Additional Acreage Added to Wiles Creek Preserve

Updated map of Wiles Creek Preserve in Mitchell County, NC

Good news! Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) has acquired the permanent protection of an additional 48 acres for the Wiles Creek Preserve in the Roan Highlands. The property adjoins the Pisgah National Forest and is a valuable fount of diversity: many species of birds, pollinators, fish, salamanders, and more will safely sustain the vital ecosystems of Wiles Creek Preserve’s pristine streams, wildflower meadows, and hardwood forest. The new parcel closes a gap in the existing preserve, which will improve management of the overall natural habitat. Protecting our natural landscape from development by putting it into conservancy means protecting rare species (Northern Saw-whet owl, Golden-winged Warbler) and native plant life (bee balm, black-eyed susan). We are fortunate to see these breathtaking vistas while hiking through the Iron Mountain Gap or the Rhododendron Gardens. Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese stated, “It was one of those experiences when you reach the top of your hiking destination and turn around to be awed by the views. We already knew from the maps and natural resource data that we wanted to protect this property. Seeing it in person brought it to life. Now this special land will continue to provide habitat for rare species, and its slopes will remain unspoiled as seen by hikers on the Appalachian Trail.”

Read more details about the conservancy at: Wiles Creek Preserve Addition - Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy

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