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The Southern Appalachian region is rich in natural history, wildlife and plants, outstanding recreation opportunities, and strong rural communities. Thanks to unique climate stability over millions of years, the Southern Appalachians have been like a greenhouse for species development, serving as refuge during periods of dramatic climatic change. The region is also unique for its proximity to so many: more than 100 million Americans live within a day's drive.
The close proximity of the Southern Appalachians to so many Americans have made them a target for residential development serving sprawling communities like Atlanta and also second home development and retirement communities. While the region does have considerable public land and other conserved areas, this fragmented system will require additional conservation investments to create large forest blocks sufficient to protect important watersheds, wildlife habitat, recreation areas, and working forests. The region needs both funding from Forest Legacy and the Land and Water Conservation Fund to help meet this challenge. For more information, visit the Southern Appalachian Forest Coalition or the Southern Environmental Law Center.
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