Natural Resources

The Foundation and gateway communities along the Parkway are entering a new phase of the Blue Ridge Rising initiative. After hosting more than 35 meetings in 29 counties and the inaugural Blue Ridge Rising Two-State Summit, we are now working to implement the strategies prioritized in the Blue Ridge Rising Action Plan, a guide that highlights the next steps in this collaborative process.

You can help repair the trail that leads to Linville Falls, one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in North Carolina. The Linville Gorge Trail poses serious safety concerns with several downed trees, uneven and unstable terrain, and a steep, sloped tread that is eroding into the Linville River. Your gift will bring in a Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards team to clear trees, install rock structures including stone steps and retaining walls, and create sidehill reinforcements at several major erosion areas. Donate

This season, volunteer rovers will protect peregrine falcons at Devils Courthouse and rare plants at Craggy Gardens and Rough Ridge by educating visitors about these important ecological sites. Your generosity can ensure the rovers are equipped with the supplies they need, including hand-held radios, backpacks, rain gear, and first-aid kits. The remaing goal for this project is $4,000.  Donate

The Parkway’s designers created astounding roadside overlooks as hallmarks of the national park. Today, many are hidden by years of tree growth. With your help, arborist crews will clear overgrown vegetation at designated vistas.

In 2023, the Parkway hosted more than 800 volunteers who dedicated more than 45,000 hours to critical operational support and visitor services in the national park, from repairing trails and protecting rare plants to directing visitors on their journey. These energetic and dedicated volunteers require training, uniforms, and equipment to perform their jobs safely and successfully.

The places you enjoy nature on the Parkway desperately need your help! As the National Park Service faces an astonishing price tag to repair all aspects of the Blue Ridge Parkway, coupled with budget constraints, care of the trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, and overlooks is falling to the bottom of the long list of priorities.

FUNDED!

A rehabilitation project for one of the most popular trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway is underway! A crew with the American Conservation Experience is repairing Craggy Flats Bald Trail, which has become deeply rutted, leading to erosion.

FUNDED!

FUNDED! Thank you for your gifts to make this project a reality. A crew with the American Conservation Experience has just finished most of the repairs at Craggy Flats Bald Trail during a four-week stint.