Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) has purchased 83 acres adjacent to Richmond Hill Park, protecting what the conservancy says is "one of the last undeveloped parcels along the French Broad River in Asheville."

SAHC sought to purchase the land several times since 2013 — and the recent acquisition terminates plans for a hotly contested 690+ unit development that was proposed for the area. The Conservancy will maintain the property before it can be used to expand Richmond Hill Park, growing our city's largest forested park from 180 to 263 acres. Great stat!

The tract will bring Richmond Hill Park from 180 to 263 acres. | Map via SAHC

Reflecting on Helene's ecological impacts, MountainTrue French Broad Riverkeeper Hartwell Carson said the storm has "underscored the importance of protecting our floodplains and forested slopes to soak in and filter stormwater, protect important riparian species, and help reduce future flooding risk."Great quote!

In a press release, MountainTrue's Resilient Forests Director and SAHC Land Protection Committee member Josh Kelly explains that the land is already home to rare species like the mole salamander. Expanding the park's boundary not only protects wildlife habitats but also the French Broad's water quality.

Richmond Hill Park remains closed to the public due to post-Helene dangers. The same goes for the newly protected land as SAHC assesses damages.