Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Request

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1 Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Request

2 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Total LWCF Request: $13,450,000 Project Name Agency District # Tracts Acres Total Cost Newton Lane, Green Mountain NF USFS VT 1 20 $200,000 Wind Gap / PA American Water, FWS PA ,129 $4,300,000 Cherry Valley / Delaware Water Gap PA-15 Mahtino / Alpine Rose, Cherry Valley NPS PA $3,500,000 Cherry Valley / Delaware Water Gap Campbell / Spy Rock USFS VA $750,000 George Washington NF Shook Branch, Cherokee NF NPS TN $850,000 Hump Mountain, Cherokee NF USFS TN $800,000 Roan Mountain Trails, Pisgah NF USFS NC $750,000 Ripshin Wetlands, Cherokee NF USFS TN $1,600,000 Rich Mountain, Cherokee NF USFS TN $700,000 Totals: 9 4,671 $13,450,000 Prepared in collaboration by: Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

3 APPALACHIAN NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Newton Lane Alpine Rose WindGap/PA American Water Campbell/Spy Rock Shook Branch Rich Mountain Hump Mountain Roan Mtn. Trails Ripshin Wetlands References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS Legend ANST PNTS Acquisition Sites Appalachian Trail SITE CONTEXT MAP FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy Miles This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail National Park Service Northeast Region; USFS Regions 8 & 9; USFWS Region 5 More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

4 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Newton Lane Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont Project Details LWCF Request: $200,000 Congressional District: VT, Representative Welch Acres: 20 Acquiring Agency: NPS Landscape Characteristics: Woodland with recreational trails adjacent to additional Newton Lane. undeveloped properties targeted for protection. Within an area identified as the Norwich- Hartford Greenway along a high ridge that borders both towns. Priority area for protection by local conservationists due to its proximity to the Appalachian Trail, higher elevation, recreational opportunities, and rural character. Benefits of Protection: This acquisition would fill a gap in the Appalachian Trail corridor that borders the parcel on two sides. Permanent protection would prevent the property from being developed as residential lots and contribute to a growing greenbelt of protected land. The parcel is mapped by the State of Vermont as significant deer wintering habitat and lies in close proximity to one or more rare, threatened, or endangered species or one or more significant natural communities mapped by the Nongame and Natural Heritage Program. The parcel also is proximate to the headwaters to Dothan Brook, a first order stream which drains into the Connecticut River. The entire Connecticut River watershed was designated the nation s first National Blueway by DOI in Threats to the Landscape: The parcel is currently on the market for residential development. Additional threats include agricultural conversion, visual intrusion (portions of the property are less then ¼ mile from the Appalachian Trail), potential motorized vehicle encroachment into the A.T. corridor, and loss of public access. Partner Contributions: Throughout the last 20 years, working with citizens groups and landowners in the Towns of Norwich and Hartford, the Upper Valley Land Trust has collaboratively protected numerous properties along this section of the Appalachian Trail to provide a meaningful buffer for the national scenic trail. More than 1000 acres have been permanently conserved within a 2 mile radius of the Newton Lane property through the use of conservation easements and through the determined efforts of UVLT and its municipal and non-profit partners. The land trust and local community hope that that the protection of the Newton Lane parcel will leverage the protection of additional nearby properties, which could require an additional $600,000-$1,000,000. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

5 20.3 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, Vermont GIS Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Newton Lane Tract USFS p ,000 Feet NEWTON LANE TRACT (VT) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail National Park Service, Northeast Region; USFS Region 9, Green Mountain NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

6 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Kittatinny Ridge - Cherry Valley/Delaware Water Gap Pennsylvania Landscape Characteristics: The 30,000-acre Cherry Valley harbors nationally significant ecosystems and many protected plants and animals, including federally listed threatened or endangered species. The adjacent Kittatinny Ridge is a major avenue for migrating birds of prey, songbirds, waterfowl and bats and a designated Important Birding Area by the Audubon Society. Unique habitats of the valley and the Kittatinny Ridge include pitch pine/scrub oak barrens, kettle hole bogs and caves, Cherry Creek and Aquashicola Creek. Unique species include bog turtle, dwarf wedge mussel, northeastern bulrush, bald eagle, spreading globe flower, and American eel. For generations, local landowners and conservation organizations safeguarded Cherry Valley s clean waters and important natural communities. Many of these residents are now members of Friends of Cherry Valley. Recent rapid residential and commercial growth in Monroe County outpaced efforts to protect these resources and prompted establishment of the Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The first 185 acres have been dedicated for permanent protection and 120 adjacent property owners have expressed interest in selling. The Appalachian Trail in this region traverses a narrow publically-protected corridor, features expansive viewsheds and is within a short drive to many major population centers including Philadelphia, Reading and Allentown. This landscape is adjacent to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and two PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Conservation Landscape Initiatives overlap with this landscape: Pocono Forests and Waters and Lehigh Valley Greenways. Wind Gap / PA American Water Project Details LWCF Request: $4,300,000 Congressional District: PA-11 and PA-15, Representatives Barletta and Dent Acres: 3,129 Acquiring Agency: FWS Benefits of Protection: The acquisition will protect 3,129 acres surrounding the and approximately four miles of corridor on both sides of the trail, thereby preserving the viewshed. The tract is within a watershed that Wind Gap / PA American Water tract. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

7 is key to supplies of municipal drinking water and will protect habitat for the globally rare Variable Sedge (Carex polymorpha). Threats to the Landscape: Destruction of natural and heritage resource, loss of public access, and residential development. Partner Contributions: NRCS is currently implementing a wetland easement program in the Cherry Valley area. The US Fish and Wildlife Service have made a significant investment in this area through the purchase of 185 acres and continued engagement in acquiring future lands for the recently established Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Several partners have provided in-kind contributions including The Conservation Fund and The Nature Conservancy. Mahtino / Alpine Rose Project Details LWCF Request: $3,500,000 Congressional District: PA-11, Representative Barletta Acres: 354 Acquiring Agency: NPS Benefits of Protection: Acquisition of this tract will preserve 354 acres that are within from the Appalachian Trail. This tract is proposed to become a racing resort with racetrack for luxury sports cars. The tract contains exceptional value wetlands associated with the Aquashicola Creek a designated The Alpine Rose tract. High Quality Cold Water and Migratory Fishery. Bog turtles have been known to use this parcel as part of their dispersal patterns. The wetland and more open habitat at the base of the ridge is breeding habitat to a number of species of birds that are uncommon, some of which are on a watch list. Birds observed include Blue-winged Warbler, Veery, Hermit Thrush, Least Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Common Raven, and Red-shouldered Hawk. The impacts of the proposed development would have a significant negative impact on the Trail s viewshed and soundshed and the area s natural resources. Threats to the Landscape: Agricultural conversion, commercial development, visual intrusion, and loss of public access. Partner Contributions: A group of Eldred Township residents formed the grassroots Blue Mountain Preservation Association that has sought ATC s support and leadership to prevent racetrack development. More recently, the trustees responsible for oversight of the funds provided for the replacement and restoration of resources damaged by the nearby Palmerton Zinc smelting operation through the Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) advocated acquisition and permanent protection of the subject tract. Several conservation partners have provided in-kind contribution including The Conservation Fund and Wildlands Conservancy. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

8 Wind Gap/ PA American Water 352 acres Cherry Valley NWR Wind Gap/ PA American Water 2601 acres Vicinity Wind Gap/ PA American Water 176 acres References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, Monroe County (PA), Northampton County (PA). Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Wind Gap/PA American Water NPS-APPA, USFWS State Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Other Conservation Land Cherry Valley NWR Approved Acquisition Area Miles Location of Site Map WIND GAP/PA AMERICAN WATER (PA) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail National Park Service Northeast Region USFWS Region 5 More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

9 393.6 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, Monroe County, PA Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Alpine Rose Tract NPS-APPA State Other Conservation Land p 0 1,500 3,000 Feet ALPINE ROSE TRACT (PA) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail National Park Service Northeast Region More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

10 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Campbell-Spy Rock George Washington National Forest, Virginia Project Details: LWCF Request: $750,000 Congressional District: VA-5, Representative Hurt Acres: 307 Acquiring Agency: USFS Landscape Characteristics: U.S. Forest Service personnel and staff of Appalachian Trail Conservancy have worked with landowners of the Campbell Tract for numerous years to acquire this 292 acre, high priority A view of Cambell-Spy Rock in the George Washington National Forest in Virginia. in-holding of the George-Washington National Forest, and an adjacent 15 acre parcel. The tract is currently owned by the family of one of the original settlements in Nelson County, Virginia. For over one hundred years portions of the Campbell tract have been subsistence farmed. Today there are several old field sites that offer early successional habitat suitable for important bird species and other wildlife. The tract also supports a cold water stream that can host brook trout. A recent study shows that acidity in Nelson counties mountain streams has decreased since 2000 and the streams are now considered sustainable for brook trout. Protecting the tract ensures that this freshwater system will continue to improve and provide important habitat. Protection also ensures access for fishing and recreation. Numerous early American artifacts have also been discovered on the property. No formal surveys have been conducted, but the extent of visible material suggests that the site was culturally significant. Benefits of Protection: 307 acres will be preserved, consolidating USFS ownership and protecting a priority viewshed for the Appalachian Trail. With an estimated three million visitors each year, the Appalachian Trail draws a wide variety of constituents seeking family recreational opportunities, youth and community outings, hiking, camping, backpacking, observing wildlife, and photography. The Trail is within a two and half hour drive from major metropolitan areas, offering easy access to a diverse demographic. Acquiring fee-simple interest to the Campbell tract will provide the public with an enjoyable route to experience the Appalachian Trail, and will consolidate a significant area of National Forest lands. The tract is visible from Spy Rock, one of the most scenic overlooks along the Appalachian Trail in northern Virginia. Recent changes with the landowners health precipitated interest in selling this tract to the U.S. Forest Service. Threats to the Landscape: Agricultural conversion, loss of public access, residential development, loss of heritage resources, visual intrusion, and loss of habitat for threatened and endangered resources. Partner Contributions: The Conservation Fund will make the initial offer on this property and have worked for the last year developing landowner relationships. The Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy have also supported connections to the landowner and engaged community representatives in supporting this important acquisition. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

11 292 acres 15 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, USFS, Nelson County (VA). Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Campbell/Spy Rock Tracts USFS Other Conservation Land 0 1,000 2,000 Feetp CAMPBELL/SPY ROCK TRACTS (VA) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail USFS Region 8, George Washington NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

12 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Shook Branch Cherokee National Forest Tennessee Project Details LWCF Request: $850,000 Congressional District: TN-1, Representative Roe Acres: 20 Acquiring Agency: NPS Landscape Characteristics: The Shook Branch tract provides a primitive corridor for the Shook Branch. Appalachian Trail as it travels from Watauga Lake to the Pond Mountain Wilderness. This new route will permit a much safer crossing of the very busy US321, prevent development adjacent to a USFS/TVA recreation area, and provide an improved corridor for wildlife. Benefits of Protection: This is the only break in the Appalachian Trail right of way in Tennessee. Acquisition will close this gap, allowing relocation of the trail to a safe and primitive new route, and will significantly improve sight distance and safety for the US321 crossing. Threats to the Landscape: Residential development, visual intrusion, and loss of public access. Partner Contributions: The local Appalachian Trail club (Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club) will work with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Cherokee National Forest to design, construct and maintain the trail relocation planned for this tract. The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy and The Conservation Fund are both working with the USFS on plans to help conserve this tract. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

13 20 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, USFS, Carter County (TN). Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Shook Branch Tract USFS ,500 Feetp SHOOK BRANCH TRACT (TN) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail USFS Region 8, Cherokee NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

14 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Hump Mountain Cherokee National Forest Tennessee Project Details LWCF Request: $800,000 Congressional District: TN-1, Representative Roe Acres: 276 Acquiring Agency: USFS Landscape Characteristics: The Hump Mountain tract is a high elevation Southern Hump Mountain. Appalachian Grassy Bald, which is home to a unique ecosystem including several threatened and endangered species and species of concern. The tract is also part of the culturally significant Roan Highlands landscape, a national natural landmark, and is surrounded on three sides by the Cherokee and Pisgah National Forests. Benefits of Protection: Completed protection of the Roan Highlands high elevation, southern Appalachian Grassy Bald ecosystem and protection of the Appalachian Trail viewshed. Threats to the Landscape: Agricultural conversion, residential development, visual intrusion, and loss of public access. Partner Contributions: The States of North Carolina and Tennessee have provided millions of dollars to purchase nearby tracts in the Roan Highlands. The Nature Conservancy and Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) have also used their funds to help purchase tracts nearby, as well as attracting millions in private donations. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

15 276 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, USFS, Carter County (TN). Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Hump Mountain Tract USFS p 0 2,000 4,000 Feet HUMP MTN. TRACT (TN) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail USFS Region 8, Cherokee NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

16 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Roan Mountain Trails Pisgah National Forest North Carolina Project Details: LWCF Request: $750,000 Congressional District: NC-11, Representative Meadows Acres: 62.4 Acquiring Agency: USFS Landscape Characteristics: This tract is 300 from the and is crossed by the Overmountain Victory Roan Mountain Trails. National Historic Trail. Protection of this tract would secure habitat for brook trout and golden winged warbler as well as the culturally significant site of an encampment of the Overmountain Boys on their march to Kings Mountain. Benefits of Protection: Protection of the best view in the Southern Appalachians (according to Backpacker Magazine) as seen from the Appalachian Trail s Overmountain Shelter. This tract is an inholding, surrounded by the Pisgah NF. Threats to the Landscape: Loss of public access, residential development, loss of heritage resources, visual intrusion, and loss of habitat for threatened and endangered resources. Partner Contributions: The States of North Carolina and Tennessee have provided millions of dollars to purchase nearby tracts in the Roan Highlands. The Nature Conservancy and Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) have also used their funds to help purchase tracts nearby, as well as attracting millions in private donations. The USFWS is an active partner in the management of the Roan Highlands due to a number of listed species and species of concern. The golden winged warbler habitat on this tract is of particular interest to USFWS. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has planned to make a ~$20,000 contribution to support acquisition costs. SAHC has purchased and is holding the property, and is assisting with management and protection. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

17 62.4 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, USFS, Avery County (NC). Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Roan Mtn. Trails Tract USFS Other Conservation Land p 0 2,000 4,000 Feet ROAN MTN. TRAILS TRACT (NC) & OVNHT FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail USFS Region 8, Pisgah NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

18 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Ripshin Wetlands Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee Project Details LWCF Request: $1,600,000 Congressional District: TN-1, Representative Roe Acres: 403 Acquiring Agency: USFS Landscape Characteristics: This property is adjacent to the Ripshin Wetlands. Moffett Laurel Botanical Area Rare Community and Ripshin Ridge Rare Community. The Ripshin tract does not disappoint expectations raised by this proximity it contains documented habitat and breeding grounds for the Bog Turtle, a state threatened species and federally listed threatened species within an Appalachian Highlands Bog. Six state-listed plants and animals are documented on this site. Two state-threatened and one special concern species also live on this property. The cliff top viewpoints are great stopping points for Appalachian Trail hikers. Conservation of this tract will provide significant protection for the Appalachian Trail viewshed. Benefits of Protection: Acquisition of tract would protect this special habitat and Appalachian Trail view. This tract is surrounded on three sides by the Cherokee National Forest. Threats to the Landscape: Agricultural conversion, residential development, visual intrusion, and loss of public access. Partner Contributions: The Conservation Fund will be working with the Cherokee NF to acquire this tract. The volunteers from the Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club have designed an A.T. relocation to be built in cooperation with the ATC to enhance the A.T. route across the cliffs on Little Rock Knob and improve views across the Ripshin Wetlands. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

19 403 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, USFS, Carter County (TN). Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Ripshin Wetlands Tracts USFS p 0 1,000 2,000 Feet RIPSHIN WETLANDS TRACTS (TN) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail USFS Region 8, Cherokee NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)

20 National Trails System Land and Water Conservation Fund FY2014 Rich Mountain Cherokee National Forest Tennessee Project Details: LWCF Request: $700,000 Congressional District: TN-1, Representative Roe Acres: 100 Acquiring Agency: USFS Landscape Characteristics: The Rich Mountain tract is at the crest of the Bald Mountains, at the top of the Sampson Mountain Autumn splendor on Rich Mountain. Wilderness, and is part of the foreground corridor of the Appalachian Trail. Visible from over 30 miles of the Appalachian Trail as it winds around Unicoi County, Tennessee, this tract is crucial to completion of the Appalachian Trail corridor and viewshed in the Cherokee National Forest. This tract will also provide links in an important multi-use non-motorized trails system and protect a unique high-elevation heath bald community. Benefits of Protection: Protection of this iconic inholding a few hundred feet from the Appalachian Trail. This tract is completely surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest. Threats to the Landscape: Agricultural conversion, residential development, visual intrusion, and loss of public access. Partner Contributions: The surrounding Rocky Fork tract has over $6,000,000 invested in its protection by the State of Tennessee, and over $3,000,000 by private donors. The Conservation Fund and Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy are working in close cooperation with the ATC and Cherokee NF to acquire this tract. Prepared in collaboration by: Prepared by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (828) x12 The Partnership for the National Trails System (608)

21 100 acres Vicinity Location of Site Map References All Data: Appalachian Trail GIS Office USGS, USFS, Greene County (TN). Disclaimer Original data was compiled from multiple source data and may not meet the U.S. National Mapping Accuracy Standard of the Office of Management and Budget. This map has no warranties as to its contents or accuracy. Legend Appalachian Trail (NST) Rich Mountain Tract USFS p 0 1,000 2,000 Feet RICH MTN. TRACT (TN) FY'14 National Trails System LWCF Collaborative Funding Proposal This map depicts the approximate location of proposed acquisition for the Appalachian National ScenicTrail USFS Region 8, Cherokee NF More detailed cadastral maps can be requested from NPS APPA ( Park Office)