Nonprofits
Mission: To protect valuable natural resources for all generations.
Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust is a nationally accredited 501c3 nonprofit organization that has been conserving ecologically important land on the Plateau since 1909! As one of the oldest land trusts in the nation, and the oldest in the state, HCLT believes that our children deserve fresh air to breathe, clean water to drink, and a healthy landscape to call home; and we believe it is the responsibility of each of us to care for the lands that support these vital ecosystem services.
We accomplish this by working with private landowners to voluntarily conserve their land in perpetuity, by stewarding the lands we have conserved, and by educating and engaging the community we serve to inspire and empower those who love this place to help protect it.
Some of our conserved properties are open for public access such as Sunset Rock and Satulah Mountain Preserve and coming soon to Cashiers, Edward Baker Preserve.
Mission: To stimulate, promote, and fund biological research and education in the southern Appalachians.
The Highlands Biological Foundation (HBF) is dedicated to stimulating, promoting, and funding biological research and education in the Southern Appalachians. Partnering with Western Carolina University’s Highlands Biological Station, HBF educates our community and visitors about the natural wonders of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau through year-round environmental programs for all ages and by sponsoring scientific research. Your contribution directly supports these efforts, enabling them to continue making significant strides in the research and education that contribute to conservation efforts throughout our region.