The Alliance, along with 400 other local businesses and organizations, has long supported the creation of a Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area to permanently protect the headwaters of the Potomac and James rivers and ensure pristine recreation opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers, hunters, equestrians and many other outdoor enthusiasts. So, in March 2022, we were elated that U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine introduced the Shenandoah Mountain Act to officially create the National Scenic Area.
Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area
The Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area protects over 90,000 acres of the George Washington National Forest in Rockingham, Augusta and Highland counties and incudes more than 150 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The proposal keeps all existing roads open and allows for outdoor recreationists to access and enjoy the area while keeping industrial development out. Additionally, four new wilderness areas will be created to protect places in the forest that are home to endangered and rare wildlife and plant species. In short – not much changes from the Shenandoah Mountain we know and love, and the National Scenic Area designation will ensure that future generations can enjoy the forest as we do today.
Many, many, many folks are to be thanked for their part in getting the Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area this close to reality, but perhaps none more than Lynn Cameron, co-chair of Friends of Shenandoah Mountain. Her patience and persistence helped shape the common-ground proposal and secure the strong support of the many stakeholders who use this exceptional neck of the woods, resulting in the proposed designation now uniquely poised for success in our U.S. Congress – it’s last major hurdle.
Resources
Related News
Senator Hikes in Support of Shenandoah Mountain Bill
May 02, 2022
The scenic area designation creates a special area within the larger national forest where the forests, vistas, and drinking water supplies would be preserved, while logging and industrial development such as gas drilling and pipelines would be prohibited.
Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area
May 31, 2021
The NSA designation will officially communicate to decision-makers that we want the things we cherish about Shenandoah Mountain sustained for generations and protected from threats to the clean air, water and habitat it provides.
A Friend of Shenandoah Mountain
Feb 02, 2019
The Alliance board is proud to join more than 300 local businesses, faith groups and organizations to officially endorse the […]