Western NC Forestland Protected by The Conservation Fund

Jackson County -- The Conservation Fund stated earlier this month that an important area in the Great Balsam Mountains of western

North Carolina is now protected as forest and natural land.

The Balsam Gap property covers about 3,850 acres and links to 770,000 acres of land that has already been protected. This effort is part of a 25-year commitment from federal, state, and private organizations to safeguard more than 12,000 acres of forests, animal areas, water sources, and recreational spaces in the region. The area near Balsam Gap is very important for The Conservation Fund and other groups working to protect land next to the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is one of the National Park Service's most popular places, bringing in millions of people each year. The land is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, with nearly four miles of shared border. It offers amazing views along a 17-mile section of the Parkway, featuring five scenic overlooks.

“This project represents an incredible opportunity to protect a landscape rich in conservation values,” said Mainspring Executive Director Jordan Smith. “Its proximity to the Parkway and adjacency to already conserved lands made the decision to accept this conservation easement a clear choice for Mainspring’s staff and board. We are deeply grateful to The Conservation Fund for their collaboration and, most importantly, to the landowners for their generous contribution to conservation. Their gift will have a lasting impact on the region and North Carolina for generations to come.”