Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area
An environmental summary by the ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems class at CSUMB.
Overview
The Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area (AFNHA) was designated by Congress in 2019 and covers approximately one million acres of land in western Maryland and West Virginia. For centuries, the forests of the Appalachian Mountains have sustained local settlers, provided raw materials for America's economic expansion, and inspired visitors. The AFNHA tells the story of the forest legacy and the mountain people who forged it, and focuses on conservation, forestry, cultural heritage, asset-based tourism and community development [1].
Mission
"Work locally to conserve, develop, interpret, and promote a regional network of forest-based resources and experiences in the highlands of West Virginia and Maryland for the enjoyment and appreciation of residents and visitors in order to enhance economic and community development." [1]
Activities
The AFNHA is largely invested in industries dependent on pollinators such as bee-keeping, agriculture and nature-based tourism, so it is involved in the Pollinator Initiative which aims to stabilize and increase pollinator populations [2].
The AFNHA also has a volunteer program which includes activities such as tree planting, species counts, social media outreach, museum guides, musical events, and other opportunities to get involved with the NHA [3].
Partnerships
- National Park Service
- Forest Service Dept. of Agriculture
- Appalachian Regional Commission
- Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation
- See Partner Organizations for full list
Links
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area. [Cited March 2021]
- ↑ Appalachian Forest NHA. Pollinator Initiative. [Cited March 2021]
- ↑ Appalachian Forest NHA Volunteers. [Cited March 2021]
Disclaimer
This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.
