Beech Creek Bog

The Beech Creek Bog is the largest Southern Appalachian bog in North Carolina, and due to the efforts of the BRRLT is a new State Natural Area. Filled with endagered flora and fauna, including the northern flying squirrel, the gray's lily, the alder fly-catcher, and the endangered northern flying squirrel, the Bog is cherished for its unique biodiversity.

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Bullhead Mountain

The Herrings recently donated a conservation easement on their land to the Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust that allows construction of two more homes, in addition to their own. It also allows Christmas tree production and other agriculture on the land. Otherwise, the land they call Walnut Cove Farm must remain natural.

Judy and Paul Tobin put together their 140-acre Ashe County farm in increments, buying it in five parcels ranging from one to 93 acres since 1985.  Now, they've started a process of protecting the land by placing conservation easements on the property in stages. In return for giving up development rights, the Tobins received a tax credit based on the value of this donation as determined by an appraisal.  But more importantly for them, they have peace of mind. "I don't think we would be at rest unless we did this... We really feel we have been given this opportunity to protect the land, and that it would be a sacrilege to do otherwise," says Judy.

The Tobin Farm

Robert Richardson does not want to see his property developed.  The Waterfall Road Farm in Alleghany County is a 273 acre farm.  Approximately 40% of the farm is open pasture with the other 60% woodland. The farm has not been managed since the 1950’s.

 This property has spectacular views from the knoll in the southern portion, which are visible from the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Also, the three waterfalls on Waterfalls Creek and  the cathedral grove of hemlocks make the property  very susceptible to development.

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