blog, you might ask, “why would a land trust tend the field and shepherd a herd of goats?” The answer is surprisingly simple. The Highlands of Roan, SAHC’s flagship focus area, is one of the highest summits in the Appalachian Mountain range. Roan Mountain is unsurpassed in the south for the diversity of “northern” plant and animal species, remnants of the last Ice Age which have persisted in its cool high elevation climate. Thus, the purpose of the project is to restore the grassy ridge corridors using goats as an experimental management tool.

If you are interested in finding out more about the project or participating with SAHC next time, we will be helping Todd and Jamey bring the goats down from Jane Bald sometime in September.

Free Guided Hikes in the Highlands of Roan – June Jamboree 2012

On Saturday, June 23, SAHC will host a day of free, guided hikes in the Highlands of Roan. This year’s annual June Jamboree is something special  — part of a year-long celebration for protecting 50,0000 acres from the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Highlands of Roan!

For the 2012 June Jamboree, SAHC is offering six guided hikes with a variety of special themes and difficulty levels, all designed to give participants a feel for the conservancy’s work as well as the ways in which people can enjoy the protected landscape. Participants can choose between a birding hike to Hampton Creek Cove, relaxing hike and yoga class in the Roaring Creek Valley, kids’ play day in the creek with fun stream ecology, and ridgeline hikes on the Roan balds with opportunities to view native flowering plants like Catawba rhodododendron and flame azalea. (See details below)

“We are so thankful that we have been able to accomplish the work we have done. We want to get people outdoors to appreciate what land protection really means to them,” notes SAHC’s Executive Director Carl Silverstein. “This year, we are especially pleased that we will be celebrating the protection of over 50,000 acres in this stunning landscape.”

To register for the June Jamboree, click here call (828) 253-0095, ext. 205. This event is free and open to the public.

Detailed description of the event:

Saturday, June 23rd

Adventures in the stunning Highlands of Roan. Roan Mountain State Park will be our headquarters this year.

Schedule:

8:00 a.m. – Participants have the opportunity to meet for coffee at the Pavilion of Roan Mountain State Park before hikes begin.

7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Hikes in the Highlands of Roan (see individual descriptions below)

4:00 to 6:00 p.m. - Social & presentation at the State Park Conference Center following the conclusion of hikes, with light snacks and beverages.

Hike Descriptions

Hike #1: Carvers Gap to Grassy Ridge
Leader: David Smith, former SAHC board member and Seasonal Ecologist
Start Time: 9:00 a.m. Saturday, June 23
Difficulty: 7.5 (see hike key note below)
Departure Location: Carvers Gap Parking Lot

This classic hike is an adventure through the highest elevation Roan balds, which are considered among the most spectacular scenery along the entire Appalachian Trail. Grassy Ridge, elevation 6,189 feet, is the highest point near the AT with a natural unobstructed 360 degree view and offers so much more with rhododendron, flame azalea, patches of spruce fir forest, and rare plants such as Gray’s lily and Roan Mountain bluets. Those wishing an easier hike can enjoy the flowers and expansive views from Round Bald or Jane Bald instead of going all the way to Grassy Ridge.

Hike #2: Carvers Gap to Hampton Creek Cove
Leader: Tom Gatti, SAHC’s first Seasonal Ecologist
Start Time: 7:45 a.m. Saturday, June 23
Difficulty: 9 (see hike key note below)
Departure Location: Visitors Center/Museum with waterwheel — Town of Roan Mountain

Like hike #1, hikers will trek to Grassy Ridge but have the opportunity to continue further onto beautiful Hampton Creek Cove. After making it to Grassy Ridge, hikers will descend several thousand feet to make it to Hampton Creek Cove. Tom Gatti, SAHC’s first Seasonal Ecologist will lead the way on this strenuous yet worthwhile adventure.

Half of the group will need to drop cars off at the Town of Roan Mountain Visitor center so that when the hike finishes everyone will have a ride back to Carvers Gap parking lot where the hike begins.

Hike #3: Big Hump Hike (“Stand Up That Mountain”)

At this point, this hike is FULL. We have begun a waiting list.

Leader: Jay Leutze, SAHC Board Member and author of “Stand Up That Mountain”
Start Time: 9:00 a.m. Saturday, June 23
Difficulty: 7 (see hike key note below)
Departure Location: Minneapolis Baptist Church in downtown Minneapolis, NC
Hike Limit : 10

Join author, Jay Leutze,  and experience the landscape that inspired his new book.  This hike is a steep pull, but the footing will be good.  Hikers will travel up along Little Horse Creek, then climb a ridge to a pasture with spectacular views — and possibly a herd of Watusi cattle.  Hikers will then climb to the summit of Hump Mountain (Big Hump), a grassy bald with 360 degree views. This is the least-visited of the grassy balds in the Roan and this hike affords a unique opportunity to travel a little-known route.  Hike time 4-5 hours round-trip.

Hike #4: Birding at Hampton Creek Cove
Leader: Chris Coxen, SAHC’s Seasonal Ecologist
Start Time: 9:00 a.m. Saturday, June 23
Difficulty: 5 (see hike key note below)
Departure Location: Hampton Creek Cove Parking Lot

Grab your binoculars for this four-mile roundtrip hike in Hampton Creek Cove. Birders will have the opportunity to experience some of the most exquisite birds in the area. Expect to hear the early morning songs of the Willow flycatcher, the Alder flycatcher, and the Golden-winged warbler.

The old field/forest succession at the lower mountain elevation provides excellent nesting habitat for golden- winged warblers, a declining neo-tropical migrant species. Because the area is so important to this warbler, the National Audubon Society designated it an “Important Bird Area” in 2005. So come out and enjoy this beautiful bird sanctuary.

Hike #5: Yoga on the Mountain
Leader: Alexandra Ulrey, yoga instructor, and Michelle Pugliese, SAHC’s Land Protection Director
Start Time: 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 23
Difficulty: 4 (see hike key note below)
Departure Location: Beck Property Entrance

Lay your yoga mat in the open that is tucked within the stunning landscape of the Highlands of Roan. Prepare to move into your exalted warrior or tree pose while feeling the sun warm your skin and the high elevation breezes simultaneously cool you. Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese will lead you on an easy to moderate hike through our protected National Trails Tract in the Roaring Creek Valley, along pristine streams and critical bird habitat, to the Pisgah National Forest for a gentle yoga practice. The meadow lies below the Appalachian Trail Yellow Mountain and overlooks one of SAHC’s most cherished conservation focus areas. After the yoga practice we will walk the short gravel road that is the route of the Overmountain Victory Trail back to our cars. We also have the option of visiting nearby Elk Hollow Creek waterfall after the Yoga session. Namaste.

Hike #6: Kids’ Day in the Creek
Leader: Rich Preyer, SAHC’s PR and Outreach Associate
Start Time: 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 23
Difficulty: 3 (see hike key note below)
Departure Location: Beck Property Entrance

Bring your kids to come play in the creek on SAHC’s beautiful Beck Tract. This shorter hike is designed to get kids to explore some of the beautiful water protected by SAHC. Kids will learn about basic stream ecology, look for crayfish and salamanders, and potentially see some native brook trout. Kids are welcome to bring fishnets, buckets, or other toys to play with in the creek. This hike is for kids 7 and older. Parents are welcome to participate as well. Don’t forget to bring water shoes, a towel, and bathing suit.

50,000 Acres — For You, Forever!

We had a phenomenal time at our member event last week at Highland Brewing Company in Asheville, NC! On Thursday May 17, we celebrated our 50,000 acre milestone with members, volunteers, sponsors, and guests.

The energetic April Fools Old Time Band (out of Moore County, NC) took the stage at 6:00 p.m., as the Tasting Room began to fill with celebrants.  Nona Mia Ritrovo provided an exceptional spread for dinner, and exciting raffle items filled the foyer of Highland Brewing Company’s Tasting Room.

During the evening program, Executive Director Carl Silverstein presented a brief recap of the 2011 projects which pushed us over the 50,000 acres protected milestone. He also addressed the question “What does it take to protect 50,000 acres?” The answer — Determined volunteers, members, staff, trustees, conservation partners, and supporters!

Carl and Jeanette Blazier, President of the Board of Trustees, presented the 2012 Stan Murray Volunteer of the Year Award to four Warren Wilson Forestry Students: Nick Biemiller, Kira Santulli,  Sarah Jamison, and Rhys Brydon-Williams.

Nick, Kira, Sarah, and Rhys provided extraordinary help to SAHC in our initiative to restore Golden-winged warbler habitat on Little Hump Mountain in the Highlands of Roan. This is a major restoration project of SAHC to increase early successional habitat on Little Hump, funded by a grant from the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Nick, Kira, Sarah, and Rhys hiked several miles with their own heavy equipment and offered their forestry skills to further our conservation efforts on the mountain. Their volunteer hours leveraged our paid grant work, allowing us to further increase the amount of early successional habitat on Little Hump mountain.

This project solidified an enduring partnership between SAHC and Warren Wilson Forestry department. The school naturally attracts dedicated individuals with an enthusiasm for environmental stewardship. SAHC hopes to continue this wonderful partnership for years to come.

Jeanette also recognized the inspiring achievements of retiring trustee Jay Leutze and presented him with an engraved award for his service.

Jay grew up hiking, camping, and exploring the Southern Appalachians.  He deeply loves these mountains, and revels in their fragile wonder.  He is driven to ensure that their ecology will remain intact for the future.

In 2008, Jay helped pass state legislation authorizing the Yellow Mountain State Natural Area adjacent to the Highlands of Roan. Since then, he has led the protection of more than 1,500 acres of critically important high elevation habitat there, with a long-term goal is to protect 30,000 more acres. He also stopped the proposed Putnam Mine, which would have devastated views from the Appalachian Trail in the Highlands of Roan.

Jay played a crucial role in protecting the 10,000-acre Rocky Fork tract along the Appalachian Trail in East Tennessee. He worked tirelessly with SAHC’s partners to secure the property, and he has been a trusted advocate in Congress for funds to help pay for the tract being added to the Cherokee National Forest for present and future generations to visit and enjoy. As a constant and heroic advocate for conservation, Jay testified on Capitol Hill in support of the Land and Water Conservation Fund.  His constant presence and vigilance in Washington, DC has advanced conservation locally as well as nationally.

Patty Cunningham-Woolf and Greg Gregory were elected each to a first 3-year term on the Board of Trustees, and Leslie Casse and Florence Krupnick will return to each serve a second 3-year term with the Board.

Patty Cunningham-Woolf
Patty is a REALTOR with Keller Williams Professionals in Asheville. Her summers were spent backpacking and camping in the Smokies and surrounding mountains, where she developed her deep love of the area’s natural resources.  Patty is a long time member of SAHC, the Blue Ridge Society, and The American Chestnut Foundation. While a Director for the Asheville Board of REALTORS, Patty helped to create an Eco designation for area brokers, a first of its kind in the U.S. She is a 12-year resident of Asheville with her husband, Ben, son Joseph, and daughter Katie.

Lyman J. (“Greg”) Gregory, III
Greg is an attorney with the Asheville firm of Marshall, Roth, and Gregory. He is a native of Asheville and actively volunteers in numerous community activities, focusing in particular on land use planning and environmental law. He has served on the SAHC Land Management and Stewardship Committee for several years, and has advised SAHC on legal questions relating to conservation easements and other matters. Greg, his wife Michele and their son Gabriel enjoy hiking in North Carolina’s mountains.

Leslie Casse
Leslie has brought her broad professional background in public relations, marketing, journalism, law, and public policy to SAHC’s Membership Development and Communications programs. She has a longstanding love of Roan and other special places in the Southern Appalachians. She, her husband Daniel and their two children live in Asheville. Leslie’s father Charlie McCullough is a past President of the SAHC Board of Trustees.

Florence Krupnick
Florence is active on the SAHC Membership Committee and has hosted cultivation events on behalf of SAHC. She is active in a number of causes on behalf of outdoor recreation, the environment, and children. She, her husband Jack and their children live in Asheville. Florence has worked hard on behalf of the Blue Ridge Society, a philanthropic giving society that benefits SAHC and CTNC.

We had a wonderful celebratory party with our members & guests. Thank you for joining us! We also want to extend an enormous THANK YOU to all our event sponsors and raffle item donors!

Highland Brewing Company Roberts & Stevens, PA Webb Investment Services White Oak Financial Management Nature’s Knots Custom Furniture USA Raft Molly Dingledine Jewelry Eberhard & Jean Heide Carolyn Novak Sandy Mush Herb Nursery Carolina Native Nursery The Frame & Mirror Hickory Nut Gap Farm

Nona Mia/Ritrovo Shoji Spa & Lodge Grove Arcade Navitat Canopy Adventures Henco Reprographics Biltmore Company The Silver Smith Thyme in the Garden Batton Clayworks The Weinhaus Advantage Printing Sundance Farms Outdoor Bird Company Omnium Body WorksA

Altamont Environmental, Inc. Second Gear Green River Woods Mahoney’s Outfitters TheFoundling.com Common Ground Distributors, Inc One Center Yoga Ken Maness David A. Ramsey, Nature Photography Reems Creek Nursery Linville River Pottery Black Dome Mountain Sports

 

Jammin’ at the Gott Farm

Gott Farm with White Rocks and Camp Creek Bald in the distant background

Last Thursday, Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) staff members enjoyed another sensational day at Peter and Polly Gott’s idyllic farm. Tucked away deep in Madison County, the 218-acre Gott Farm is surrounded by Pisgah National Forest on two sides, there are abundant springs, wet coves full of wild edibles, viable soil for farming, and breathtaking views. Their farm is truly an ecological gem.

Peter and Polly Gott with dog Katie

Our visit started out with a tour of the Gott’s log cabin, which Peter meticulously made using hand tools and historic methods. The precision and perfection of Peter’s craftsmanship was exhibited in every other building on their property as well. Peter’s tools were impeccably organized and the woodsheds were stacked so systematically, you would think the logs were books in a library. After a tour of Polly’s old art studio (which Peter also made) and their sauna by the river, the staff headed to the top of their property to enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking White Rocks and iconic Camp Creek Bald.

The real fun began after lunch when the instruments were pulled out for some old-fashioned music making. Peter led the charge on his banjo, while SAHC’s Emily Bidgood and Margot Wallston piped in on the fiddle, Jamie Ervin played the guitar, and Hanni Muerdter strummed on the mandolin. Peter’s daughter and grandsons brought it altogether with a rendition of “Bury me Beneath the Willow.” The celebration culminated with SAHC staff dancing their socks off. Peter called each dance and his daughter Susie played on the fiddle. It was a grand ol’ time.

Peter and SAHC crew playing some tunes

Visiting the Gott Farm has become a tradition that all the staff look forward to every year. When the trees start blooming and the flowers are out, everyone knows it is time to visit the property again. “Peter and Polly are two of the sweetest people I’ve ever met. Their generosity towards others and love for their land is pervasive in everything that they do.” Said SAHC Membership Director, Cheryl Fowler.

“It was also nice for our staff to see and experience the fruits of our labor firsthand. Because we do much of our work sitting in front of desks everyday, it’s easy to sometimes lose track of the bigger picture and forget why we protect these pieces of land.”  Said SAHC executive director, Carl Silverstein. “After a trip like today, it reaffirms for SAHC staff on a personal level, why we continue to protect land that has so much conservation and sentimental value.”

Namaste, Yoga on the Mountain

The first weekend of October, the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) joined up with Lighten Up Yoga, for a wonderful Sunday afternoon of hiking and chaturangas on beautiful Hemphill Bald, in Maggie Valley, North Carolina.

Folks came out for a gorgeous day that warmed up nicely. The group was led up the mountain by SAHC’s Allison Kiehl. Once up top, everyone practiced poses under the tutelage of Lighten up Yoga’s instructor, Kim Drye, for an opportunity to get out of the studio and practice outside besides an incredible collage of fall colors.

Hemphill Bald was an exceptionally special spot to practice yoga not only because of the unrivaled views and grassy balds but also as a means of celebrating such a remarkable conservation easement in western North Carolina. Hemphill bald is one of the seven other conservation easements at Cataloochee Ranch, in Maggie Valley, NC.

Cataloochee Ranch was founded in 1933 and epitomizes how an ecologically responsible farm/ranch should operate. With six easements totaling over 300  acres of gorgeous land, SAHC is proud to work with Cataloochee Ranch to protect western North Carolina’s mountains. There are a slew of other pieces of land that SAHC has protected that would offer an incredible environment to practice yoga.

“Yoga on the Mountain” has grown immensely popular since its inception last summer and SAHC hopes to continue the tradition this spring. There are an abundance of idyllic locations to choose from which offers participants an incredible experience no matter the spot. These hikes are great opportunities for members and non-members alike to enjoy some of the most beautiful protected areas in North Carolina and Tennessee.

With so many spectacular protected pieces of land to choose from, SAHC will continue to offer “yoga on the mountain” at different locations throughout the year. SAHC’s Land Protection Director and avid yoga fan, Michelle Pugliese says, “‘Yoga on the mountain’ is a great opportunity for folks to visit a property that is typically restricted from public use and then take a yoga class essentially for free (entirely free for members).”

Thanks to all of those who came out to Hemphill Bald and be on the lookout for another “yoga on the mountain” this spring.

For Love of Beer and Mountains: Hike to Little Hump Mountain

When you hike to the top of Little Hump Mountain in the Highlands of Roan, you see a completely unobstructed view of the surrounding mountains from its high elevation grassy bald. The Ridge and Valley Province lies to your west in Tennessee and the renowned peaks of Grandfather Mountain, Table Rock, and Linville Gorge rise to the east in North Carolina. Depending on the season, you could have  bluets at your feet and flame azaleas in your line of vision as you look out across the mountains.  When you visit this special place, you understand why conservationists have made this area a priority for protection.

The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, US Fish & Wildlife Service, and Highland Brewing Company became partners in 2010 to raise awareness of the importance of land protection in our region. To do that, Highland Brewing Company names their seasonal ales after protected peaks in the region. Little Hump Mountain was the inspiration for their spring seasonal. The three organizations led a guided hike to celebrate the release on Saturday, May 21st.

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