Panthertown Valley, a backcountry area in the Nantahala National Forest located in western North Carolina, attracts a variety of outdoor enthusiasts including hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, rock climbers, photographers, anglers and birders. Encroaching residential development, ecological degradation due to increased recreational use and ensuing conflict over natural resources threaten its future. In addition, the United States Forest Service (USFS) lacks the funding or personnel to manage the 6,300 acres, maintain trails or implement conservation projects. These factors combined have led to the degradation of natural resources.

The Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance (J-MCA) decided to take action by forming a group of concerned citizens called the Friends of Panthertown. The mission of the Friends of Panthertown is to work in partnership with the USFS to preserve & protect the natural resources of Panthertown Valley by providing a base of volunteers and funding for conservation projects that will enhance the experiences of recreational users while also benefiting the natural environment and the community.

Please Support the Friends of Panthertown:
Show your support for Panthertown Valley by becoming a Friend of Panthertown. Your membership will make a difference. Together we can preserve and protect Panthertown Valley by raising funds, increasing public awareness, and providing volunteers for needed projects.

For More Information Contact:
Nina Elliott, Panthertown Coordinator
Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance
348 South Fifth Street
Highlands, NC 28741
828-526-9938 (ext. 258)