Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy acquires 48 acres in Roan Highlands

Expansion of Wiles Creek Preserve protects more natural resources in Tennessee

Mar. 14, 2026 at 3:00pm

The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) has acquired 48 additional acres that adjoin and expand the existing Wiles Creek Preserve in the Roan Highlands region of Tennessee. This expansion strengthens the protection of the natural resources and ecosystems in the area.

Why it matters

The Roan Highlands are known for their unique and diverse ecology, including rare plant and animal species. By acquiring more land for the Wiles Creek Preserve, SAHC is able to further safeguard this ecologically significant region from development and ensure its conservation for future generations.

The details

The newly acquired 48 acres expand the existing Wiles Creek Preserve, which SAHC has managed and protected since 2012. The additional land will allow for better stewardship and management of the natural resources, trails, and recreational opportunities in the preserve.

  • SAHC acquired the 48 additional acres in March 2026.
  • SAHC has managed and protected the Wiles Creek Preserve since 2012.

The players

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy

A nonprofit land trust dedicated to protecting the unique ecology and natural resources of the Southern Appalachian region.

Wiles Creek Preserve

A nature preserve managed by SAHC in the Roan Highlands of Tennessee, known for its diverse ecosystems and rare plant and animal species.

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The takeaway

This land acquisition by SAHC demonstrates the organization's ongoing commitment to preserving the ecological integrity of the Roan Highlands, a unique and biodiverse region in Tennessee that is under increasing development pressure.