The forested ridges of the Highlands are the leading edge of the Appalachian Mountains as they pass through the nation’s most densely populated region and provide an essential respite for recreationists and wildlife alike. The Highlands are also notable for their pure water supplies, both in deep aquifers filtered by the region’s unique geology and in surface waters.

• Drinking water for fifteen million Americans in major cities like New York and Philadelphia as well as suburban and rural communities
• Abundant rare and threatened species as well as strong populations of other wildlife
• Outstanding recreation, including the Appalachian Trail, within an hour's drive of 25 million Americans
• Numerous historic sites, including many dating back to the Revolutionary War

The easy proximity of the Highlands to so many Americans makes an almost permanent source of hungry demand for residential and second home development. Some parts of the Highlands are less than one hour from New York City! The US Forest Service found that 5,000 acres of the Highlands are being lost to development each year in just New York and New Jersey alone.

Thanks to the work of the Highlands Coalition in partnership with federal, state, and local officials, the Highlands have seen some of the nation’s greatest conservation successes over the last decade such as the creation of 20,000-acre Sterling Forest State Park (NY) at a cost of $80 million from federal, state, and private sources. Many other conservation projects have occurred across the region with more under development. A continuing stream of funding from traditional programs like Forest Legacy and LWCF along with the funding promised by Congress through the recent Highlands Conservation Act will conserve this important region.

Visit our member group the Highlands Coalition for more information.