About Us

Background

In 2011, a collaborative group was formed by a variety of forest stakeholders to foster civic engagement and positive guidance in creating the best possible management plan revision for Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests. The 1.1 million acres of National Forest in our region define our landscape and common interest—from water supply to recreation destinations and main street businesses. The new management plan will guide how the forest resources are managed and how they connect to the communities of our region. Today, the group of more than 30 members and affiliates represents a diverse cross-section of public lands interests, including recreation, forest products, cultural heritage, conservation, wildlife, hunting, angling, and other public lands stakeholders. The Partnership also has a much broader mission that goes beyond participation in the forest planning process.

Mission

The Partnership strives to create a lasting voice for innovative management and public investment in the public forests of North Carolina’s mountains for the future.

Vision

We envision a thriving, resilient forest within its natural range of variation, able to support healthy ecosystems, wildlife populations, local economies, and traditional uses. We envision a forest with the connectivity and integrity to remain resilient in the face of the changes and challenges of the future.

Please visit the What We Support page to learn more.