Press release from RiverLink:
A generous landowners in Madison County donated over 13 acres along the French Broad River in conservation easement to RiverLink’s Forever Option Program. The project began through the French Broad River Paddle Trail. The owner’s first came to us interested in hosting a campsite for the trail, and as we talked about the project, stewardship of the river, and our natural resources, they spoke of the desire to place some of their property under conservation.
This is a great example of how a recreational resource, can be a catalyst for stewardship, conservation, and economic development. We are excited that two of our campsite locations on the French Broad River paddle Trail are surrounded by 10+ acres of conserved riparian and forest land. If you would like to camp at these locations please use our interactive French Broad River Paddle Trail Map. To share your experience or , learn more about the river directly from the paddling community, stay up to date on events and volunteer opportunities, or help us maintain the trail, please JOIN THE PADDLE TRAIL FORUM.
Conservation easements are an increasingly popular tool to protect lands and water
as well as preserve our mountain heritage.The Forever Option targets riparian and steep slope areas of our mountain region. Its goal is to join landowners in protecting land, streams, and water quality for perpetuity. Conservation easements are strictly voluntary and are tailored to both the needs of the land and the landowner’s desired use of that land. The donor of an easement always retains title to the property, and agreements never involve conditions that have not been approved by the landowner.
If you have any questions or for more information on conservation easements please contact, Nancy at WaterResources@riverlink.org
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