BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. (828newsNOW) — With the addition of 336 acres of forest overlooking Lake Eden, the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy has officially preserved over 100,000 acres of land across the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee.
The Lake Eden conservation easement comprises land around Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain, N.C., home to rare plant species like Stone Mountainmint, Browneyed Susan, Allegheny Onion and Blue Ridge Catchfly.
Adjacent to the tract is the former Black Mountain College campus, a 20th-century experimental arts school that remains a historic draw for the region. Another notable neighbor was LEAF, or the Lake Eden Arts Festival, a beloved arts and music festival held in the area.
“This land inspires greatness,” said Michelle Pugliese, land protection director for the SAHC. “The forested ridges and natural beauty surrounding Lake Eden created an inspiring setting for the experimental Black Mountain College. The land continues to foster a connection between nature and people, invigorating generations of young leaders through Camp Rockmont’s programs. Beautiful water cascades create quiet locations to contemplate life and soak in the environment. The upper elevations of the property contain rare and important habitat types.”
The land will be owned and managed by Lake Eden Preserve LLC, with recreation opportunities for Camp Rockmont campers.
“Nothing makes me happier than knowing that we collectively are preserving this land from development for future generations. Not just generations of humans, but generations of wildlife, of aquatic life, of forest and plant life. I’m proud to be part of the group that recognized the important legacy of this land, and grateful that we all put a shoulder to our roles as stewards,” said Chuck Flournoy, director of Lake Eden Preserve.
SAHC will celebrate the 100,000 acre milestone from 4-6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 4, with a special event at Highland Brewing Company. Find more information at www.appalachian.org/event/100k-acres-protected-celebration.