The Blue Ridge Conservancy announced a major land acquisition in Ashe County. It's part of a community effort to preserve Paddy Mountain.
For years, community members in the town of West Jefferson and Ashe County have looked for ways to ensure the protection of their scenic mountain views as the area continues to grow.
The Blue Ridge Conservancy partnered with them in their mission. The nonprofit recently purchased more than 100 acres of private property on Paddy Mountain. The price tag: $1.2 million. A coalition of local government officials, business owners and private donors came together to help raise the funds.
Charlie Brady, executive director of the Blue Ridge Conservancy, says the land purchase will have an impact on this area for years to come.
“The acquisition of the 152 acres on Paddy Mountain will ensure that mountain will forever remain in a forested natural state," says Brady. "And just as important, it will now be available for public access and recreation.”
Brady says next up is creating hiking trails and recreational activities that highlight the natural setting of Paddy Mountain.
He says future plans could include a potential trailhead for a new state project known as the Northern Peaks Trail.
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