Boiling Springs, PA (February 17, 2011) – The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), working in partnership with federal, state and local partners, has recently protected 840 acres of forested land on South Mountain in Cumberland County (known as the White Rocks). The White Rocks project is one of the early catalyst to the formation of the South Mountain Partnership and is an exciting accomplishment for all partners involved.The parcels will be acquired by the U.S. federal government, National Park Service for permanent protection of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. The purchase will protect open space and wildlife habitat, enhance the Appalachian Trail experience and provide protection to critical groundwater recharge areas that feed residential use in the valley and the cold water fishery of the Yellow Breeches Creek. Total project cost is $3.2 million.
“The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is fortunate to have built a strong partnership of committed private conservation organizations and public agencies to help with this effort. Open space protection projects of this magnitude and significance are rare in this rapidly developing region. We are grateful to the current owners who see the value of public ownership and permanent protection,” stated Karen Lutz, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
Funding for this land conservation project came from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund (Key 93), and local private contributions.
About the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail – ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come. For more information please visit www.appalachiantrail.org.
Contact:
Javier Folgar
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Tel. 304.535.6331 x117
Fax. 304.535.2667
Email: jfolgar@appalachiantrail.org
Web: www.appalachiantrail.org
