New Land Conservancy in Canton

Area of land connected to the Chestnut Mountain Nature Park to be restored by SAHC (https://appalachian.org)

Good news! A 4.16-acre parcel of land in the Town of Canton will expand the Chestnut Mountain Nature Park thanks to the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC). This area of Hominy Creek is easily accessible from Asheville Highway. In an effort to avoid commercial development and protect the floodplains, the Town of Canton contacted SAHC for assistance to acquire this newly listed parcel to conserve the natural area and offer more access to Chestnut Mountain Nature Park.

SAHC relies on contributions from donors, members, and grants to purchase land for conservancy. The funds also make restoration possible; the floodplains are still recovering from recent storm damage (Helene) and SAHC has the resources to clear debris and potentially restructure the land to better protect it from future floods.

Property ownership will be transferred to the Town of Canton after SAHC completes their restoration project, which is part of a continuing partnership to protect the natural habitat of the Chestnut Mountain property (448 acres were restored by SAHC and transferred to the Town of Canton in 2022). The conservancy of this entire property protects water resources and the diverse wildlife communities that would be diminished or destroyed by commercial development. When the Town of Canton opens the restored area to the public, park visitors will be able to access walking trails and may offer recreational creek access.

Source: Hominy Creek Expansion to Chestnut Mountain Nature Park - Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy