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Read below for examples of recent land and historic preservation projects that are helping communities in the North Carolina mountains. If you'd like to suggest a project to be highlighted on this website, please e-mail nominations for projects to info@landfortomorrow.org.
- In 1999, Bryson City leaders came together to assess the major needs in their community. They were very concerned about problems with their aging water system and the number of vacant buildings in their once vibrant downtown. The challenge was to find the capital needed to address these problems. With technical assistance from The Conservation Fund and Land Trust for the Little Tennessee, they decided to sell a permanent conservation easement to the NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund that restricts future development in their water supply watershed, which is adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. They will use the funds from sale of the easement to upgrade their water system and revitalize the downtown business district. Through the easement, they will also protect public health and their economy by preventing inappropriate development in the watershed that might impact their water quality and disrupt wildlife and recreation in the park, the town's most important economic asset.
- "Visitors who follow the scenic ribbon of the Blue Ridge Parkway along mountain ridges are treated to views of the most interesting landforms and natural resources in North Carolina's mountains. It is little wonder that the Parkway is the most popular National Park in the United States, annually attracting over 14 million visitors and up to $2.3 billion for the local economy. The Parkway's importance goes beyond its national popularity and is deeply rooted in the culture of the Blue Ridge. It is the unifying element engendering a shared regional identity. However, the protected land along the Parkway averages only 800 feet wide. Much of the land adjacent to the Parkway is privately owned, and residential and commercial development is encroaching, threatening the scenic beauty treasured by millions." Conservation Trust for North Carolina and a number of local land trusts and national conservation groups have been working with the National Park Service to acquire land and easements in some of the most scenic stretches. Their work is helping to ensure that this historic park loved by all Americans retains its extraordinary beauty.
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