Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy Protects Tract Near Pisgah National Forest

The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy recently acquired 48 acres adjacent to the Pisgah National Forest in the Highlands of Roan.

Located less than 2 miles from the Appalachian Trail and the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Gardens, the Broad Branch tract adjoins Pisgah National Forest and contains a broad mix of habitat. SAHC plans to own and manage the property for long-term forest health and water quality.

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

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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 percent of the property falls within the Roan Mountain Important Bird Area (IBA), as designated by the National Audubon Society.

Important Bird Areas 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 greatest diversity of birds in the N.C. and Tenn. mountains. To date, 188 species have been recorded, 31 of which are high priority species.

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 N.C. Division of Water Resources). SAHC will complete a biological inventory and protect the water and forest resources.

“The tract was slated for development,” continues 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.”