FROM the
Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
The view of Little Sandy Mush Bald, an iconic high elevation bald situated above rolling farms and coves, is prominent throughout the Sandy Mush community. Now, more of it has been permanently preserved for future generations. SAHC recently purchased 241 acres containing the northern slopes of Little Sandy Mush Bald. The tract also boasts some of the best northern hardwood forest in Madison County and adjoins two properties which had been previously protected with a conservation easement through SAHC.
“Our purchase and long-term commitment to conservation of this property rounds out the protection of this highly visible mountain bald,” said Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese.
The property rises to 4,800 feet in elevation at the summit of Little Sandy Mush Bald and is visible from the Appalachian Medley Scenic Byway (Highway 209). Little Bald Branch, classified as an Outstanding Resource Water by the NC Division of Water Quality, and three of its tributaries originate on and flow through the property. Additional forested communities on the property include Rich Cove, Acidic Cove, Montane Oak-Hickory, and High Elevation Red Oak.
“The eight members of the Grateful Union Family, Inc. who sold property to SAHC are an example of a group of people coming together with a common interest to share a piece of the earth, and making it work,” added Pugliese.
“Since 1979, they have shared this very special place, showing a commitment to their personal goals of living lightly on the earth and being good stewards of the land. It is rare to see this degree of cooperation among a group of people that stands the test of time. Now they have exhibited this same spirit of cooperation and passion to agree to sell the upper slopes of their land to SAHC so that it can be preserved forever.”
For more: go to Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s website.
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